Birmingham Dog Show Society Ltd

National Dog Show 2024 - Working Veteran Group

A quality group which was a pleasure to judge and great credit to the owners for keeping their veterans in tip top form, many of whom could easily still challenge the best of their breed.

Group 1. Thompson-Morgan & Morgan’s Ch Belleville Anjo Negro. 8 yr old Portuguese Water Dog right out of the top drawer and presented in super order. I thought him so good for type and it was a delight to get hands on. All male, well balanced with correct length of neck for the breed, firm topline, excellent ribbing, muscular loin and tail good for both set and carriage. Quality head of good proportions with dark expressive eyes which are placed well apart. Faultless construction and moved freely all through with excellent carriage. Delighted to see he went on to take Best Veteran in Show under Frank Kane.

Group 2. Allen-Davern & Hughes’ Ch Siberiadrift Keep The Love for Zimavolk JW ShCM. 7 yr old Siberian Husky. This boy was hot on the heels of the winner and another who was so good to go over. Presenting a first class outline and moderate throughout. Arched neck of good length to balance, level topline, correct ribbing which is carried well back, lean yet muscular loin and tail of correct set and carriage. Most attractive head with well furred ears, the best of eyes and correct dentition. Stands true and all times and gaited freely with desired light, smooth action.

Group 3. Hollifield & Humphreys’ Ch Richearon Palden. This 8 yr old Tibetan Mastiff dog is one I have long admired and his sound construction is a sheer joy in a breed where often compromises have to be made. Balanced in outline with slightly arched neck, firm level back, well sprung ribs, muscular loin and well feathered tail set on high. Quality head with super expression; broad skull, dark expressive eyes, ears of correct set and blunt muzzle. Well boned and shown in excellent condition. Free, steady action.

Group 4. Ellis’ Goodsouls Rumour Has It It’s Falkor. 7 yr old German Pinscher bitch who I have done well for on a number of occasions and she really has done her breed proud. Still on form and another who was first in line when construction and movement were being dished out. Totally feminine, she is correct for size and pleased in outline with well arched, elegant neck, firm topline, correct ribbing and tail good for set and carriage. Attractive head with parallel planes and good eye and ear.

Also, making the cut were the Dobermann, Lafford, Groves & Lafford’s Lateagain Satisfaction JW ShCEx VW, the Alaskan Malamute, Loades’ Ch Snowolf Black Ice Buddy and the Newfoundland, Sayle’s Ch Baranova Top Gallant.

Judge: Tim Ball