First Place in Open - Dog, Judge: Mr Graham Pickering (Picer)
I would like to thank the committee of Ladies Kennel Association for their kind invitation to the judge the breed at this well organised show and their generous hospitality. It was a real honour and I thoroughly enjoyed my day. I would also like to thank my stewards Tony and Katherine for keeping things running smoothly throughout the day. Thank you also, to all the exhibitors for their entries and the sporting way that they took the decisions that I made.
As for the dogs – as expected, coats varied, all the dogs were entire, in clean condition and well behaved. There were a couple of dogs with teeth not set square in the jaw or with teeth out of line. I was looking for dogs of the correct size, with a typical otter head, a harsh double coat and a thick pelt, plenty of muscle, the correct amount of bone, and shown in hard condition. I also expect to see dogs that move true and with ease around the ring and look physically capable of doing a days’ work, whether they get the opportunity or not. All my winners had these attributes and as often happens many deserving exhibits went without cards on the day.
What you expect in an Open class – a super class with dogs that all looked the part. Dogs worthy of places unfortunately had to go cardless.
A blue and tan dog that I have judged before and he didn’t disappoint again. He has good head, keen expression, strong jaw and correct scissor bite with big white teeth. The straightest of front running into smooth shoulders – no hint of any coarseness. The right size, with correct bone, a strong loin and a well set tail. Good hind quarters, stood on small tight cat like feet. Shown in the best of harsh pin wire double coats. Moved with ease around the ring. Pleased to award him DCC and BoB.