First Place in Post Graduate - Bitch, 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 feminine bitch stood out for quality, balance and moderation. She had a lovely otter like head, with a dark eye, neat ear and short, strong muzzle. A good reach of neck flowed into a level top line, with a firm loin and well set tail.She had straight front legs and small neat feet. Narrow throughout, she was fairly long, with her ribs carried well back. She was soundly constructed, with correct angulation and showed with presence and confidence. However, rather excitable and unsettled on the move today. Presented in harsh, dense coat with a thick pelt.