Birmingham Dog Show Society Ltd

The day began with a touch of sadness, knowing it was my final judging assignment. However, by the end of the day, I felt content having witnessed the progress breeders have made with my beloved breed. I am truly grateful to the officers and committee for inviting me to judge this premier championship show. We were welcomed warmly upon arrival, and in the judge's reception area, I received my judging pack in a splendid wallet featuring the show's logo. After some coffee, we entered the hall, beautifully decorated with green carpets and white fences. Nick and 'The National' team have truly transformed this space, making it the best general championship show in the UK. My two outstanding stewards kept everything running smoothly, allowing my winners to compete in their respective groups.

After over 40 years in the breed and with this being my 12th CC appointment, this would mark my retirement from judging. With an entry of 37, I was disappointed for the society and myself. However, I am thankful to all the exhibitors for their entries and for accepting my decisions on the day. Over the last 5 decades, I have had the opportunity to judge some great Pekingese, and I was hopeful that my main winners would measure up to them; I need not have concerned myself. I was very impressed with my principal winners and would have been immensely proud to have bred any one of them. In my opinion, they have the quality to win top honours from both experienced breed specialists and knowledgeable non-specialists.

In my assessment, I did not encounter any significant health concerns. Overall, the quality was very high. Quite a few of the Pekingese I judged today would make most worthy UK champions, while those who already hold this title are deserving of more CCs. Unfortunately, I only had two challenge certificates to issue, and I had to select the dog and bitch that best aligned with my interpretation of the breed standard. As always, my hope was to discover the perfect pair: a thick-set, small to medium-sized male alongside a slightly larger female. I envisioned them captivating me with their exquisite expressions, featuring stunning large dark round eyes. A short broad nose, with the appropriately open nostrils, was a must, though not to the point of dominating the face. Of course, soundness was essential, and I anticipated their coats to exhibit the correct texture & length, complemented by just the right amount of age-appropriate thick fringes, to complete the picture. After judging some superb Pekes today, it became abundantly clear to me why their owners, regardless of gossip, pay their entry fees and have confidence in their Pekingese to travel up, down, and across the country. It was great to see a couple of fresh faces among the exhibitors, and I'm hopeful they'll be warmly welcomed and encouraged to relish their experience.

DOG CC AND BEST OF BREED - MORLEY MISS E - LIZLANMOR NEVISON

I've admired this exceptional 15-month-old young red dog from a distance. Yet, until you've handled him yourself, you can't truly grasp how good he is. When he first strolled into the ring, with the correct gait, everything looked just right, and I couldn't wait to get my hands on him. From every angle, he presents a perfect image of a top-quality balanced male Pekingese. On the table, I was thoroughly impressed. His head is big and most importantly, the correct shape, being both shallow and wide. I felt the correct ear shape and placement, and they were adorned with thick black fringes of a sensible length, that frame a beautiful face. His jet-black pigment and glorious big round dark eyes stood out. To achieve a quality expression, the eyes should be the primary feature that catches your attention on the face, certainly not the nose! Moving down, a visible wrinkle without obscuring his eyes, a broad, jet-black nose leather with open nostrils, the correct muzzle, and well-cushioned cheeks kept my attention. Enough chin and a good under jaw completed the picture. All the above gave an expression that screams quality, and by now I was already hooked. When my hands touched his front, I couldn't help but smile. Thick, short, slightly bowed legs with tight elbows, and two big, flat feet - the ideal front every specialist breeder should strive for. A deep chest and a barrel-shaped ribcage, a relatively short neck, flat back, evident waist, and the correct height-to-length ratio confirmed why he moved so correctly. A high tail set and well-muscled lighter hindquarters complemented his outstanding construction. Lifted, he confirmed my expectations - a heavy little dog with front-loaded weight. His coat, just the right amount, didn't obscure his shape and boasted the best texture. As expected from an experienced handler, his presentation was first class, and on the move, he was a joy to behold. In the challenge, he faced strong competition, but ultimately, I found nothing to surpass this exceptional, healthy junior dog. His dad was our top-winning Pekingese in the UK last year, for me, Nevison is an improvement. He truly stands out as one of the best male Pekingese I've ever judged. This was his 2nd CC, and with his looks and the way he handles, his title should come swiftly, and I would expect him to continue to win many more CC’s. It was no surprise to hear he passed his vet check with flying colours, and I later learned he was short listed in a very strong toy group.

