Show Placings
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
12th Nov 2022
Judge: Mr Eddie Houston (Earthwise)
I won my first Crufts qualifier at this show 25 years ago and it has always been one of my favourites. It was an honour to be invited to judge and my thanks go to the Scottish Club for their hospitality. Thanks also to my very capable stewards Bill Shorthose and Judy Carr.My sincere thanks to all those who entered and allowed me the privilege of going over their dogs.
Today I found there to be a much greater depth of quality among the bitches with there being many promising puppies and some very nice animals in the upper classes,particularly limit and open. This depth of quality was not apparent in a number of the dog classes although I was pleased with my main winners.
As would be expected there was some diversity in size and type.A number of exhibits of both sexes were up to size- I have big hands so if I find them difficult to span they are probably too big. I found all males to be entire, no serious mouth faults and one kinked tail.Of most concern was the number of dogs with very poor front movement and the number with atypical heads; some too long in muzzle and a few where the muzzle was too short, the latter giving a rather cat like look. Coats and pelts were generally good and a few dogs would benefit from more exercise to improve their muscletone.A fairly minor fault, but one which detracts from the overall outline, were the dogs which carried their tails curled over their backs i.e “gay tailed” as opposed to carrying their tails gaily.
Some of these faults are aesthetic but others such as size and soundness are not and we should be mindful that our breed is “essentially a working terrier.”
Minor Puppy - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
The Birmingham & District Gundog & Terrier Club
19th Nov 2022
Judge: Mrs. Carolyn Richardson (Staynorwood)
Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
West Midlands Terrier Society Open Show
26th Nov 2022
Judge: Dogs Nicola Foster, Bitches Sarah Pateman
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Best Puppy
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Placing Critique
At just 6 months this young dog took my eye as he entered the ring. His feet are small and compact, correct otter head, with keen expression, well developed muzzle, good length of neck, shoulders well laid back, muscular loin, good tail set, correct bend of stifle and hocks well let down. Movement sound and balanced. BOB, BP
Ladies Kennel Association
11th Dec 2022
Judge: Mr John Bainbridge (Risdene)
A very promising entry on paper but unfortunately the weather took its toll !
However I was more than happy with my main winners all were typical of what I look for in a Border Terrier and the proof that careful breeding pays off was demonstrated by the very promising progeny found amongst the youngsters.
As is my approach to critiques, generally the winners in most respects all meet the standard which calls for a working terrier with an otter like head on reasonable length neck set into well laid shoulders, a moderate length body, well ribbed back, strong shortish loin, racy but moderate rear angulation allowing the dog to move with drive, in harsh double coat and with thick pelt. I do not therefore repeat this for each individual dog but I have highlighted the dog’s best points and the reasons for their placings .
Minor Puppy - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Class Critique
These youngsters may change places as they develop, as this was such a promising group of babies.
Newark & DCS Open Show
25th Feb 2023
Judge: Mrs V Mann (Lynsett)
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Placing Critique
9mth Grizzle dog who has a masculine head with good eye shape, strength of muzzle & well set ears. Well angulated all through with a straight front & tight feet. Level topline with well set tail. Coat texture OK, thick loose pelt & spannable. Moved well.
The Southern Border Terrier Open Show
5th Mar 2023
Judge: Mr Matt Smith (Alncroft)
Many thanks to the club for the invitation to judge at their show and for their hospitality. Thank you to my stewards, and the exhibitors for entering under me. I thoroughly enjoyed my day and was pleased with the quality present. Many of the classes were close decisions and coats played a big part in final standings. Whilst I didn’t find any dogs that I couldn’t span, having spent a lifetime around working terriers some of the bitches in particular were on the larger end of the scale for preference.
Best Puppy - Dog
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Placing Critique
Eye catching and mature for his age. Lovely outline, standing on well boned legs with tight feet. Strong in head but not overdone, good neck and shoulder. Well ribbed back with strong loin and a well made rear. Moves with good reach and drive BPD.
Crufts
11th Mar 2023
Judge: Mr David Shields (Wilholme)
To judge Border Terriers at Crufts was both a privilege and a honour and I must thank the Crufts Committee for the appointment to judge the breed at what is the greatest dog show in the world. A big thanks go to the exhibitors from both home and abroad for such a super entry which made for a great days judging with quality in depth in many of the classes. Finally I must thank my two stewards who kept things moving in the ring to allow me to finish judging in good time.
