• Show Date: 07/03/2024
  • Show Type: Championship Show
  • Judged by: Dave Killilea Contact Judge
  • Published Date: 10/03/2024

Crufts

Breed: Utility Group

Crufts 2024 – Utility Group – Thursday 7th March 2024

Judge: Dave Killilea

It was an honour and a privilege to be given the opportunity to judge the Utility Group at Crufts 2024. Thank you to the committee for their hospitality. I shortlisted eight dogs from a lovely group; the French Bulldog, German Spitz Klein, Japanese Akita Inu, Lhasa Apso, Miniature Schnauzer, Standard Poodle, Tibetan Spaniel and Tibetan Terrier.

Group 1 - Into the spotlight went the amazing Frenchie, 759 Ch/Esp Ch Chelmbull Rocket Man Ww (Miss A & Mr D, Mr A & Mrs L Cund & Harrop). So typical and mature in head with super expression, totally balanced in outline and excellent topline. Put down in hard condition, so fit and healthy with fabulous movement; he looked as if he could go all day! Congratulations to his breeder for producing such a super ambassador for the breed.

Group 2 – 2325 - Tibetan Spaniel, Ch Castafiore Riddhima (Mr A & Mr L Moran & Prouve). Loved her femininity, scored in head, so correct in front, in excellent coat and condition. Excelled in the rear both standing and moving. So pleased to award her one of the top spots in this super shortlist. She looked so confident and at ease with her competent handler.

Group 3 – 1763 – Standard Poodle, Ch/Am Ch Hallifax Hightide Hedonist at Afterglow (AI) Imp USA (Mrs M, Mr J & Mr T Galloway, Lynn & Isherwood). Turned out in immaculate condition and of the quality we have come to expect from this kennel. Outstanding outline, both stood and on the move. Classic head with super expression, strong through the neck and shoulders and firm in the rear. Handled to perfection by his great handler who always gets the best out of his dogs.

Group 4 – 2422 - Tibetan Terrier - Am Gchg Barnstorm One Chance Fancy by Dzine (Mrs D & Mrs P & Ms L & Ms M Planche & Bernardo & Cook & Demers). The overall type and quality of this bitch was superb. Another one immaculately presented. Loved her head, excellent in front, beautiful outline, strong through the rear and so correct in tail-set and carriage. So eye-catching on the move with another handler who knew how to get the best from their charge.