First Place in Puppy, Judge: Siân McKay (Redesholt)
My thanks to the committee for the opportunity to judge a lovely quality entry of Border Terriers. This is a friendly and welcoming show and I was ably assisted by a super Steward who kept the ring running smoothly and efficiently.
The acoustics of the building today did have a detrimental effect on some of the exhibits; but of course, it is impossible to find a perfect space for every dog to show themselves at their best.
As mentioned I was honoured to have a super selection of Borders to go over today; especially the Puppy class where many were exhibiting for the first time.
I found all male dogs intact, and no kinked tails and one wry mouth. Coats were in all stages of growth today, and a few lacked a good visible covering of undercoat which naturally affected placings. Temperaments were all excellent and the ‘glint ‘ in the eye that I would like to see- inquisitive and game that looked ready for a day‘s work, which in turn reflected in their positive movement- was pleasingly there with all my main line up; as was the ‘stamp’ of the breed the otter- like head with correct proportions in the head to allow the powerful jaws to do their job, whilst standing on- most importantly, small thickly padded cat-like feet.
10-month-old G & T dog with a super otter-like head with dark keen expression, strong muzzle and large teeth. Narrow throughout and presented in a great thick coat and with a good loose pelt. Loved his underline and topline that flowed from straight legs and correct feet with a good width at brisket and correspondingly correct proportions between withers to allow good reach, and then through his strong loin to his rear assembly. Good turn of stifle and well let down hocks and second thigh enabled him to move efficiently and with purpose around the ring. I was pleased to award him Best Puppy in Breed – He also continued on to be placed 1st. in Puppy Stakes and then to complete his day Best Puppy in Show from a full line up- Congratulations!