Second 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.
Another a very good blue and tan with a true border head. A dark eye, keen expression and plenty of strength in the under jaw. A straight well boned front, with the best of tight feet. Ribs carried well back, with a level top line with his tail straight off the back. Very good hind quarters and bend of stifle. Super harsh double coat with a loose thick pelt. Unlucky to meet 1st place today. RDCC.