Birmingham Dog Show Society Ltd

I had the best time judging over the four days at this this well organised, very welcoming show, led by a fabulous Committee. I’d like to thank the Committee for the invitation and a special call out to Adam Chappell and John Purnell, my two Stewards, my wingmen, who did a fantastic job keeping the ring moving, kept me on track and were great company too; everything that you’d expect from stewards. Thank you.

Eukanuba Puppy Stakes

It was an honour to judge the Eukanuba Puppy Stakes over the four days and this was one of the best appointments I have ever had. Super exciting! I loved every minute of it. The quality of the puppies was fantastic, and lots of very promising puppies for the future, many I will follow with great interest.

Eukanuba Puppy Stakes Day 1:

1st: BLAKE, Ms S Sandbears Forty Four, Newfoudland.

A super impressive male, presented a clean and balanced eye-catching outline on both the stand and on the move. Presented in first class condition. Full credit to the owner/handler. A beautiful head piece, well-shaped with a dark eye. Strong neck into well placed shoulders and straight front. Excellent assembly and construction throughout with correct topline. Well-muscled hindquarters, used on the move, covering the ground freely. A real pleasure to have hands on this excellent male.

2nd: MOTTRAM, MISS L Mybeards Sweep, Polish Lowland Sheepdog.Another top-quality puppy. Handled to get the very best out of him. A cobby well balanced pup of correct size. Appealing head with correct proportions. Good size and shape of eye with super expression. Excellent front assembly, with a deep brisket and good length of body. Correct angulation to his hindquarters. Moved out really well, a real showman.

3rd: GARDNER, Mr A & HILLIER, Mrs Sonya Charson Carrie Oakey, Briard.

Eukanuba Puppy Stakes Day 2:

1st: ROBB, Mrs Irene & ROBB, Mr Glenn & CHAPMAN, Mrs Mi Ellemich Good Trouble With Gleniren, CKCS.Where do I start? The old cliche the one you want to take home, well this was her! This little lady is absolutely outstanding and has the full package! A super example of the breed, with the showmanship that makes her the superstar she is. Full of breed type and quality, and oozing with personality. Presented and handled to perfection. At whatever angle, stood and on the move, she is balanced and catches your eye. Excellent feminine head, beautiful expression with well set ears. Neck of moderate length with correct slight arch. Her body is short coupled and has the correct spring of rib. Beautiful Blenheim colour, well broken up. So elegant on the move, covering the ground and head held, keeping her topline at all times. Was absolutely delighted to award her Best Overall over the four days and was excited to see her win the Top Puppy Group and Best Puppy in Show. I will without doubt follow her journey.

2nd: HALL, Miss Michaela Shenedene Copy And Paste, Lhasa Apso.

A delightful sturdy, well balanced puppy with super character. Handled with patience and these two were clearly having fun together. A lovely feminine head, with correct proportions and eye colour and shape. Well put together from head to tail, lovely to go over. Cracking body shape, good topline which she held well as she moved out freely with style and confidence. Tail carried over the back, in excellent coat and condition. An exciting future ahead for this pup I’m sure.

3rd: EASDON & MARTIN, Messrs A & P Yakee A Daydream Believer, Pekingese.

Eukanuba Puppy Stakes Day 3:

1st: GILPIN, Mr and Mrs James and Hilary Otterbobs Beatrix, Border Terrier.

What a cracking puppy, I couldn’t take my eyes off her and every time I glanced around the ring she caught my attention, always on her game. A really smart pup who not only filled my eye but was a joy to go over. The most beautiful feminine head with the correct broad skull, short muzzle, and such a typical keen expression. Correct ears and mouth. Excellent front assembly into the correct length of body and strong in loin. On the move she completes the package, covering the ground well, so sound and at one with her handler at all times. Was an absolute pleasure to award her Runner Up Overall.

2nd: PARKER, Miss S & STEVENS, Mr G Serenaker Saltydog, Beagle.

Another very exciting male puppy. Full of quality. A sturdy and compact tri boy, beautiful clean balance throughout without any coarseness. The most lovely head piece, masculine with the correct proportions, dark eye and the most appealing expression, kind of wanted to keep looking into his eyes. Good set on and length of ear. Excellent length of neck into well placed shoulders, straight front, excellent bone. Excellent topline which he held on the move as he moved out with purpose, with excellent front reach and drive from his strong hindquarters.

3rd: WILTON-CLARK, Ms J Shalfleet Chilli Cracker,Whippet.

Eukanuba Puppy Stakes Day 4:

1st: BOND, Dr Kirsten & ZDUNIC SINKOVIK, Mrs Sabina, Kan Trace Emit Remmus (Imp), Lagotto Romagnolo.

Another class full of quality but this young brown man excels in quality and type and one I am sure has a very exciting future ahead of him. He has excellent showmanship, presence and rapport with his handler which just gives them that extra. He catches your eye with his overall balance, square shape and correct size. Excellent temperament, full of affectionate and personality. Excellent head, expression and eye. Powerful short, arched neck into well placed muscled shoulders. Well-constructed throughout, super compact body. Correct angulation to his hindquarters. Moved effortlessly, with ease and correct footfall, keeping his excellent profile.

