First Place in Junior, Judge: Mr Darren Lockley (Chatmoss)
Many thanks to the Committee for inviting me to judge their Show, but more importantly my sincere thanks go to each exhibitor who entered and whoever submitted my details to the Committee. This was my first time judging an Open Show however after following the example of others before me of reading the breed standard a number of times throughout the preceding week I was confident I would take my interpretation of it into the ring and when arriving home following judging, I would be happy with my choices and I was. As both breeds are “Essentially a Working Terrier”, I place significant importance on being able to span the dog and it having the drive to cover ground efficiently but also having the protection of a good coat combined with physical and mental alertness and an armoury capable of being used if necessary. A dogs mouth is essential to its well being and teeth with an unhealthy covering of plaque is not acceptable to me in any dog be it pet, show or working and I placed accordingly.
12 1/2 month grizzle dog presenting a lovely outline. Put down in good condition albeit his coat was just past it’s best. A dog of good proportions with a moderately broad skull and good earset. Dark eye of correct almond shape, very good dentition and correct bite in a moderately strong muzzle which is slightly longer than some. A nice reach of neck leads to well placed, clean shoulders, straight front with plenty of bone and small, tight feet. Straight back line which he held well on the move, ribs well back and a strong loin. Correct shape tail which was well set on and of a proportionate length. Coat just past it’s best but good evidence of harshness with plenty of undercoat. His good angulations allowed him to move freely, with drive around the ring. Came to hand well and was easily spannable.