On the day I was looking for a workmanlike dog as the standard asks for but one also must remember that in the show ring you also need that attitude and showmanship to complete the picture. I felt my BOB put up a great show in the Group and was so pleased to see him take Group 2 in a quality line up.
Best Puppy
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Placing Critique
Well balanced for his age and just flows from nose to tail. Lovely head, masculine with good strength, well set ears and such a typical eye and expression. Another who scored in neck and shoulders. Excellent body shape, pleasing depth but easily spanned, good length of rib along with a strong firm loin. Best of hindquarters and the soundest of movers, BPD & BP.
The Border Terrier Club Championship Show
25th Mar 2023
Judge: Mrs Charlotte Archibald (Tweedburn)
What an absolute honour and a privilege to be invited to judge this show, my thanks to the Officers and Committee of the Border Terrier Club, and my two excellent stewards for the day, Judy and Marina.
My sincere thanks also, to ALL the exhibitors for making it truly memorable, with 196 dogs, 233 entries.
Some very close decisions had to be made!
On the down side, I found some very short muzzles and small teeth, and quite a number of filthy teeth!! Temperaments were generally good, there were 2 kinked tails and 1 suspect mouth, a lack of muscle tone and condition in some exhibits, which is essential for a terrier to do it’s job.
That said, it was an absolute joy to see so many super dogs.
Best Puppy - Dog
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Best Puppy
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Placing Critique
beautiful outline on this 10 mths g/t pup, typical head with neatly set ears, good body length the straightest of fronts, excelled in rib, great angulation, good jacket, moved so well both fore and aft. BPD BPIS
Northern Counties Sporting Terrier Association Group Open Show
26th Mar 2023
Judge: Anne Higham (Comberdown)
I would like to thank The Northern Border Terrier Club for nominating me and the committee of the Northern Counties Sporting Terrier Association for inviting me to judge at this wonderful friendly and hospitable show. Thank you to my two stewards who kept everything running smoothly and to the exhibitors for their entry and attendance on such a cold day.
I found all males entire and one level bite.
Best Puppy
Name at show: BPIS, Dassett Igglepiggle
Reserve Best Dog
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Placing Critique
Eye catching well balanced 10 month old grizzle & tan. Moderate head with strength to muzzle and correct scissor bite. Lovely expression with dark eye and well set ears. He had a narrow front with good straight forequarters, small feet with thick pads. Easily spanned. Nice length of rib with strong loin and excellent hindquarters. Moves accurately, with drive and good reach to front. BPD. BP. Pleased to hear he went Best Puppy In Show.
National Terrier Club
1st Apr 2023
Judge: Miss Sarah Dandy (Dandale)
There was a good depth of quality overall across both sexes which proved for good competition and some very close decisions especially in the larger classes. Thank you to all those who accepted my decisions so sportingly. Temperaments were excellent especially the youngsters with the added challenge of the tannoy right overhead. There were some very promising youngsters which is always pleasing and positive to see, and I was delighted with my winning line up in both sexes, with top honours closely contested. I was disappointed that some exhibits who looked so good standing fell apart on the move, there were quite a few upright shoulders and I felt that efficient ground covering movement so essential for the breeds ability to follow a horse was somewhat lacking. It is encouraging to see quite a few younger handlers taking an interest in our breed today, so positive for the future. Thank you to both my excellent stewards who most competently kept the ring moving all day.
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Placing Critique
Very smart youngster of pleasing size with lovely clean outline and super grizzle jacket. Attractive typical head with good eye, expression and strength of muzzle. Nice reach of neck into clean wither, flowing topline, croup and tailset matched with good underline with firm loin and standing on good straight legs with nice bone and tight feet. Very balanced, with a sound forehand and well angulated hindquarters with a good turn of stifle, second thigh and well let down hocks. Moved out well to win class with accurate tracking, striding out and holding his shape in profile, covering the ground with ease. Liked his make and shape, has great potential.
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
8th Apr 2023
Judge: Mrs J Carr (Wreighaugh)
My thanks go to the Committee of the NBTC for their invitation to judge their Open Show. I was honoured to receive this appointment and am incredibly grateful to the exhibitors who gave me such a great entry. It was a most enjoyable day and special thanks go to my Stewards, Andrea Pitt and Mark Atkinson, for keeping me on track and helping the ring to run smoothly.
