Crufts (06-03-2025)

First Place in Open - Bitch, Judge: Mr David Hunt (Ottaswell)

Show Critique:

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

Placing Critique:

A bitch from the very top of the tree who fits the standard so well with everything in moderation and nothing in excess. So good to handle, has a classic otter head in correct proportions, good bite of large teeth, strong muzzle of good depth little stop and nicely shaped skull with well placed ears to give a keen varminty expression. Ideal neck length, straight narrow front with legs well off for bone she stands on tight well padded feet. Her front construction is excellent with good return of upper arm and a well angulated rear to match. Her ribs are carried well back and span easily. In the thickest of harsh double coats with handfuls of pelt she moves with ease to reach out in front and drive from behind using her fit condition. Whenever you look at her she appears balanced whether standing or on the move. Could not be denied the BCC today and unlucky to meet the dog in top form.