First Place in Limit, 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.
This 3-year-old G & T bitch caught my eye as soon as she stepped in the ring. She looked as if she could work the second she left the show; with super static and kinetic balance, and apparently effortless movement. Excellent varminty gaze out of dark well-placed eyes; plenty of fill under her eyes with a strong but not coarse or exaggerated jaw. Straight front with well laid back and in shoulders, flowing onto a good length back with strong loin and great racy hindquarters that drove her on with complementary reach fore. Tight coat over thick skin and good pelt and a carrot like tail. Pleased to place her Reserve Best in Breed.