Reserve Best Dog
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Best Puppy - Dog
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Placing Critique
11 month old grizzle and tan. A beautifully balanced and proportioned dog he presents so well. He has a lovely head with a typical dark eye and keen expression. His muzzle is a good length and he has a correct bite with lovely strong teeth. Very nice length of neck leading to well laid shoulders and strong forelegs with well padded feet. Good depth of chest however easily spannable and a good length of rib. Strong loin and well muscled, but racy, hindquarters. My notes recorded movement as spot on, which it was! Great drive and reach with a lovely topline on the move. He had a good loose pelt and nice tight double coat. BPD, RBD.
East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
16th Apr 2023
Judge: Miss Tracey James (Blackmine)
A bit thank to the committee of EABTC for inviting me to judge their championship show. I really enjoyed my day and when I later looked at the catalogue to see my winners I found it interesting reading, as all my major winners were of similar lines.
Best Opposite Sex Puppy
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Best Puppy - Dog
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Placing Critique
up standing grizzle, Lovely masculine head with a nice eye and expression. Straight front and neat feet. Good shoulders, ribs carried well back. Level topline and good tailset, Good rear angulation. Excellent double coat and loose pelt. His movement really stood out showing a good length of stride. BPD & RBPIS
Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Open Show
22nd Apr 2023
Judge: Debbie Lorraine (Raleniro)
I would like to thank the Club for the invitation to judge this show. It was originally planned for me to judge in April 2020, but this was rearranged due to the pandemic and other outstanding appointments. I would like to thank the Committee for the wonderful hospitality shown to me throughout the day, and thank you to my Steward who kept things running smoothly. I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
I have not judged for just over 4 years, so it was a pleasure to see so many new dogs and new faces around the ring. I was pleasantly surprised by the strength and quality throughout the classes, and pleased to see a return to a more narrow dog, as I was seeing a trend for wide fronts last time I judged.
All dogs were entire and temperaments throughout were good. Bites were correct, with just the odd broken, misplaced or dirty tooth. Coats were, as to be expected, at various stages. There were a few close decisions, and some classes where I wish I had more prize cards to give out. Thank you to all the exhibitors for the privilege of judging your dogs, and also for the sporting way in which they accepted my decisions.
Lastly, can I please apologise for the delay in submitting my critique, as I usually have them done within a day or two of the show. There has been an ongoing issue with the health of a close relative which has taken up a lot of my time, so again, apologies for the delay.
Best Puppy - Dog
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Reserve Best Puppy
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Placing Critique
Almost 12 months grizzle and tan. Quality puppy with superb head and expression, dark eye and good earset. Strong underjaw with correct bite and large teeth. Up to size for me, but easily spanned, with excellent level topline and good tailset. Correct jacket with thick pelt. Moved with ease around the ring showing economy of movement. A very promising dog. BPD and RBPIS.
West of England Ladies Kennel Society
27th Apr 2023
Judge: Mr Mark Walshaw (Janmark)
Many thanks to the officers and committee for the invitation to judge at WELKS, it was quite a few years ago now, as I was due to judge them at the beginning of lockdown. Due to the heavy rain that had fallen over the preceding days, all judging was inside. It was slightly draughty, but we were allocated a double ring, so plenty of space, to see the exhibits stride out. I must thank the two stewards Lynn Jones and Celia Vines who kept the ring flowing beautifully and the exhibitors for making prompt appearances, we did well for time, starting approx. 0930 and finishing around 14:45. I thank all exhibitors for a wonderful entry (123 dogs making 172 entries} for a Thursday in Malvern and appreciate their time and expense for entering under me. There was plenty of quality to choose from and I was happy with my final decisions. Dentition was very good and a pleasure to judge dogs with clean teeth. I did find muscle tone to be poor/average in a lot of the exhibits, which must be one of the key areas for any working terrier. Jackets were mixed as was movement.
Puppy - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Joint Border Terrier Clubs' Championship Show
30th Apr 2023
Judge: Mrs Hilary Gilpin (Otterbobs)
A very big thank you to the SBTC for inviting me to judge this very well run show, to Marina for stewarding and to the exhibitors for entering under me.
Best Puppy - Dog
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Placing Critique
Light grizzle, decent head properties, tidy harsh coat, good bone and level top line, high tail set, lovely length of body with ribs well back, he is up on the legs, hope he has finished growing, shown and handled superbly.
National Dog Show
6th May 2023
Judge: Brigitte Belin Bernaudin (France)
First, I thank the committee for the invitation to judge this prestigious show. Thanks to my stewards for making a super job and keep my judging running smoothly. It was a real honour and privilege as foreign judge and breeder to have the opportunity of this 1st appointment to give CC in my breed, and thank to exhibitors to allow me to go over so many good Border.