2nd: KELLY, Ms K & KELLY, Miss K Fairwinds In Motion with Zenevieva, Golden Retriever. A close call between first and second here. First class presentation and handling here. So much to like about this puppy. Top quality, well balanced throughout with a super clean outline. Powerful throughout but without coarseness. Loved her head which was feminine, well chiselled, and super dark eye. Strong neck into excellent forequarters. Short coupled body into well angulated hindquarters. Good width of thigh, excellent bone and lovely round tight feet. Moved on a loose lead, perfect footfall, with excellent front reach and drive from behind.

3rd: LONGBOTTOM, Miss R & MILBY, Mr P Gunalt Curtain Call, Weimaraner.

Gundog Veteran Group:

A super group full of quality and was a real privilege to judge so many excellent dogs still very much in their prime.

1st: NELSON, Mrs L & MORRIS, Mrs B & BRYANT, Mrs B Am Ch Ir Ch Sh Ch Silhouette Troubling Nasailleen - SPANIEL (AMERICAN COCKER), D.

Outstanding my notes say and how true. This male is full of quality, type and presented in first class condition. He presents an excellent overall clean outline and then you put your hands on him, and he fulfils every expectation. The most exquisite head with the correct proportions, balance, and the most appealing expression. Excellent length and strength to neck into super front assembly. He flows into a sturdy body with correct spring of rib, sloping topline into well angulated powerful hindquarters. Then he takes to the floor and is honestly quite breathtaking. This is a dog that covers the ground, showing such reach and drive with such ease, one to watch and learn from. I was so excited to watch him go on to win Best Veteran in Show. Huge congratulations.

2nd : 9428 CROWTHER, Mr D J Sh Ch Hundwith McLaren - CC – WEIMARANER, D.

A very handsome dog. Such power and the most appealing balanced outline. He was in excellent muscular condition. An attractive masculine head bit not coarse with a really kind expression, and good length of ear. Correct length of neck into strong well-placed shoulders. Straight in front, deep chest. Excellent spring of rib and well back. Correct moderate angulation to his hindquarters. Held his topline on the move, the handler getting the very best out of him at the right pace and utilising the ring, a joy to watch.

3rd : 8153 GILDER, Mr J & BLUNDEN, Miss L Fullforge Free Horizons Con Mikette Sh.CM - LAGOTTO ROMAGNOLO, B.

Utility Veteran Group:

I really enjoyed judging this group which was full of excellent quality. Full credit to the dogs and their owners for the fantastic condition of their dogs, they might be veterans but I am sure some still give many a run for their money in their breed. Well done all.

1st : 2525 PEARCE, Mr Gary & FRANCIS, Mr Dale Ch Longsdale Willie Win JW, GERMAN SPITZ (KLEIN), D.

What a great name and very appropriate, he sure did and thoroughly deserved this group win and then to finish Reserve Best Veteran in Show was so exciting. He is really smart and compact and a really eye-catching outline. In excellent coat condition and when hands on he is so well put together from nose to tail. An excellent example and a super showman. Good head, eye shape and colour. Correct body proportions. Super tight feet. Moved out really well.

2nd : 2837 SAUNDERS, Mrs S Ch Bellellen Double Ducie - LHASA APSO, D.

A lovely balanced male, clean outline and in excellent condition. He was sturdy under his excellent correct coat but not coarse in any way. Appealing head with good eye colour and shape. A straight front, a compact body with ribs extending back, strong loin and level topline which he held on the move. In good muscle in his well angulated hindquarters which he sued on the moved, with tail carried well over the back.

3rd : 3239 DAVIES, Ms Carol Ann Ch Mullagh Twilight Over Bowcara - TIBETAN SPANIEL - Bitch

Day 1 YKC Members Handling Stakes 6-11 yrs:

1st: Piper Kenyon; did a great job handling a Dogue De Bordeaux. She was attentive to her dog and what was happening in the ring around her. She was sympathetic and kind, showing the mouth correctly. She carried out the required ring patterns accurately, using the ring space available to get the most of out her dog on the move. My one piece of feedback for the day is keep an eye on your dog on the stance and if as I did move the leg intentionally, that you move it back to ensure the dog is in correct stance ready for the judge to view once having gone over it.

2nd: Henry Leese; did a great job and should be very proud himself handling his Rough Collie. He ensured that the dog was attentive to him presenting a pleasing overall outline of the dog on the stand. He showed was gentle when showing the bite and moved around the dog accordingly so that I could see at all angles. Henry seemed to really enjoy himself and the excitement when he realised he had won prize money was brilliant and well deserved, hope you treated yourself! He moved the dog at the correct pace and I would just encourage you to keep moving the dog all the time the judge is watching even when back to the end of the line so that they are always seeing it to its full advantage.

Day 1 YKC Members Handling Stakes 12-17 yrs:

1st: Paige Hughes; an excellent job handling a Siberian Husky. Immaculately dressed herself in practical and complementary colours, allowing for a clear outline of the dog. Really impressed by her calm, precise style, not over done in any way, it was all about the dog as it should be. She moved the dog at the correct pace, and both were at one all the time. She had excellent control of her lead which was always tidy and never distracting. Another who was clearly enjoying what she was doing and that makes e smile too. Well done.

