First Place in Minor Puppy - Dog, Judge: Mr David Hunt (Ottaswell)
Thank you to the committee of Darlington Dog Show society for inviting me to judge, with special thanks to my sole steward who worked tirelessly throughout the day to keep both me organised and the ring running smoothly. My appreciation also to the exhibitors for their good entry despite having to face the often long and tiring journey home on a Friday afternoon. Thankfully the weather remained dry for my judging however with a constant strong wind blowing this proved testing for exhibitors handling dogs in full coat.
The ring was large with lots of room for the dogs to move, although the grass could have been cut much shorter. In general all exhibits were in reasonable condition, but as always I was surprised to find 3 dogs with incorrect bites being shown at this level. A working terrier should have coat on the undersides but I was surprised to find some with bellies that had obviously been trimmed/shaved to enhance their underlines. No problem temperaments.
8 mth blue & tan well grown for his age, with a promising future. His well proportioned head has a large nose, large teeth and well placed eyes. The head is carried on a good soundly constructed front with straightest of legs and best of neat tidy feet. Moved well with elbows well in holding his topline and tail correctly. Well handled as one expects from his owner. Close decision for best puppy in breed. BEST PUPPY DOG