Being able in my country to work my dogs, I have been looking for the right conformation as asks in the standard, making dogs able to do their original work underground and was happy many could do so.
Puppy - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
6th May 2023
Judge: Mr Keith Baldwin (Nightstorm)
I would like to thank all the Officers and Committee of the Midland Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge their club open show.
It is now 17 years that I have been judging Border Terriers and it was the 6th August 2011 that I attended the Midland Border Terrier Club breed specific seminar when Jena Tuck was the secretary.
I was very pleased with my entry of 112 quality dogs and bitches, also I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the exhibitors who entered and for allowing me to go over their dogs. They all showed and behaved very well. I can report back to you that you have overall one of the soundest breeds that I have judged.
Last but not least I would like to thank my stewards who did an excellent job keeping everything flowing smoothly between the two shows in the Margaret Everton Pavilion
Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Placing Critique
11 months old grizzle, lovely for type but a taller boy which cost him for me, otter head dark eyes and scissor bite, front legs viewed straight with good bone, spannable body, well put together, lovely mover, I liked him another to watch out for.
The Terrier Club of South Wales Open Show
14th May 2023
Judge: Mr R Wright (Borderexpress)
I would like to start by thanking the Officers and Committee of The Terrier Club Of South Wales for asking me to judge such a well organised and supported show and the wonderful hospitality on the day. Secondly to the exhibitors for the wonderful support and entry on the day of 54 dogs.
I enjoyed having the chance to go over some real quality dogs on the day and in a couple of the classes the placings could easily of been reversed. My Best Of Breed youngster showed himself really well on the day and continued to do so through to the Best In Show line up where he secured the grand honours of being awarded Best In Show by BIS Judge Mark Ord.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: BIS, Dassett Igglepiggle
Best Dog
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Placing Critique
A lovely headed young dog just over 12 months old, keen expression with a lovely dark eye and nice neat ears. He is up on the leg but moves with ease showing a lovely level top line/tail set when stacked and on the move. Flows from his neck into neat laid back shoulders and a lovely rib, he was set down in full jacket today but looked the part to go on and secure Best Dog and Best of Breed later going on to take Best In Show – well done.
Blackpool & District Canine Society
25th Jun 2023
Judge: Mrs Jayne Gillam (Orenberg)
Many thanks to the officers and committee for inviting me to judge Border Terriers at Blackpool & District Canine Society Championship show. Grateful thanks must go to my very efficient steward Gisela Duran who did an excellent job in making sure everything ran like clockwork. Finally thank you to the exhibitors for giving me such an excellent entry of 142 dogs making 183 entries, the largest entry across all breeds on the day. It really was a privilege to go over such a large entry of dogs and I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
The size of dogs has always been a perennial topic, but I was pleased to say overall, many of the dogs were of correct size on this occasion, with very few oversized dogs and only the odd one or two I couldn’t span. Bites were good and only an odd one with teeth out of line, although a few had broken teeth, quite a few had dirty teeth and some had small teeth which is something I really don’t like to see on, essentially a working terrier. It was good to find some really lovely tails, with not too many long thin, spindly tails we have seen in the past, although I was surprised to find four kinked tails in the entry.
Overall I thought it was a good entry, I found some quality exhibits and I was very pleased with my winners, and in particular will watch the progress of my puppy and junior placings with interest.
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Placing Critique
G&T. A taller rangier type than my winner lacking in top coat which made him look bare. Narrow throughout he was easy to span, racy hindquarters and well let down hocks, held his topline in profile movement, would prefer a shorter tail.
Graduate - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Windsor Championship Dog Show
29th Jun 2023
Judge: Professor S P Dean (Tyrian)
My thanks to Windsor Dog Show for the judging appointment. Delayed by Covid, it is a sensible moment to retire from judging at Championship level, especially as the day was very enjoyable and a fine memory to end with. It was in fact a superb entry of high quality border terriers and my thanks to all the exhibitors, especially those who travelled long distances.
It was a delight when my BOB, Ch Otterbobs Tolsen, won the terrier group and an additional pleasure when my Best Veteran, Ch Cynetkoy Pillow Talk, placed third in the Veteran Group. Overall the borders proved to be sound and it was particularly enjoyable to find several dogs with large, strong teeth. Many were in a fit condition with firm muscle and active drive on the move. The majority had good shoulders coupled with hind quarters that looked capable of a day’s work. This correct construction translated into to good movement. The Border Terrier should remain a workmanlike terrier and future breeders need to keep that in mind.
