Birmingham Dog Show Society Ltd

National Dog Show 2024 - Utility Veteran Group

Another lovely group of veterans which provided great competition, many of whom have done well under me before at breed level.

Group 1. Neath-Duggan & Baker’s Ch Buffrey Incognito by Dalleaf JW VW. This 9 yr old Dalmatian boy is a sheer joy and one who always commands attention and today was no different. He certainly looks nowhere near his age, was presented in immaculate condition and has a terrific outline with text book neck, topline and tail. Quality head of good proportions, excellent eyes for shape and colour and ears which frame the face. Super angles front and rear and an absolute delight to watch him on the go around with great freedom of movement and as one with his handler.

Group 2. Watkins’ Esp/Int/Swiss Ch Albionspitz Blue Moon. 7 yr old Eurasier dog who pushed the winner all the way and it was really like splitting hairs when it came down to the final decision. Another who is no stranger to me and I actually think he is now at his very best and he was shown here in tip top form. He excels for type and presents a super balanced outline with moderate length of neck, firm level back, deep brisket, correct ribbing and curled tail set on high. Loved his head and expression; good proportions and planes and the best of eyes and ears. Sound all through and moves out with style.

Group 3. Lemon’s Ch Souska I Need Your Love. This 7 yr old Tibetan Spaniel boy is another who cannot be overlooked and pleased for type and outline and was good upon closer inspection too. Masculine headpiece with no suggestion of coarseness; dark oval-shaped eyes, pendant ears and cushioned muzzle. Correct length of neck to give balance, level topline, super rib, short muscular loin and high set plumed tail. Goes so well when viewed in profile with characteristic quick, free action of the breed. Quality coat and presentation.

Group 4. Thomas’ Vladtepes No Hiromi Go. 8 yr old Japanese Akita Inu bitch. This girl certainly shows no sign of age and was presented here in super coat and with excellent muscle-tone. Feminine all through and presenting a super outline with moderate length of neck, firm topline, good depth to chest, excellent ribbing and curled tail set on high. Most attractive head with broad, flat skull, slightly hooded ears, obliquely placed eyes and good depth to muzzle. Like the others who placed here, she is sound all through and has excellent carriage.

Also pulled out for further consideration were the Boston Terrier, Harrison’s Ch Eairycor Celtic Manxspirit, and the Shar Pei, Poole’s Ch Coatakinti Double Dare.

Judge: Tim Ball