2nd: Ashlyn Wemyss; did a super job especially when her Bullmastiff was not entirely happy on the stand, this happens to us all and this is where we show our skills. First and foremost, she remained calm and was patient and did not get flustered or irritated, instead as I would expect and was looking for, she talked to and encouraged her dog. On the move she had the correct pace and ensured that she never came between me and the dog, allowing for a clear view at all times form every angle.

3rd: G Moore.

Day 1 YKC Members Handling Stakes 18-24 yrs:

1st: Sophie Wildig; a really skilled handler, I’d say a faultless job. Appropriately and smartly dressed, and what I loved was she really was enjoying herself and this was what bought the best out of her dog. They were a great pair. It’s important to have fun in what you’re doing, and this handler demonstrated the skill of being able to have fun combined with concentration. She handled her Border Collie in a calm and professional manner. She ensured that she allowed herself enough room in the initial around the ring with dogs moving at a different pace, might sound simple but a consideration so many do not make the most of. The dog was stacked with good space between him and her presenting an eye-catching clean outline. Great lead control and kept tidy in her hand, so no distractions.

2nd: Tamsin Blyton; another very talented handler, did a brilliant job with her Bouvier. Her ring patterns were tidy, she used the ring to its advantage for a large breed. Great pace with the dog which is not as easy as it looks and is a skill in itself. Again, suitably dressed, presenting a smart overall picture and colours to ensure the dog stands out. She was gentle when showing the dogs teeth presenting a clear view. She moved around the dog correctly, keeping control at all times but allowing me to freely go over the dog at ease.

3rd: Chloe McDonald.

Day 2 YKC Members Handling Stakes 6-11 yrs:

1st: Abigail Twigg; what a super competent happy handler. Did a really great job in ensuring that her Miniature Pinscher was ready and stacked for me to see at its best at all the right times. She was sympathetic and calm and got the job done in a really professional manner. Her ring patterns were really tidy and she didn’t come between me and her dog at any time. She showed the mouth correctly and gently. She had control of her lead at all times and was kept neatly in her hand, no dangling leads. I am sure she will have lots of success in the future.

2nd: Darcie Fleming; another very competent handler who was kind and encouraging to her Papillion. She was smartly dressed which complimented the overall picture. Again, it was good to see her enjoying herself too. Darcie corrected the dogs legs which I moved whilst going over the dog, showing that she was focused and attentive. She moved her body positioning when necessary to ensure I had a clear view of her dog at all times. Moved the dog at the right pace, great job, well done.

3rd: George Gardner;

Day 2 YKC Members Handling Stakes 12-17 yrs:

1st: Daisy Mason; what fantastic rapport between dog and handler here. Complete focus and attention to the task in hand and kept an eye on me, so when I was glancing around the ring, the dog was always presented to ensure I was seeing the dog at its best. Excellent use and maintaining good space around her, never overcrowding others or herself. She made sure she had the right distance between those in front on the initial round the ring movement, to make sure I had a clear view of her dog. I liked her clam, quiet manner in the ring, making the job look effortless, which is show it should be. A really talented handler who will go on to big things, I’m sure.

2nd: Kaitlyn Collier; again, another calm and no fuss handler. The skill for any handler is for the judge to be completely all eyes on and focus on their dog, not them, and Kaitlyn did just this. She got on with the job in hand, presenting her dog to its best. Smartly dressed and in a great colour complimenting the black of the dog against the pink, presenting a clean and clear outline. She was gentle and considerate when showing the teeth on the table. Maintained control of her lead at all times. Utilised the space in the ring on the move and gave space between me, her dogs and herself without losing control.

3rd: Edward Eddery.

Day 2 YKC Members Handling Stakes 18-24 yrs:

1st: Elizabeth O'Brien; what I really liked about this handler was not only that she did a brilliant job presenting her Tibetan Spaniel, but she looked to be enjoying every minute of it, and this is exactly how it should be. She was smiling, her dog was enjoying it, and this made me smile too. She spoke frequently to her dog, encouraging and praising it throughout the class, creating a great rapport and partnership between them, the outcome a really excellent job. All ring procedures were carried out tidily, never coming between me and the dog but always in control. Great team work here, a really talented handler who clearly loves what she does.

2nd: Megan Rayner; handling an Akita. Megan moved her dog at exactly the right pace at all times, maximising the use of the large ring. Her turnings were tidy which is not always as easy with a larger dog. She kept good distance between herself and others in the initial around the ring ensuring that I had a clear view of her dog when she came into my view. On the stand her dog was stood correctly and timely. Kept control of her lead at all times and was gentle when showing the dogs teeth to me.

3rd: Tegan Collier.

Day 3 YKC Members Handling Stakes 6-11 yrs:

1st: Daisy Bray; what a super handler! Daisy and her Whippet were a great team, with super rapport between them. She was smartly and appropriately dressed, taking the task in hand seriously with full concentration and focus whilst at the same time enjoying her time in the ring. She was a very sympathetic and calm handler, no fuss or flustering. She used the ring to it full advantage keeping the right pace. She had her dog ready and correctly stood on the table for me to judge as soon as I turned, and the same for when I viewed the full class in the line-up. She was polite and professional. Really job job.

