Manchester Dog Show Society (20-01-2011)

First Place in Minor Puppy - Dog, Judge: Professor S P Dean (Tyrian)

Show Critique:

A curate’s egg day with some great border terriers and some disappointments too. My winners were typical and not only had the heads to win but moved soundly and had the coat and pelt so desirable in the breed. On the downside, although bites were generally good, there are too many with pathetically weak teeth and several with shoulders set too far forward so they looked narrow but had no fore-chest at all. A terrier needs fore-feet under its chest.
I was looking for borders that were soundly made and could therefore cover ground and I found them but there are some with short choppy actions. However I do not intend to be too pessimistic for the breed put on a good show today and there were some really promising youngsters in the puppy classes. Thank you to those who exhibited dogs with the typical thick harsh coat and pelt, these were all much appreciated.

Placing Critique:

8 m.o. Has breadth of skull, muzzle slightly long at this age. Good reach of neck with well placed shoulders, narrow front and sufficient bone. Nicely turned hocks and moved out well. Slightly long cast but maturity could change overall picture. Nevertheless, good overall balance. B/T coat not at its best.