The top decisions were decided by some of these less obvious merits and indeed my personal preferences but, in the end, I was pleased to see an entry of border terriers with so much quality. This bodes well for the future and has left me with memories of a most enjoyable day.
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Placing Critique
13 mo. Close up to 1. Similar type, correctly made on racy lines. Short on coat today which spoiled his outline. Narrow front and moved well
Class Critique
Top three all very good junior dogs
Leeds Championship Show
29th Jul 2023
Judge: Mr Brian Aubrey (Jenabeck)
Thank you all for a wonderful entry, I had to make some difficult choices on the day, but as always, I judge the dog on the day friend or foe and not what the dog as done in the past or what it will do in the future.
a few things did concern me on the day (1 ) so Many dirty teeth, (2) a few unfit dogs due to being overweight, (3) and the most concerning is short legs on one or two of the borders,
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Placing Critique
What a stunning otter type head on this young man very strong underjaw, straight front good bone, correct in Shoulders, leading in good length of neck, easily spanned, very bright future for him, final points for his JW today, Congratulations,
Paignton Championship Show
5th Aug 2023
Judge: Colin Powell (Bowtman)
RDCC
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Placing Critique
A top size dog of quality and type, clean expression and a correct bite, good in neck, shoulders and tight feet, easily spanned, good angulations. Fit and hard and Racy. in descent coat today, expertly handled moved effortlessly covering the ground with ease, Res D.CC.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
6th Aug 2023
Judge: Mr. Bob Wright (Totherend)
It was a real honour to judge my home club’s show and my thanks go to a great committee for the opportunity and the way they run the club with all hands to the wheel. Richard Wright and Sharon Pickering had my back and have my appreciation for a great day’s stewarding.
I was disappointed in the early dog classes where what initially looked like an impressive line-up failed to materialise once on the table or on the move. Movement was a weak spot for a surprisingly large number of exhibits, especially front movement. There were three poor mouths and one exhibit that couldn’t be spanned but lots of good pelts, coats and neat feet. However long tails are becoming more common and a true carrot tail is about as rare as hen’s teeth. I was fascinated by some handlers interpretation of a triangle, suffice to say it’s a good job it wasn’t a maths exam.
Once again there were only two CCs available which is a great shame when there are so many who warrant them. I can only sympathise with those who went home empty handed. It was most likely a reflection of the strength of the classes rather than their standing. The bitch classes were especially strong with at least six exhibits worthy of much more than I had available to offer. When it came to the line ups I was clearly torn and had to be really picky to get to a decision but in the end I was pleased with all the winners.
Whilst there is still much that can be done to improve some aspects of the breed there is a lot to be proud of with some really stunning exhibits out there.
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Placing Critique
A well presented stand out dog with much to praise in head, coat, construction and movement, would have to be picky to find anything to criticize.
Bournemouth Championship Show
13th Aug 2023
Judge: Ms Tina Jones (Otterholme)
My thanks go to the committee of Bournemouth Championship Show for inviting me to award tickets for the first time, it was a very special day.
Special thanks to my stewards Gentle Lowe and Brian Aubrey for doing such a sterling job, allowing me to focus on the task in hand.
I was delighted with the entry that awaited me, a huge thank you to the exhibitors for giving me the privilege to go over their dogs, this was a real honour and the sporting way they accepted my decisions, on the whole by most exhibitors.
I was told many years ago, by someone well respected in the breed to judge with the hands, not with the eyes, never did this ring true as today. Some dogs I have admired from the ringside, didn’t live up to expectations, whilst others that hadn’t previously caught my eye, surprised me and did.
Being the daughter of a hunt terrier man I could get no better grounding in the requirements of an earth dog, these were the days long before quad bikes, terriers would be expected to be on their feet from the moment hounds drew off until close of the hunting day, working in landscapes not dissimilar to that of that hunt the breed first originated from.
l tried to look subjectively at the exhibit before me to see if they had the confirmation and condition to undertake such duties. I was surprised how quite a number were difficult to span and far too deep in chest and too wide in front and came up heavy, lacking the narrowness to go to ground, a distinct disadvantage in the working arena, legs bend, chests don’t.
I was finding rear movement was better than front, but more than a few lacked the drive that I looked for with elevated front action that indicates an upper arm that is shorter than ideal.
I look to see feet that are tight with a good thick pad so vital in an earth dog, many were lacking in this important trait.
I found temperaments superb throughout the day, dentition was questionable on several exhibits and all dogs entire.
