First Place in Limit - Dog, Judge: Mrs B Jackson (Clipstone)
I thoroughly enjoyed judging at Paignton Championship Show. The new venue (well, new to me) was very pleasant and the show was efficiently run by the helpful and friendly committee. I had an excellent entry which contained lots of quality dogs to choose from. Some classes were, however, a real mix of types, again the Fox Terrier type with high ear carriage are appearing, as are those with almost “hound like” ears, far too large and which ruin the head. Ultimately I judged to my interpretation of the Standard. I like a dog to be a real stallion dog and a bitch, his feminine counterpart. I do not like bitchy dogs and masculine bitches. I was incredibly pleased with my winners, neither of which I have judged before and who to my mind are excellent examples of the breed, both home bred too, not bought in.
Although in a full coat, this dog simply could not and should not be overlooked. His coat was harsh, thick and correct with the most amazing pelt. He is a real stallion dog who simply screamed “dog” to me, stunning head and expression, one of those heads you held in your hands and it made the hairs on the back of your neck stand up, yes, this is a real dog. He is easily spanned, although the coat made him look heavy, he is not. He is perfectly balanced. Good, strong, white teeth in correct jaw. Neck flowing into correctly placed shoulders which allowed him to cover the ground effortlessly. Each stride was strong and true, driven by a great rear action which so many lack these days. He reminded me so much of a dog I used to show years ago. The best of ribs leading into a wonderfully strong loin, good level topline and fabulous tail. I was delighted to be able to judge this dog and had no hesitation in giving him his first Dog CC. He is a credit to his breeders/owners