RESERVE DOG CC - MORLEY, MISS E - KHLERKSHOF WE WILL ROCK YOU AT LIZLANMOR

This is another standout young male hailing from the same kennel as the Dog CC winner. This time, a 21-month-old striking fawn with the blackest of masks. He certainly gave Nevison a run for his money in the ring. I noticed many resemblances to Nevison, albeit he's slightly larger overall, though still within the ideal weight range. His masculinity is apparent, yet devoid of any coarseness. Upon closer examination, his expression is truly captivating, enhanced by his remarkably large, dark eyes and impeccably positioned facial features. Despite his youth, his physique is exceptionally well-developed. He boasts a superior front assembly, characterised by thick, slightly bowed legs, big feet, strong pasterns and elbows snug against his huge ribs. His relatively short neck complements a level back, a great rib cage and distinct waist. Noteworthy is his deep, broad chest, perfectly set tail, and hind legs displaying excellent muscle tone. When lifted, his weight is correctly distributed across his sturdy frame. His coat is just right, allowing free movement and does not mask his shape. Once again, his presentation was flawless. During the competition, he moved confidently at a steady pace, exhibiting the required rolling gait. In the challenge for the CC, he had a different handler, but this made no difference as his young handler took command and demonstrated how it should be done. Undoubtedly, he possesses all the attributes needed to become a UK champion. Given his exceptional pedigree, striking appearance, and superb physical structure, this young dog is undoubtedly a valuable addition to this already very successful kennel. It takes a truly exceptional breeder to part with a dog of such calibre; I'm unsure if I could do it myself.

BITCH CC - SMALL DR G, DR S, DR N, Dr C - CH KHLERKSHOF EVE OF SWAGGERBOOT

Among the four impressive Pekingese bitches competing in this open class, it was this striking three-year-old red dual-purpose bitch that truly captured my attention. This marks the second time I've had the honour of judging this quality Pekingese. My first encounter was as a puppy, and she secured a commendable second place in her class. This stands as a testament to the principle that persistence in the face of initial setbacks can lead to a satisfying outcome. Her stature and build epitomise the qualities I value in a Pekingese female. Possessing a commanding feminine head, adorned with thick black fringes, her gorgeous dark eyes and impeccably proportioned jet-black nose contribute significantly to the overall excellence of her expression. Handling her afforded me a deeper understanding of her remarkable attributes, including her superb front assembly, characterised by well-proportioned sturdy bowed legs, firm pasterns, and elbows snugly fitting against her big ribs. Her compact neck, expansive chest, generously sprung ribs, neat waist, and level back further emphasise her flawless structure. Moreover, her hind legs display strong muscle tone. while her tail is elegantly set high. Her coat, showcasing the ideal texture and length, complements her splendid shape. In motion, she effortlessly demonstrates the characteristic rolling gait expected of the breed, maintaining a consistently level topline. It is astonishing to note that despite her evident excellence, this only marks her 4th CC. Undoubtedly, she would make a prized addition to any kennel. The breeder of this lovely bitch and other winners today, has demonstrated a remarkable dedication to the breed, evident in the strength of her breeding program. Today's results are a testament to her commitment to nurturing and supporting others in the pursuit of a brighter future for the breed.