2nd: Rhys Duncan; Handling a Deerhound and this handler did a brilliant job really showing the dog at its best on the move; on a loose lead but still in control with the lead kept tidy in his hand so not to distract and at exactly the right pace. Moving a dog at the right speed and pace may look easy but its not and is a skill in itself, so really well done on this. A larger dog which Rhys did well to present correctly on the stand and never dropping his lead so not to lose control. He showed the teeth gently and correctly and moved around the dog at the right times to ensure as a judge I had a clear view of the dog at all times.

3rd: Leighton-Gem Cooper

Day 3 YKC Members Handling Stakes 12-17 yrs:

1st: Charlotte Freudenreich; a really smart team here. Complete focus and concentration to the task at hand and all eyes on her dog, me and other handlers in the ring to ensure that her dog was presented to its best at just the right time. She was aware and kept space in the initial around the ring at the start which I did intentionally with all dogs of all sizes together at the start to see who keeps their distance and space from others at that critical time that their dog comes into my line of sight, and this she did. Both dog and handler enjoying their time in the ring which is great to see and gets the most out of the dog.

2nd: Ellie Daeling Steele; handling a Rhodesian Ridgeback which ease. A sympathetic handler, calm and no fuss. She had control of her lead at all times and was kept tidy, so not to distract the overall picture. Ellie had great rapport with her dog and the two worked well together. Her ring patterns were tidy, never coming between me and the dog and she used the ring to her advantage. Great job.

3rd: Francesca Wilson.

Day 3 YKC Members Handling Stakes 18-24 yrs:

1st: Luke Sampson; handled a Whippet to perfection. What a super handler, getting the very best out his dog from the moment he stepped into the ring. Absolutely no distraction from the dog to the handler at any time which is how it should be. He maintained his space around him at all times in the line-up ensuring no shadowing or crowding from other exhibits, allowing me as the judge to always get a clean full overall picture of his dog. Clean and tidy handling throughout. Good control of the lead, and always in control. Gentle handling when showing the teeth. Precise, smart ring patterns, using the ring to its max and moving at absolutely the right pace. Really impressive top job, well done.

2nd: Sophie Wildig; a super talented handler who demonstrated many of the same skills as critiqued above on day 1 but her ability to handle a number of different breeds to such a high level was clearly demonstrated here. My only piece of feedback which split these two was to keep focus on the ring and this applies to a number of handlers, don’t get distracted by others outside the ring. The judge is always watching your dog andinI that split second it can make all the difference to what they see.

3rd: Elizabeth 0'Brien;

Day 4 YKC Members Handling Stakes 6-11 yrs:

1st: Eva Scott; what a super team these two are, both enjoying their time in the ring. Eva did a brilliant job at moving her dog at the right pace and correct speed. She was polite and dressed smartly and appropriately. She kept control of her lead at all times and never dropped it and was kept tight and tidy in her hand. She showed the full mouth correctly and kindly. She spoke to her dog, encouraging and praising. Her dog was ready in the correct stance for me to judge on her individual and she moved around the dog when necessary so no obstruction to my view. Really great job, well done.

2nd: Layla Duncan; another really polite, well-mannered, smartly dressed handler, smiling the whole time she was in the ring, I do love to see this. Did a great job handling her Spinone who was no easy task given size, but she was calm and knew the correct stance of her dog and did this really well. Never dropping her lead, keeping it neatly in her hand. One piece of advice, when showing the teeth show the front and then each side to give the judge a full view. She moved her dog at a good speed and her ring patterns were carried out using the ring space and never coming between me and her dog. Top job, well done.

3rd: Evelyn Hardy;

Day 4 YKC Members Handling Stakes 12-17 yrs:

1st: Megan Slack; complete focus, concentration in the ring at all times. Brilliant rapport with her ESS, a real team here. Really impressed by her no fuss, no over the top handling, it was all about her and her dog. Her dog was presented to get the very best out of it at all times. She ensured she gave herself the right amount of space at all times between herself and others, never overcrowding others or allowing others to over crowd her. Her dog was always ready in stance for me to see at its best at the right times. Her ring patterns were carried out tidily, and turns were neat. Spot on pace and speed on the move.

2nd: Phoebe Toublic; another calm, sympathetic, polite handler. Smartly and appropriately dressed. Her ring patterns were neat, using the ring to the advantage of her ESS, and she moved her positioning to ensure that she didn’t come between me and her dog at all the correct times. She kept focussed on the ring and on her dog, making sure her dog was ready in the stance for me to judge and see at its best. Perfect lead control and positioning, she showed the teeth correctly and kindly.

3rd: Olivia Cogan;

Day 4 YKC Members Handling Stakes 18-24 yrs:

1st: Elizabeth O'Brien; another handler who demonstrated her super ability and skill being able to handle a number of different breeds at a high level. Today she was handling a GWP and she adapted and applied her skill I previously critiqued to get the very best of out this dog. A very talented handler who proved she can apply her skill and I am sure will been in demand in the future, and will enjoy lost of success.

