First Place in Yearling - Dog, Judge: Mr Graham Pickering (Picer)
I would like to thank the committee of Ladies Kennel Association for their kind invitation to the judge the breed at this well organised show and their generous hospitality. It was a real honour and I thoroughly enjoyed my day. I would also like to thank my stewards Tony and Katherine for keeping things running smoothly throughout the day. Thank you also, to all the exhibitors for their entries and the sporting way that they took the decisions that I made.
As for the dogs – as expected, coats varied, all the dogs were entire, in clean condition and well behaved. There were a couple of dogs with teeth not set square in the jaw or with teeth out of line. I was looking for dogs of the correct size, with a typical otter head, a harsh double coat and a thick pelt, plenty of muscle, the correct amount of bone, and shown in hard condition. I also expect to see dogs that move true and with ease around the ring and look physically capable of doing a days’ work, whether they get the opportunity or not. All my winners had these attributes and as often happens many deserving exhibits went without cards on the day.
A grizzle dog with loads to like about him. He has a masculine head with a strong jaw, very little stop and well filled under his eyes. A good straight front and level top line. He is just right for bone and narrow throughout. He has good rear angulation and stood on nice tight cat like feet with an excellent double jacket with a thick pelt. Moved around the ring with confidence. Unfortunately, his profile was spoilt by his leaning back from his handler. Considered him for the top awards in the challenge.