RESERVE BITCH CC - KLERKS – DELUCCHI, MR J & MRS A - KHLERKSHOF STARINA

Not a typical Khlerkshof bitch or my usual type. However, I found myself thoroughly impressed by this stunning light red beauty, her allure captivating me from the moment I laid eyes on her. To me, she epitomised beauty with a capital B. Her large, dark eyes immediately drew me in. A well-proportioned head perfectly positioned nose, a subtle wrinkle, and a lovely finish to her mouth give an expression of exceptional feminine quality. Upon closer examination, her good front assembly, crafted from slightly bowed sturdy legs, strong pasterns, and sizable feet, pleased me. While not the largest bitch in stature, her well-developed chest boasted ample depth, big rounded ribs, evident waist, level back, perfectly set tail, and firm lighter hindquarters all contributed to her wonderful shape. Lifting her, I was pleasantly surprised by her weight, a testament to her solid construction. Her flawlessly groomed coat & fringes were the icing on the cake, enhancing her already striking appearance. Watching her move effortlessly around the ring underscored her mastery of the Pekingese gait. Unlucky to meet the CC winner who just had a little more finish and maturity in her body on the day. Though she didn't clinch the CC on the day, it is evident to me that if campaigned she is destined to be a UK champion.

BEST PUPPY - KLERKS – DELUCCHI, MR J & MRS A - KHLERKSHOF ENGLISH MONARCH

Yet another noteworthy addition to this esteemed kennel. This young male has inherited a multitude of admirable qualities from his illustrious mother, a Pekingese I have long admired. His physique is robust and impeccably balanced, radiating exceptional soundness. His head is maturing nicely, maintaining a noticeable absence of exaggeration. His eyes are particularly captivating, harmonising with a well-positioned nose and good finish to his mouth. His front assembly is textbook, boasting generous thickness of bone. Despite his youth, his chest is notably well-developed, and he has a superb, barrelled rib cage. Further enhancing his balance are a flat back, high tail set, and sturdy hindquarters. His proportions adhere meticulously to the correct height-to-length ratio, with a front-loaded weight distribution when lifted. While his light red coat is in transition, it was meticulously groomed. On the move, he effortlessly demonstrates the characteristic gait.

SPECIAL BEGINNERS DOG

1ST CLIFTON’S HEMMINGSWAY MARLEY AT CLIFCASTLE

A two-and-a-half-year-old silver fawn with the darkest of masks. He's of a heavier type, yet there's still plenty to admire. I particularly liked his masculine expression. On the table, he handles well, displaying a thickset build and feeling heavy when lifted. Judging by his excellent muscle tone, I suspect he gets plenty of exercise. His coat and fringes are in good condition, and well presented by his owner. He moved steadily around the ring, perfectly in tune with his handler. Hopefully, his owner is enjoying their experience together in the show ring and she will continue to be involved in the breed for a long time.

MINOR PUPPY DOG

No entries

PUPPY DOG

1ST KLERKS – DELUCCHI, MR J & MRS A - KHLERKSHOF ENGLISH MONARCH

2ND BLAKEWAY, MS H - KHLERKSHOF ENGLISH MONARCH

I'm delighted to see this well-known, successful exhibitor back in the show ring after a few years. He's the litter brother of the winner, sharing many of the same attributes. Upon closer examination, he handles well and is thickset, just like his brother. He's very sound and, while on the move, pulls himself together and moves with the desired gait which is very pleasing to the eye. He has a lovely puppy coat that was groomed very well. Currently, his brother simply has a more finished face.

JUNIOR DOG

1ST MORLEY, MISS E - LIZLANMOR NEVISON

POST GRADUATE DOG

1ST EASDON & MARTIN, MESSRS A & P – YAKEE A BLAST FROM THE PAST

A fawn brindle with a black mask, just shy of his 2nd birthday, embodies the hallmark traits expected from this renowned kennel. He boasts excellent, big dark eyes, impeccable pigment, a well-defined nose leather, clean wrinkle, and a nice finish to his mouth, all contributing to his quality expression. Upon hands-on examination, he proves to be a small yet well-formed dog with good substance. When lifted, he exhibits a weight that is appropriately distributed and in keeping with his size. Cloaked in a full, well-presented coat, with lovely flowing fringes, he certainly looks the part. On the move, he maintains a steady pace, further affirming his quality.