2nd: Elise O'Connor; another really talented handler who was polite, well-mannered and smartly dressed to present a great overall picture. Handling a NSDTR who she had a great rapport with. She was aware of her ring space at all times, holding her own on both the initial run around and in the line-up. She kept control of her lead at all times, showed teeth correctly and sympathetically. She moved her positioning when necessary to never come between me and her dog. She moved at the right pace on the move and her patterns were straight and tidy.

3rd: Katherine O'Brien;

Day 1 YKC Members Stakes Working:

1st: 241 MURPHY, Mrs C & MURPHY, Mr Robert & MURPHY, Mr Jam Nanahboozoo Catcha Poacha, Bullmastiff. A feminine bitch but with the desired power one would want throughout. A good head shape and proportions with well filled cheeks. Muscular in neck into muscular shoulders and a straight front. Deep in chest and brisket. Good feet. Muscular hindquarters. Moved well.

2nd: 810 KENT, Mrs Jo & KENT, Mr Mark Lyfearon Off With Her Head, Siberian Husky.

Presented an appealing balanced clean outline. Of correct size and presented in great condition and handled really well. A feminine head with lovely eye shape and colour and expression. Correct length and arch to neck into well placed shoulders and front assembly. Good spring of rib and body proportions. Well-muscled upper thigh used well on the move, holding her topline and tail well.

3rd: 441 KELLEWAY, Mrs S C J Damarkann Raydiance with Stevarah. Great Dane.

Day 1 YKC Members Stakes Pastoral:

1st: 1029 WALDRON, Ms Justine Ch Snowmead Shades Of Gray JW. Bearded Collie, D. Really liked this boy. Full of quality and presented in excellent condition. Didn’t put a foot wrong and caught my eye on the initial overall line up and continued to please as a I went over him. A beautiful head piece, masculine but not coarse wit correct eye shape and colour and the most affectionate of expressions, made me smile. Correct length and strength of neck into excellent front assembly. Good spring of rib with level back which he held on the move and wow when he moved he used his well-muscled hindquarters to drive, he was so sound and effortless, beautiful.

2nd: 891 CRAWFORD, Mrs P A & MCDONALD, Miss Chloe Ch Mistyholly More Magic for Louiston, Australian Shepherd, B. Lots to like about this girl. Well balanced overall and of good size. Feminine nicely shaped head, with good eye shape and colour, super expression. Clean slightly arched neck into good forequarters. Correct spring of rib and deep chest. Pleasing angulation in hindquarters. Moved soundly and with ease, holding her topline.

3rd: 1276 KELLETT, Mrs S Anne & BURROW, Miss I S Fostebrie Exotique Noir of Kellbry JW Sh.CM. Birard.

Day 2 YKC Members Stakes Utility:

1st: 2275 COLLIER, Mrs Katherine & COLLIER, Mr David & COLLI Kallierbelle Bluebelle, Dalmatian, B.

A lovely girl. Well balanced, clean outline, strong but feminine throughout. Put on a great performance and her handler really got the best from her. Clean in head with correct eye shape and colour and a really lovely expression. Good arch to her neck into well placed muscular shoulders. Straight front ns the best of feet. Good body proportions. Strong hindquarters used well on the move, covering the ground with such ease.

2nd: 3230 COOPER, Miss C & O'BRIEN, Miss Elizabeth Susu Princess Spice Parti JW W17, Tibetan Spaniel, B. What a great team these two made. Super personality on this bitch, a real show girl, showing the temperament one would expect. Lovely balance and body proportions. Beautiful head, feminine and of correct size and with defined stop. Good eye shape, colour and a super expression. Well put together throughout with good spring of rib into strong hindquarters, used well on the move holding her back line and carrying her tail well over.

3rd: 2698 MARSHALL, Mrs Brenda & MARSHALL, Miss Chloe Charney Morning Song For Shandalar

Day 2 YKC Members Stakes Toy:

1st: 3476 WILDIG, Miss Sophie Ann & WILDIG, Miss Janette Affentude One in a Minion, Affenpinscher,B. Sturdy and full of character. Made me smile and her handler. Good head size and shape with a dark eye. Short neck into a straight front. Short back into pleasing spring of rib. Well set hindquarters without any exaggeration. Confident and sound on the move.

2nd: 3721 MASON, Miss Daisy Crownlake's Denis The Menace, Chihuahua (Long Coat), D. Another great show dog with super personality and charisma. A smart boy, liked his overall outline which he held throughout, on the stand and on the move. Appealing head with a dark eye and lovely expression, well placed and used ears. Good front assembly, level back and correct body proportions. Moved with both reach and drive.

3rd: 4522 D'ARCY, Mrs Paulette & DUFFIELD, Mr Nigel Paavali's Rocket Man JW

Day 3 YKC Members Stakes Hound:

1st: 6218 SAMPSON, Mrs Avryl Melanie & SAMPSON, Mr Luke Dapperdiva Milk And Honey, Whippet, B. Absolutely loved this stylish bitch. Has the power and strength desired but so feminine with it. The most beautiful head piece, with correct eye shape and expression, correct rose shaped ears. Super length and strength and arch to the neck into well placed shoulders. Perfectly straight in front with a deep chest. Correct arch over the loin. Excellent strength to her hindquarters. Moved soundly, with great stride, holding her shape and topline. Really well handled.

