Second Place in Graduate, Judge: Siân McKay (Redesholt)
Firstly, my thanks, as ever, goes to the committee and helpers of the shows whose efforts cannot be underestimated. Today it was the turn of Yeovil and District Canine Society whose sterling efforts despite the persistent and often heavy downpour,resulted in a well-run show with ever helpful and smiling faces- Bravo! Secondly my appreciation to Jan Russell de Clifford whose stalwart efforts as steward in our ring for the whole (freezing) day resulted in an efficient and well run ring. My thanks must also go to the exhibitors who primarily turned up on the most inclement of days, and accepted my decisions with good grace and not a little humour as the heavens opened.
The wind and rain did influence the performance of many of the exhibits unfortunately; but some rose to the challenge, and several were simply oblivious to it. Coats, as ever, were in various stages of growth; some great movement noted in many of the exhibits; all teeth clean and with correct bites and no kinked tails to note; feet on the whole were tidy and correct.
15-month-old grizzle and tan dog another of good size and proportions. He has a strong Otter-like head with keen expression; moderate stop and large teeth in a scissor bite. Straight front; good for bone – narrow throughout with ribs well back, easily spanned, and strong loin. Good pelt with pin wire coat. Correct shoulder placement and turn of stifle, with racy hindquarters that displayed good second thigh and well let down hocks. Movement not as assured as 1 today.