2ND ROBERTS, MRS S – WYN-D-HILL FABULOUS FRANKIE AT KLERKSHOF

Approaching his third birthday, he's beginning to flourish. Pale fawn with a black mask, he perfectly embodies my ideal size for a male of this breed. With a quality expression, his lovely eyes are complemented by a well-defined nose leather and neat clean wrinkle. During my assessment on the table, I found him to be sound and enough substance for his size. His coat and fringes are in excellent condition, and the presentation and handling of this lovely Pekingese were first-class. I observed in the catalogue that he is the sire of the reserve bitch CC.

3RD LUND MISS S – YAKEE THE SUN GOD AT MAGNETIZZAM

LIMIT DOG

1ST MORLEY, MISS E- KHLERKSHOF WE WILL ROCK YOU AT LIZLANMOR

2ND OADES, MRS B - BRENTOY MAX POWER

I have always admired this five-year-old, unexaggerated, thick-set fawn. Notably, his head is large and wide, has those famous Brentoy eyes that contribute to his quality expression. When handled, I discovered his legs are sturdy, boasting heavy bone, large feet, and firm pasterns. With a broad and deep chest, he possesses a well-proportioned, generously sprung rib cage. Overall, he exudes soundness, complemented by an adequate coat and fringes to complete the overall picture. He moved steadily around the ring and was presented in excellent condition.

OPEN DOG

1ST OADES, MRS B - BRENTOY ZANDER

A quality five-year-old black dog who commands attention. When it comes to black dogs, scrutinising their expression is often necessary, but not with this one. I wouldn't change a single thing about his face. The size and shape of his head is correct. Once again, he possesses those special eyes we've come to expect from this kennel. His nose and wrinkle are just right. When I had the chance to assess him hands-on, he continued to impress. Structurally, he's very good, with thick slightly bowed front legs featuring tight elbows, big ribcage, a level back, evident waist, and sound hind legs. He exhibits excellent muscle tone and moves effortlessly around the ring. His crowning glory is his magnificent jet-black coat, which has the ideal texture and length, complemented by thick fringes that beautifully frame his face. As expected, from this very experienced handler he was expertly presented and handled. Fractionally larger than my two principal winners, he still falls within the ideal weight range. He headed up a very strong open dog class and If I were able to award three CC's, he would undoubtedly have received one of them.

2ND HEAP & RANSOME, MR & MRS & MR A & J & A LORRAINE – SHIERA D’ARTAGNAN JW

Another five-year-old male, this time a red with a black mask. He represents a different type compared to the winner and is typical of his breeding. There's much to admire about him, particularly his size & shape. He possesses a wide and shallow head with an open face, his lovely big eyes contribute to his charming expression. Despite being of a smaller type, he handles well and has sufficient bone and body proportionate to his size. When lifted, I was pleasantly surprised by his weight. His coat and fringes are sufficient and impeccably groomed. As he moved, he confidently displayed himself. For top awards, I prefer just a bit more finish, but overall, he is a quality dog.

3RD EASDON & MARTIN, MESSRS A & P – CH YAKEE EXPECTING MIRACLES

SPECIAL BEGINNERS BITCH

1ST POOLE, MISS K – KOCHO DOLLY DAYDREAM

What a lovely start to judging my bitch classes. At just six months old and only her second show, she shows lots of potential. She has a big head, lovely dark eyes, a sensible nose leather with good nostrils, clean wrinkle, and a nice finish to her mouth. Her expression is appealing, and her pigment is excellent. When I placed my hands on her, I found she has a very good front, ample bone, and a good body for her age. She has a nice puppy coat and moves with confidence. Her handler did an excellent job of presenting and handling her. Although she is still a bit raw, she shows great promise. Best puppy bitch. This exhibitor must be congratulated on breeding this quality bitch puppy. I later learned she has won the special beginners group.