2nd: 5473 MASON, Miss A Ch Teckeltown Master Piece JW, Dachshund (Miniature Smooth-Haired),D. A really smart dog, lovely balanced compact and well-muscled throughout male, with a clean outline. Super head and eye with well-placed ears, flowing into excellent strength and length of neck. Well put together in front, good strong body, with ribs extending well back. Correct proportions to rear assembly, well-muscled upper thigh and straight behind. Sound and purposeful on the move holding his topline.

3rd: 4963 ALLENBY, Mrs Heidi & ALLENBY, Mr Richard Ch Soletrader Fun Times for Rangali JW

Day 3 YKC Members Stakes Terrier:

1st: 6662 ALLENBY, Miss M Ch Diddimont Luna Wuffgood JW, Dandie Dinmont, B. Presented an eye catching balanced outline, in good coat and condition. A very appealing head for shape, size and super expression. Strong in neck and body but not overdone. Correct spring of rib and tail set. Well-muscled thigh, good angulation to the stifles. Moved soundly with ease. Super handling to get the very best out of her.

2nd: 6803 CORBETT, Mrs Ann & ROSELL, Ms S Soletrader On Your Marks, Jack Russell, D. What a fantastic showman he is, full of character, personality and fun. Loved him. Definitely ticked the boxes for general appearance. Him and his handler seemed to be loving every minute of their time in the ring which was so great to see. A really smart outline on the stand and held on the move. Especially liked his super head piece with correct proportions and with the keenest of expressions. Well put together throughout, level back which he held on the move, using his well-muscled hindquarters.

3rd: 6732 WYNTER, Miss P Ch Robelroy Many Dreams At Furlongfox ShCEx

Day 4 YKC Members Stakes Gundog:

1st: 9164 FRUSHER, Mrs S D E & SLACK, Miss Megan Chanangel When You Believe, English Springer Spaniel,B. Lots to like on this beautifully presented and handled bitch. Lovely shape in outline. Super feminine head with good chiselling. Correct shape and eye colour giving the kindest of expression, good ear set and length. Pleasing front assembly with well laid-back shoulders. Desired strength to body and depth of chest. Moderate angulation to her hindquarters. Super tight rounded feet. Moved soundly, covering the ground well.

2nd: 7839 WARD, Miss C M Danton Obsession with Tantaraviz, Hungarian Vizsla,B. Caught my eye in the initial line up for her clean balanced outline, and didn’t disappoint when I put my hands on her. So well put together from head to tail. Loved her head shape and expression. Correct front and rear assembly, correct width to thigh and in good muscular condition. Moved soundly and with ease by her skilled handler.

3rd: 8580 LEWIS, Miss Meaylee & LEWIS, Mrs Sharon Fairwinds In Space Man

Day 1 Adult Handling (17-30 years) (1,1abs)

Day 1 Adult Handling (31-45 years) (6, 3abs)

1st: Ann-Marie Taylor; did a super job handling her Border Collie. What stood out for me and when she really caught my eye was her skill in moving her dog at the perfect pace and really showed him to his advantage, using the full ring which all looked totally effortless, a perfect picture with no distractions, all eyes on the dog as it should be. On the stand the dog was well presented, and she moved around the dog allowing me a clear view and ease to go over. She was a calm and sympathetic handler, handling gently when showing the teeth. Really great job.

2nd: Justin Graham-Weall; handling a Shetland Sheepdog. Another sympathetic handler whose dog was a little spooky and this is when a handler comes into themselves, Justine remained calm and quite rightly encouraged his dog talking positively to ensure they have a positive experience. He kept his space from other handlers in the ring, not allowing for any over crowing. He had good, tidy control of his lead at all times. He was watching me at all times and presented his dog ready in the stance at the right times for me to view.

3rd: Robynne S Wood

Day 1 Adult Handling (46-60 years) (4, 4abs)

Day 1 Adult Handling (60+) (7,7abs)

Day 2 Adult Handling (17-30 years) (5, 3abs)

1st: Lauren Toms; a smart duo here with great rapport. They worked really well together without any fuss or over done handling. Presenting her Schnauzer in the correct stance, correcting the leg when I moved it and showing the full teeth correctly and gently. She moved her position around the dog, never coming between us. She concentrated on the task at hand. Ring patterns were straight and tidy, and moved her dog at exactly the right speed, showing his movement off superbly. She was polite and professional in the ring at all times.

2nd: Danielle Graham-Weal; handling a Dalmatian. A really sympathetic, calm handler, who was had attention of her dog at all times, she focussed on the job in hand and what was going on in the ring. She kept a tidy lead at all times. She used the ring space well, getting the best out of her dog on the move which she moved at the right pace and speed. She was aware of my positioning at all times, ensuring that she didn’t come between me and her dog.

Day 2 Adult Handling (31-45 years)

1st: Nichola Gooch; these two were such a great partnership and really impressed me. Her Pomeranian was totally in sync with her handler at all times. Great rapport here, built on trust, great communication resulting in a brilliant demonstration of handling and presentation. Her style was very calm, professional and focussed. Nichola was smartly dressed giving a professional overall picture. She ensured her dog was stood at all times when I looked around the ring, seeing it at its best always. Great job.