A plea to exhibitors if you bait them on the table, that is fine if they look hypnotically at the treat, but on several occasions, owners were wrestling with their dogs trying to get at the treat, making it difficult to assess them.
I am always mindful to judge fit for function, and I was happy that my winners fitted that bill and all sporting decent jackets and pelts and meeting my interpretation of the breed standard.
I was delighted to see my BOB going on to third in the terrier group and my BP winning the terrier puppy group.
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle JW
Placing Critique
Stood alone, but worthy of his place. Presents a balanced overall picture possesses a lovely typical head with flat skull, keen expression, good strength to jaw, with good fill under the eye. Clean shoulders that flowed into a pleasing firm topline and well muscled quarters, finished off with neat well padded feet. Presented in a decent jacket.
The Welsh Kennel Club Championship Show
19th Aug 2023
Judge: Jane Morton Shaw (Fehmarn)
I would like to thank the WKC committee for inviting me to judge at this lovely show. It was very well organised with a super friendly atmosphere.
Thank you to all the exhibitors for your entry & accepting my decisions so graciously.
I thoroughly enjoyed my day, but I have to apologise for the late start! I’m always super early for everything, and had arrived on the showground by 8am. Unfortunately my watch battery ran out at 8.20 and I was mortified when I realised it had stopped and to find out that the time was 9.35!!!
I was very pleased to see my BOB, BPIB & BVIB shortlisted in their groups, with Veteran going on to Group 3.
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle JW
Placing Critique
Up to size but hopefully won’t grow on more but spannable. Lovely type. Good angulation front and rear, making him well balanced with excellent length of rib. Liked his head & expression, good bite, well set on tail off a level top line. Moved well
Driffield Championship Show
26th Aug 2023
Judge: Mrs. Liz Wright (Totherend)
My thanks to Driffield Championship Dog Show Society for the invitation to judge today and thanks to my stewards Peter and Lesley Armstrong, who kept the ring running smoothly. Thanks also to the exhibitors for allowing me to go over their dogs. Front movement in the breed still needs some improvement, but overall I had lots of quality exhibits. Bites were good and only one kinked tail.
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle JW
Placing Critique
Well turned out grizzle dog, narrow throughout, with slightly deeper chest, good coat, masculine head, moved well.
City of Birmingham Championship Show
2nd Sep 2023
Judge: Mrs K Wilkinson (Otterkin)
Thank you to City of Birmingham for the invitation to judge this show, for the very large ring provided to the breed and to all the exhibitors who entered under me – I was very pleased with the overall quality of the entry of 122 dogs making 144 entries in these days of falling entries, with very few absentees (16 from “new dogs” by my count).
The ring stewards did an excellent job of keeping everything running smoothly – so thank you to John Gardner and Ken Francis.
I would like to send my best wishes to Anna Duxbury (Ridgebow) who had initially been under contract to judge this as her very first Championship Show. Having seen Anna judge at the Border Terrier Club’s Open show in February 2022, I know she is a very experienced and knowledgeable judge as well as an excellent breeder and hope in time that she is able to take on another Championship Show appointment in the future. I had originally been invited to judge this show in 2024 and had sent my acceptance letter, but when the Secretary contacted me, I agreed to bring forward the appointment to 2023.
I have taken the name/s of the owner/s and the dogs’ names direct from the catalogue. Some may have other owners or Kennel Names added, or awards such as Ch or JW added now, but I must use the details from the catalogue.
*Handlers* – please do not stuff food/tubes of treats into your dogs’ mouths just before the judge needs to look at their dentition. Those who stood behind their dogs and held the lead, I had no problem examining their dogs’ mouths, but a small number of others who were stuffing food into their dog’s mouth as I approached, once they moved away, some dogs were up on their hind legs trying to get more food/treats from you. I had to examine the rest of the dog then come back and look in the mouth again when the dogs were not fidgeting about looking for food. If you are doing it to avoid the dentition being checked, it won’t work as a judge will just come back to it!
It was quite hot in the hall. Kudos to all the dogs as they were not put off by the noise made when judge and/or handler stood on whatever was under the carpet making a “clunk” noise. I found when spanning dogs, almost all of them were hot underneath. Never felt that before, even when judging in 90 degree heat outside in America, so just be aware that your dog may be getting overheated.
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle
Placing Critique
Outstanding dog who stood away even in this good class. Lovely otter head with ears dropping forward close to the cheek and a lovely dark eye. An excellent mover. Well off for bone but not overdone in any way. A workmanlike dog with a harsh dark grizzle coat and good undercoat. Tail straight off the top of the back.
