First Place in Limit - Dog, Judge: Siân McKay (Redesholt)
I would like to thank the London and Home Counties Terrier Club for affording me the opportunity to judge at this year’s Premier Open Show, and to my very capable steward Sharon, who kept things moving in the ring.
Regarding the exhibits: I had some lovely examples that exemplified what I look for in a Border Terrier. The stamp of the breed the head- its proportions such, that it is capable of doing its job underground, and a body constructed to deal with the terrain and weather of Northumberland; so, in good fit hard working condition.
I did not find any suspect mouths and no kinked tails.
This dog caught my eye as soon as he entered the ring with his self-confident yet understated showmanship, temperament, movement around the ring and profile. Hands on he did not disappoint. Superb otter head with a relaxed but keen expression, whisper of a stop; correct, for me, length of muzzle, inferring powerful jaws, housing as evidenced, big teeth. Great flow of neck into correctly laid back shoulders, narrow throughout and correctly proportioned body that was of good bone and in fit, hard condition. He maintained a level topline whilst on the move and standing…strong carrot like tail, and had the best reach, drive and coat and pelt on the day, so I showed no hesitation in awarding him Best Dog and Best of Breed. Pleased to watch him go on to be placed Group 3 in Show.