2nd: Julia Balode; handling a Xoloitzcuintle. Presented with great impact, she showed her dog as soon as she stepped into the ring, entering with the dog in full gait. Excellent choice of suit colour (red) to compliment the colour and outline of her dog. Ensured space between myself and the dog at all times, giving a clear view and no obstructions. She showed the teeth correctly and sympathetically. On her individual she maximised the large ring space for the benefit of her dog, keeping turns tidy. Kept control of the lead at all times. My only watch out would be to ensure that you give adequate space to others, slower moving dogs when moving together.

3rd: Andrea Keepence-Keyte

Day 2 Adult Handling (46-60 years) 

1st: Anita Skinner; handling a LC Chihuahua. A really smart, calm, no fuss handling demonstration. Both herself and dog presented immaculately and professionally. She showed the teeth correctly and kindly. Everything was done in a tidy manner, including her control of the lead, her ring patterns were tight, and she didn’t come between me and her dog. She moved her positioning when necessary to never obstruct my view of the dog. What I loved was that both seemed to enjoy every minute of their tome in the ring, just as it should be.

2nd: Julia Moorcroft; another great job, just watch your body positioning to ensure you don’t block the judges view of your dog, you want to make sure the judge has full view of your dog at all times. Julia was polite, professional, and demonstrated great sportsmanship. She had her dog ready for me to view in correct stance on the table as I tuned to see, she showed the teeth correctly and calmly. She repositioned the dogs’ feet. Her ring patterns were straight lines with neat turns.

3rd: Jacqueline Thorpe

Day 2 Adult Handling (60 + years) (6, 4abs)

1st: Elisabeth Krieger; handling a Miniature Schnauzer who was sympathetic and focused to ensure that her dog was ready for me to see in the correct stance at all the right times. She kept good space between herself and other exhibitors in both the line-up and on the around the ring at the start as a group, ensuring I had a clear view of her dog. My only tip would be, please ensure you have control of your lead at all times by keeping in your hand. On her individual, she showed the teeth correctly and moved her positioning around her dog to enable me to go over without any obstructions.

2nd: Cecilia Howard; clearly both her and her ETT enjoying their time in the ring which always brings a smile to my face too. She kept control of her lead at all times and it was aways tight and tidy in her hand. Just be aware of keeping space and no obstruction between the judge and your dog, you want to make sure the judge can always have a clear view of your dog whether they are either doing their hands on or viewing on the floor. Spot on pace and speed on the move.

Day 3 Adult Handling (17-30 years) (6,1abs)

1st: Abbeygail Longhurst: perfect rapport here between dog and handler, there was a great connection which resulted in a super handling demonstration, getting the very best out of her Whippet from the moment she stepped in the ring. I liked her calm approach, no fuss, complete focus on her dog whilst also keeping an eye on me as the judge and other exhibitors too. She kept hold of her lead throughout, her dog was ready in correct stance on the table and in the line-up. She repositioned her dogs’ feet into the correct place on the table. On the individual, her ring patterns were straight, utilising the ring space, at the correct speed and finished to present her dog with good distance between me and her dog.

2nd: Beth Holmes: handling a Whippet. Beth’s calm approach was a great demonstration of how I believe it transfers down the lead, her dog was at one with her at all times and there were no distractions from my eye to the handler at any time, as it should be. She was focussed at all times, and had her dog in the right stance ready for me to see at its best both on the table and in the line-up. When she completed her ring patterns which were straight, she positioned her dog efficiently into stance to complete a great individual.

3rd: Lucy Hiam.

Day 3 Adult Handling (31-45 years) (4,1abs)

1st: Carolyn Hill: handling her Rhodesian Ridgeback to get the very best out of it especially on the move by maximising the large ring on the move. Great pace with her dog which is not as easy as it looks. She also did a great job, keeping her turns neat with straight lines on the out and back. She moved efficiently around her dog during the hands on, ensuring no obstructions and keeping control of her lead at all times and tidy. She was kind showing the teeth correctly.

2nd: Stefanie Brown: great job presenting her dog in the correct stance at all times and correcting feet positioning when I moved them. My one piece of advice is not to drop your lead, you should have hold of the lead at times so to have control. However, presented really well throughout, good communication giving encouragement and instructions. Smartly dressed in colours to compliment her dog’s coat colour. Good use of the ring on the move. Did not come between me and the dog, giving clear view at all times.

3rd: Lauren Cooper.

Day 3 Adult Handling (46-60 years) (9,5abs)

1st: Joanne Grimes-Watson; did a really super job overall and impressed me in the initial around the ring moving as a group as she was the only handler that considered the space between her and others, and held back to ensure she had full use of the ring in my view to run her dog at the right pace to give me a great picture of her dog, without having to break her gait or being overshadowed by others. She concentrated on the task at hand at all times and had her dog stood at its best every time I looked. She kept control at all times whilst ensuring I was able to freely go over her dog. Teeth were shown correctly and kindly. Smartly dressed, presenting a great picture.