Class Critique
A strong class of good dogs, especially the first
Richmond Championship Show
8th Sep 2023
Judge: Mr Tim Ball (Kaitak)
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle JW
Placing Critique
16 mth old grizzle who appealed for type and presents a super outline with each part flowing smoothly into the next. Quality head with moderate breadth to skull, short strong muzzle, dark expressive eyes, good ears for size and set and correct dentition. Ribs extend well back and can be spanned. Harsh jacket and pleasing pelt. Soundly constructed all through, standing just right in front on good feet and moved true both fore and aft. Very well handled.
The Southern Border Terrier Club Open Show
16th Sep 2023
Judge: Mr Robert Brewster (Stowthorney & Breckgreen)
I would like to thanks the officers and committee of The Southern Border Terrier Club for giving me the honour of judging their Open Show. I first signed the contract for the show in 2017, but due to Covid and the Lockdown I have only just fulfilled my judging appointment. Whist remembering those who are no longer with us due to the Covid Pandemic. I was happy with my entry and would like to also thank the exhibitors for entering under me and thank them all for taking my decisions, some of which were difficult, in a sportsmanlike way. I found most exhibits to be in good order, but I was quite worried that I found some younger exhibits with a build-up of scale on their teeth. This should be addressed as soon as possible. I was also delighted with a young exhibitor, attending her first show, on a whole handling her young dog so well whilst full of nerves and inexperience. We need to encourage these youngsters as they are the custodians of our breed
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle JW
Placing Critique
Grizzle dog with a lovely head and dark eye. Correst bite. Nicely angulated front and rear. Harsh double jacket. Good top line which he held on the move.
Darlington Championship Show
17th Sep 2023
Judge: Mrs D Bullen (Fevstone)
I would like to thank the committee for inviting me to judge for the second time. I had a good entry of 125 with a few absentees as is usual, the dogs were of varying types and sizes which is to be expected. The ones that were unspannable aren’t fit for function as they fall at the first hurdle so to speak.
There are quite a lot creeping into the breed of late which lack power in the foreface. Falling away below the eye with a foreign expression. Also lacking in underjaw. Again a weakness in the breed which needs addressing or we will lose these qualities essential to work. A lot now have too short an upperarm which is vital in construction as it propels the dog forward as he should cover the ground effortlessly striding out. Not Pitter patter slowly. On a more positive note I found a lot of quality true to type borders that were a pleasure to judge. Effortless free movement which is essential. I’m sure the breed will go on to have a bright future if we all keep to the breed type.
Junior - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle JW
Stafford & District Canine Society Open Show
23rd Sep 2023
Judge: Miss G Lowe (Rockslade)
I would like to thank the committee for inviting me to judge at their show for my first judging appointment. The show was well run, friendly and I received a warm welcome upon arrival. I would also like to thank all those who entered under me especially in the current climate with travelling costs.. A big thank you to my very capable steward Richard Wright for ensuring that the ring ran well.
I was pleased with my entry and there were some quality exbibits in attendance. I did find a number of exhibits to be short on undercoat and one untidy mouth. Some long nails and dirty teeth which need addressing.
Yearling /
Third Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle JW
Class Critique
The first 3 were excellent quality exhibits and the most difficult class of the day
Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Championship Show
30th Sep 2023
Judge: Mrs J Guvercin (Glebeheath)
Thank you to the committee for this appointment, everyone worked hard to make it an enjoyable day. This venue always has a super atmosphere, however, the ring is too small really to see outlines, being far too near the dogs and side profile movement is very difficult to see, let alone for the dogs to perform really well. Many moved poorly, not liking the smooth mats and although I had to judge them on this today, I think most would move much better outside in a big grass ring.
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle JW
Placing Critique
upstanding mature looking grizzle with very masculine head, powerful jaw and big teeth. Nice neck into topline and tailset. Excellent rear quarters, racy and well muscled without being overly bulky and stands on good feet .Nicely balanced with good coat and pelt which was very well presented. Moved well on this unforgiving floor.
South Wales Kennel Association
13th Oct 2023
Judge: Mr W Shorthose (Cundytyke)
I think hind movement has generally improved though the same cannot be said for fronts. Most were shown in good coat and only one exhibit was clearly of poor temperament.
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle JW
Placing Critique
Big enough but spannable, deep enough in body but narrow, good hindquarters, topline and tailset, really good coat..