2ND CLIFTON, MRS K – LIZLANMOR QUEENIE PANINI AT CLIFCASTLE

A 15-month-old silver fawn with a black mask, there's a lot to like about this little show girl. I appreciated her expression, and her pigment is excellent. For her size, she has sufficient bone and body. It appears she is just coming back into coat; however, her handler has done an excellent job presenting her. She clearly adores her owner, which was very apparent during her movement. My ideal is a larger type of bitch; therefore, she lacks the size and substance of my winners. However, that is just my preference; others favour a smaller, more feminine type. Good luck with her.

3RD MORLEY, MASTER LANCE – KHLERKSHOF TRINKET AT LIZLANMOR

MINOR PUPPY BITCH

1ST POOLE, MISS K – KOCHO DOLLY DAYDREAM

2ND BLAKEWAY, MS H – RICKENNYS TIGERLILY AT BELLABLAKE

An 8-month-old light red with bags of personality, she never stopped wagging her tail. Like the winner, there is much to admire. I was particularly taken with her expression; her eyes and every other feature of her face are correct. She has a good front and a nice body for her age. Her puppy coat was well-groomed, and she moved well. She stood in front of her two sisters as she was slightly better schooled on the day. However, the sisters are a lovely trio of bitch puppies.

3rd DRISCOLL MS J & ALDRED MISS M – RICKENNYS PHOEBE

PUPPY BITCH

1ST POOLE, MISS K – KOCHO SHOOTING STAR

Litter sister to the winner of the previous two classes, she shares many similarities with her sibling. She is light red in colour with a black mask. For her size, her head is large, and she has lovely dark eyes, a good nose leather with well-formed nostrils, sensible clean wrinkle, and a nice finish to her mouth. Her expression pleased me, and her pigment is good. Upon examination, I found she has a good front, good bone, and a good body for one so young. Her puppy coat is coming through, and she moved with confidence. Again, her handler did an excellent job presenting and handling her. At this moment, I believe her sister has the edge, but only time will tell.

JUNIOR BITCH

1ST MORLEY, MISS E – LIZLANMOR ESSENCE OF PEARL

There is much to admire about this young red bitch who is just out of puppy. She is unquestionably the size and shape I most admire in a Pekingese bitch. Her head is large and wide, with dark eyes and excellent nose leather with well-formed nostrils. I liked the finish to her mouth, and her pigmentation is A1. From here, things only got better. As with this exhibitor's two males, her front assembly is textbook perfect. This is achieved through a combination of thick-boned, slightly bowed front legs, tight elbows, and big feet. For her age, her chest is well-developed and fits neatly between her front legs. Her ribcage is well-sprung, her waistline is evident, her neck is fairly short, her back is level, her tail set is spot on, and her back legs are correctly shaped and well-muscled. When I lifted her to assess her weight, I was suitably impressed. She is heavy, with her weight undoubtedly front-loaded. Back on the table, I could see and feel that she has the correct height-to-length ratio. She is beginning to transition between her puppy and adult coat, but it is still in excellent condition and of the correct texture. On the move, after her handler calmed her down, she displayed the correct gait. After winning this class, I thought she might be my CC winner. However, in the challenge, I just preferred the finish to the faces of my two older principal winners.

2ND ROGERS, MRS C – RALSHAMS LADY MADONNA

I understand this exhibitor has been unwell recently; however, she is old school and knows you don’t make champions up at home. This seventeen-month-old substantial light red with a black mask has caught my eye since I first saw her. I can confidently say she had my favourite expression of the day—it melts me. Her big dark eyes are captivating, and her nose is black, short, and broad with sensible nostrils. The wrinkle is evident but well-placed, not obscuring her eyes, and the finish to her mouth is appealing. The size and shape of her head are correct, and her pigment is jet black. Her ears are shaped and placed correctly, with sufficient fringes that frame her gorgeous face. Like the winner, she has a very good front, with thick bone and perfectly sized feet. For one so young, her body is heavy, well-developed, and she has a lovely shape. When lifted, she is heavy, with her weight correctly distributed across her frame. She is a quality bitch that I would be proud to breed and own. Unfortunately, today she looked a little out of coat, and on the move, she didn’t give her all. However, I am still a fan, and I expect her coat to return and her enthusiasm for the show ring. I believe she should gain her title and become a worthy champion.

