Darlington Dog Show Society Ltd

Darlington Dog Show Society 16th September 2023 Utility Group It is always such and honour and pleasure to judge at Darlington. The show runs like clockwork and it is supremely managed with a wonderful layout. I would like to thank David Guy and his superb committee for the kind invitation to judge the Utility Group at this very prestigious show and the warm welcome that I received. Todays group was slightly mixed with some BOB’s not quite putting in the performance or lacking muscle tone or condtition. I was, however, delighted with my shortlist, all very worthy examples of their breeds and each could easily have been placed on another day, but decisions have to be made. This comprised of the Akita, Dalmatian, German Spitz (Mittel), Japanese Shiba Inu, Lhasa Apso, Toy Poodle, Shar Pei & Tibetan Terrier. Group 1 was the handsome Akita male, Ch Stecal's All Guns Blazing, no stranger to me as I awarded him his very first puppy group at 6 months old. He has matured into something quite special. He commands attention. He has a large head but in total balance with the rest of him, forming the desired blunt triangle. Strong all through with wonderful bone and substance. He is presented in superb coat of clear colour. On the move he just cannot be ignored, powerful, economical with moderate easy stride. His handler gets the very best out of him and on this form, he should always be in contention. Group 2 and pushing the Akita all the way was the quite delightful Shar Pei, Ch Loopang's Back in Business. Sympathetically handled by a very capable young lady, this girl charmed me from the moment she entered the ring. Nothing exaggerated and excellent for size. She has clear eyes, neat ears and a wonderful expression. Another in super condition and moving out well in typical style. Group 3 the superb Tibetan Terrier bitch Ch Waterley Midnight Martini. To go over her there is very little that you would want to change. She is the perfect size, moderate all through and a wonderful head and expression, being black and white adds to her glamour and she holds herself with importance. Beautifully presented in full coat of perfect texture. Sound as a pound. Group 4 and completing, for me, a wonderful quartet was the Japanese Shiba Inu, Ch Vormund Xmas Bonus, from a kennel that simply just can’t seem to get it wrong in the breed. Yet again, another superb example handled, as you would expect, superbly. In wonderful condition, this dog has the most exquisite expression. Correct front, strong in topline and well carried tail. Sound as a bell being light and energetic in his movement, he is another that cannot be overlooked. Lee A S Cox (Judge)