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
4th Feb 2024
Judge: Lesley Armstrong-Rodgers (Atron/Scottsway)
It was a great honour to be invited to judge The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show and therefore my thanks go to the Committee for the opportunity. I thoroughly enjoyed my day at this friendly well run show. It was advantageous in having such a good sized ring in which to watch the dogs move. Borders need room to get into their stride and show their effortless movement and profile when viewed in side gait.
A special thank you also to Richard and Sharon, my two stewards for keeping things running smoothly. It is always a great help for any judge to be blessed with competent stewards. Finally a big thank you to all the Exhibitors for bringing their dogs under me for my opinion and for accepting my decisions with good grace. As always coats were at differing stages, often reflected in the placings, but coats do come and go, construction does not !. Overall I found temperaments excellent, as well it should be, which bodes well for the breed.
Best Dog
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle JW
Reserve Best In Show
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle JW
Best Opposite Sex
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle JW
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle JW
Placing Critique
A lovely profile on this young Grizzle and Tan dog who may well be up to size but certainly fills the eye on first appraisal. Owns a lovely otter shaped head with dark correctly shaped eye. Large teeth with a correct scissor bite. Stands on a straight front with neat feet. Ample length of neck leading into well placed shoulders, spannable, with a thick pelt. Well muscled hind quarters and a super level topline finished off with a neat tailset Shown in a good jacket today. His true movement covering the ground effortlessly and with enthusiasm showing he could quite easily follow a horse. Delighted to award him BEST DOG and eventually RESERVE BEST IN SHOW.
Class Critique
A trio of very nice dogs.
The Southern Border Terrier Club Open Show
3rd Mar 2024
Judge: Miss Nicola Foster (Thozow)
It was a great honour to be invited to Judge a Border Terrier Club Open show so I would like to thank the Southern Club for this opportunity. It was a day I had been looking forward too, so I would also like to thank the exhibitors for their entries, allowing me to access their dogs and for accepting my decisions. I was most grateful to my stewards Sian McKay & Marina Fleming who kept the ring running efficiently, and also live streamed the challenges and BIS.
Best Dog
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle JW
Reserve Best In Show
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle JW
Best Opposite Sex
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle JW
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle JW
Placing Critique
One I have judged before and how he has matured. He has the correct otter head with keen expression, well developed muzzle, and ears fold level with skull. Narrow throughout with a good length of neck, ribs carried well back, a muscular topline and racy hindquarters. Pelt thick and pliable and is presented in an immaculate double hard jacket. He is spannable and this is when you notice how balanced he is. He moves effortlessly covering the ground with ease. BD, RBIS.
Crufts
10th Mar 2024
Judge: Mrs Lesley Gosling (Akinside)
A tremendous entry of 275 Borders ( 25 absentees on the day)to enjoy handling, judging and placing. I must extend my appreciation to my two valiant stewards for their patience and skill in keeping classes moving. Thank you all.
I do believe our breed is changing, but in subtle ways. The lack of opportunities for true terrier work below ground for some Borders has been replaced by agility and other energetic pursuits, but lack of hard muscle tone has produced a ‘softer’ body on some exhibits. Some feet are slacker, pads are more spread and thinner and some fronts are wide. Movement is not always positive and a ‘driving’ action is lacking. Size is fluctuating too. We have a ‘working’ breed - let’s ensure that features defining the breed are not lost, i.e. ‘spannability’; a hard, harsh top coat and soft protective undercoat (not enough of those today); a dark, expressive eye, a broad skull and strong quarters – ‘the engine is at the back!’. Heads generally were good, but some bitch heads veered towards coarseness.
One thing not lost is the Border’s kind temperament – curious, interested and ready for anything.
Yearling - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle JW
National Terrier Club
6th Apr 2024
Judge: Miss Elspeth Jackson (Clipstone)
Thanks to the National Terrier Club for their invitation to judge at this prestigious show and to the exhibitors who did me the honour of judging their dogs. I was lucky to have two efficient stewards who kept things running smoothly, thank you Laura and Dave.
The entry showed a good depth of quality. In many classes the places were hotly contested with decisions needing to be made on the narrowest of margins. I was very pleased to find that there were some good coats on thick pelts and the nice thick short tails which set off a good border so well.
Yearling - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Dassett Igglepiggle JW
Placing Critique
Smart masculine dog presented in super order. Super neck and good shoulder. Deep in body, ribs of good shape and pleasing loin. Good strong head with broad skull, strong muzzle and dark eye.