3RD CLIFTON, MRS KAREN – LIZLANMOR QUEENIE PANINI AT CLIFCASTLE

POST GRADUATE BITCH

1ST DAVENPORT, MRS CAROLE - GREYPORT GORGEOUS GUSSIE.

A four-year-old red bitch, she may not be the largest, but there is much to appreciate about her. Despite her size, she is chunky with a large head and an appealing expression. On closer examination, she reveals a very nice front assembly with ample bone for her size. She has a lovely shape, and her limbs are well-muscled. When lifted, she is surprisingly heavy. Currently, she lacks the finish of the main winners, but she would be a valuable addition to any kennel. With the right stud dog, she has the potential to produce the next generation of successful dogs for this breeder.

2ND MARINA, MRS J – MARINBOX MURDER BY THE BOOK

Another good, honest red bitch, she possesses many of the traits we expect to find in our breed. She has a large head, a good dark eye, excellent pigment, and a pleasing expression. Her bone structure is strong, and her front assembly is well-constructed. She has a good rib cage, a level back, and a neat waistline. She is sound and moved well on a loose lead. Her coat and fringes are of the correct texture and volume, and she was presented in A1 condition. Like the class winner, she has the potential to produce something nice if mated to a suitable dog.

LIMIT BITCH

1ST KLERKS – DELUCCHI, MR J & MRS A - KHLERKSHOF STARINA

2ND EASDON & MARTIN MESSRS A & P – YAKEE JASMINE

A two-and-a-half-year-old light red feminine show girl with a black mask, she has many qualities to admire. Her head is large, wide, and shallow, complemented by a lovely expression. Experienced breeders know how crucial a large dark eye is to achieve this. Her nose leather is appropriately sized with good nostrils; unfortunately, she was experiencing a bit of winter nose on the day. Her front assembly is good, with decent bone. She has a good spring of ribs, a neat waist, level back and she is surprisingly heavy when lifted. Her crowning glory is her coat and fringes, which have the right amount of volume and an excellent texture. Although she was pulling away a bit on the move, at times, her correct gait was evident.

OPEN BITCH

This was the strongest class of the day.

1ST SMALL DR G, DR S, DR N, Dr C - CH KHLERKSHOF EVE OF SWAGGERBOOT

2nd KLERKS – DELUCCHI, MR J & MRS A - KHLERKSHOF COUNTRY ROSE

I would describe this bitch as a classic Khlerkshof type, a three-year-old fawn who is now at her peak. She has a large, wide, shallow head with a clean and unexaggerated expression. Her eyes are large, round, and dark, and her nose is excellent. She has a sensible and clean wrinkle, and the finish of her mouth is very good. She boasts wonderful thick ear fringes that beautifully frame her face. I expected to be impressed when I handled her, and she did not disappoint. Her legs are big-boned, slightly bowed, and very tight to the chest, with feet like small saucers. She has a front that all specialists dream about. With a deep and broad chest, an impressive ribcage, a level back, and a high tail set that impressed me immensely. Her fore and hind legs are well-muscled. When lifted off the table it confirms where her weight comes from. She carries a coat of the correct texture, which was beautifully groomed. On the floor, she moved in perfect harmony with her handler. She was a top contender for higher honours today. However, in the end, my preference for a slightly softer expression tipped the balance in favour of the other two Khlerkshof bitches. Will make a very worthy champion. I’ve always believed the strength of a kennel lies in their bitches; this kennel is testament to my belief.

3RD ROGERS, MRS C – CH KHLERKSHOF SARA AT RALSHAMS

ANN OFFILER

STSANJA PEKINGESE