Second Place in Open - Dog, Judge: Mr David Hunt (Ottaswell)
It was a tremendous honour and a great privilege some 3 years ago to be asked by the Kennel Club to judge at Crufts in 2025. Having attended and enjoyed this show over many years it felt strange to be finally standing centre stage.
My grateful thanks to the exhibitors and handlers from both home and overseas for giving me a fantastic entry of 249 dogs making 279 entries. I wish to sincerely thank my 2 stewards Ken Francis and Bill Ashworth for organising the ring and me so efficiently and thus avoiding any delays between classes in what was a long and tiring day starting at 08.00. Thanks also to Joyce Martin for the excellent photographs.
I was looking for an exhibit that best fitted the standard and most importantly that they were spannable. With kennel cough widespread throughout the country I requested handlers show me the exhibits teeth to avoid possible further spread. On the day I tried to ensure that each dog was given equal time on the table and moving around the ring.
The general condition of most exhibits was fine with coats as usual at all stages and some appearing to have been stripped the day before. Movement was generally good at the rear but less so in front where several were loose and moving in various directions usually caused by poor shoulder construction. Feet were disappointing in some exhibits being spread and well down on their pasterns with thin pads. I found 2 kinked tails and in the mouths 2 undershot plus several with missing and misaligned teeth. All males were entire. Temperaments were good throughout the day.
I was pleased with my final lineups and delighted to see my Best of Breed make the shortlist and be awarded Group 4
So much to like about this well known dog, a fine example of the breed, who has quality in all departments. Beautiful otter head of excellent proportions. A great neck flows into a deep, narrow body well angulated at both ends, with excellent topline and tail set. In super fit working condition he spans with ease and moves with purpose both to and fro. He is alert and at one with his handler. In a better double coat than when I last judged him, being harsh with a pliable pelt. Awarded him The RDCC just preferring the movement in profile around the ring of the winner.