Third Place in Open - Dog, Judge: Mr David Shields (Wilholme)
To judge Border Terriers at Crufts was both a privilege and a honour and I must thank the Crufts Committee for the appointment to judge the breed at what is the greatest dog show in the world. A big thanks go to the exhibitors from both home and abroad for such a super entry which made for a great days judging with quality in depth in many of the classes. Finally I must thank my two stewards who kept things moving in the ring to allow me to finish judging in good time.
On the day I was looking for a workmanlike dog as the standard asks for but one also must remember that in the show ring you also need that attitude and showmanship to complete the picture. I felt my BOB put up a great show in the Group and was so pleased to see him take Group 2 in a quality line up.
Excellent Border who completed a line up of top class dogs all of whom were a pleasure to judge. Presents the best of outlines both stood and on the move. Pleasing head with a lovely dark eye and the best of expressions. Good reach of neck set in well placed shoulders. Firm topline that he holds on the move and good width of hindquarters. Presented on the day in the best of coats. Sound positive mover. Still relatively young and I feel there is still more to come as he matures.