First Place in Post Graduate - Dog, Judge: Mrs C E Sansom (Tarkaswell)
I would like to thank the committee and members of the Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cheshire border terrier club for the invitation to judge at this friendly club show. My stewards Tracey Anscombe and Sian Mckay were very efficient and kept the day running smoothly. Thank you to the exhibitors for a lovely entry and accepting my decisions in a sporting manner. It was a privilege to judge your dogs.
I had some quality borders to go over, and my decisions reflected my interpretation of the breed standard, on the day.
Some exhibits lacked the typical otter head, moderately broad with a short, strong muzzle and keen expression, which is definitive in our breed. Coats were generally good, harsh and dense with thick pelts, but several exhibits would have benefitted from having their feet trimmed. I found no kinked tails, dentition was generally good and all dogs were entire.
There was a lovely atmosphere, especially during the challenges, and I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
This grizzle and tan dog stood out for balance and moderation of construction. He could undoubtedly do the job that he was bred for.He had a masculine head with a dark eye, keen expression, strong muzzle and large teeth. He was narrow throughout, with a good shoulder placement and his ribs carried well back. His loin was firm and flowed into a well set carrot like tail. He was presented in a harsh, dense coat with a thick, loose pelt. Correct construction with good angulation, enabled him to move easily with purpose and drive, absolutely true fore and aft. Pleased to award him BD and BIS.