Midland Counties Canine Society

It was a real [pleasure to be invited to judge the Toy Group at this, one of my favourite shows. In addition to the four winners, I shortlisted the sassy Affenpinscher, Cross, Gadsby & Isherwood’s Am Ch Donnybrook's Jack Tamarin; the smart Chinese Crested, Fletcher and Merryweather’s Multi Ch Myrtans Topnotch; the E.T.T. (Black and Tan), Leonard’s Ch Witchstone Minnehaha, typey and most impressive on the move; Lister’s classy Italian Greyhound, Ch Florita Tueletta and the lovely Pomeranian, Chilton and Davey’s Sixth Sense Hankey Bannister By Klassna (Imp Ukraine). However, it was an old favourite of mine in the form of the Welbourn’s Maltese Ch Zumarnik Stars N Stripes who topped the group. Hard to believe that he is very nearly eligible to be shown in Veteran. Well presented with good muscle tone and excellent pigmentation. Most attractive head and expression, strong white teeth, good forehand, cobby and well ribbed. He moved well and his vivacious, lively temperament was evident for all to see. In second place was Stracey’s Miniature Pinscher, Ch Krieger's Dark 'N' Delicious JW ShCM. Beautifully balanced and very pleasing to handle as she is feminine yet sturdy with a pleasing head and expression, excellent forehand and her footfall is precise and true. Keen and attentive, her clever handler really makes the most of her. In third place I had a dog I’ve admired from the ringside but not handled before. The young Japanese Chin, Allcock’s Ch Littletigers Damage Case At Sleepyhollow (Imp It) is a top class example of the breed. Dainty and elegant yet masculine with a good cobby body. He has a really lovely head and expression with a broad, well cushioned muzzle. Sound and typical on the move. I could happily take him home with me! The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, O'Brien’s Ch Valentyne The Irish Tenor has so much to commend him. He too is beautifully balanced with a lovely gentle expression, well broken markings and with a soft, silky coat. Free moving with a most typical temperament. Judge: Tom Mather