First Place in Post Graduate - Dog, Judge: Mrs Karen Stockley (Foxfactor)
My thanks to the Officers and Committee for giving me the opportunity to undertake my first Breed Club judging appointment and my stewards Ken Mackenzie and Margaret Warren for their assistance in the ring.
My enjoyable day started with the picturesque drive to the venue, in the sunshine, a rarity lately! Grateful thanks also to the competitors for an entry of 111 (5 NFC) making 141 entries affording me the opportunity to go over some lovely dogs and sportingly accepting my choices.
The majority were in good coat and condition, a couple difficult to span, due more to being a little plump rather than in construction. All males were entire (a few would have benefited from a hygienic wipe for better presentation !), no kinked tails, one incorrect mouth and a couple of ‘acceptable’ level bites and some teeth really needed cleaning. I was surprised by the amount of untidy feet and overlong claws considering how claws can ultimately affect posture, balance and movement. I was pleased with both my line ups and had some close decisions to make.
under 2 yrs good size grizzle with a typical otter head and keen expression.correct bite,moderate reach of neck into well laid shoulders which flowed nicely into good top line and well set on carroty tail.straight front, neat tight feet with thick pads,easily spanned,well ribbed back into strong loin and well muscled hind quarters which he used to good effect on the move to give a good driving action covering the ground well,he has a thick,loose pelt under a coat with evidence of harshness,just lacking enough top coat today for the higher awards.