2nd: Debra Kay: a super partnership here. Handler and her Jack Russell Terrier really enjoying themselves. Debra was kind and clam with her dog, clear communication, building a great rapport. She never dropped her lead and was kept tidy at all times. Debra was aware of my body positioning and didn’t come between me and the dog blocking my view or hands on. She has her dog ready in stance when necessary. Requested ring patterns were carried out correctly.

3rd: Ceri McEwan.

Day 3 Adult Handling (60 + years) (14, 4abs)

1st: Victor James Pearce: what a smart, professional partnership here. Both dog and handler immaculately turned out, presenting a real eye-catching picture. He was polite, professional and demonstrated good sportsmanship to his fellow exhibitors. His dog was ready on the table for me to see as I turned. He showed the teeth correctly and kindly. He kept control at all times of his lead and attention of his dog by speaking clearly when necessary. He moved around the dog correctly during the hands on to allow me to go over without any obstruction. He corrected feet positions when needed. His ring patterns were straight, without going between me and the dog and efficiently put into the stance.

2nd: Bille Darling: another handler turned out immaculately. This may seem obvious but isn’t to all, but it makes such a positive difference to the overall picture presented in the ring to the judge and is to your dog’s advantage. This handler did a super job with her Rhodesian Ridgeback on the move, keeping great pace and space between her and the dog, allowing for a clear picture of the dog. She was also focussed at all times, and her dog was in correct stance and ready whenever I looked. Great job.

Day 4 Adult Handling (17-30 years) (7)

1st: Olivia Busby: a brilliant demonstration of handling. This handler was totally focused and zoned in on the task at hand as soon as she stepped in the ring with her IWS, making sure I saw it at its best at all times. Drawing my eye to the dog as she entered the ring, immediately showing it. On the initial run around, she was well aware of her space enabling to use the ring to her dogs’ advantage and me seeing a clear view of her dog on the move. They were a great team and worked as one all the time whilst both looking at enjoying themselves. Her dog was always ready at anytime I glanced around or for her individual. Excellent job.

2nd: Katherine O’Brien: did a really good job handling a GWP. Her ring patterns were carried out at a good pace and maximised the use of the large ring on her individual. Just give yourself space between the other handlers on the run around at the start. Katherine kept control of her lead at all times and corrected her dog stance when I moved one leg. She showed the teeth correctly and kindly. She moved correctly around her dog as I went over it, never obstructing my view.

3rd: Sarah Finch.

Day 4 Adult Handling (31-45 years) (5, 2 abs)

1st: Laura Elliott; really liked her super calm, no fuss, nothing over the top approach to handling her Hungarian Vizsla. Great colour choice of jacket, complementing the colour of her dog to present a clear and clean overall picture to the judge. Laura kept an eye on me at all times and ensured that her dog was always ready and presented at its best for me to see. She was focussed on the task at hand. She kept control of her lead at all times, never obstructing my view of her dog. Moved at the right pace and her turns were tidy.

2nd: Claire Leavy; handling a Flatcoated Retriever. Good job, presenting well on the stand ready for me to view and go over on her individual. They were both having lost of fun which is lovely. She was aware of my positioning and moved around her dog when necessary. She carried out all ring patterns correctly and used the full ring which not everyone does when they have a larger moving dog.

3rd: Katerina Gallatova.

Day 4 Adult Handling (46-60 years) (5, 3abs)

1st: Daisy Toublic; I’ve said it above but will say it again as I get so much pleasure form seeing handlers enjoying their time in the ring, and this handler was the same, just as it should be. A really great job handling her ESS. She was efficient and calm, ensuring her dog was ready in stance for me to judge at all times. She showed the teeth correctly and moved her positioning around the dog so I was able to go over it without any obstruction, moving the ears and lead to give a clean line. Her ring patterns were straight and turns were today. Great job.

2nd: Moira Wilson; a great colour choice of suit, really complimenting her black Cocker against the pink, presenting a clean, super clear outline. A sympathetic handler who was gentle and calm with her dog, showed the teeth gently and with kindness. She corrected her dogs stance when I moved one leg showing her concentration and focus on the task at hand. On the move, she ensured she never came between myself and the dog and her lines were straight and turns tidy. Just watch out to not drop the lead on the stand.

Day 4 Adult Handling (60 + years) (6, 2abs)

1st: Judith Davidson; great team rapport here. Both totally focused on each other, loved this. Judith was kind to her dog which really bought out the best in it. She encouraged and praised throughout. She was efficient and ready for me to judge her dog on its individual and in the line-up. She moved her positioning as I went over the dog so no obstructions and keeping control at all times and moving her dogs’ legs and the lead back into position for my final view. Her ring patterns on the move were carried out correctly, again being aware at all times of my positioning.

2nd: Simon Whittick; loved the personality of his Lagotto, loving every minute of it and super curious about everyone and every dog around him, super temperament and lots of fun but this did test his handling skills here. However, he did a really good job and kept calm and patient, and not getting flustered as some would, keeping hold of the lead at all times and kept tidy so not to distract. Just be a little gentler when showing the teeth. He stood the dog in correct stance and was stacked and ready for me to go over the dog. He used the ring space well.

3rd: Robert Mapletoff.