Bath Canine Society

Bath Canine Society

Monday 26th May 2025

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the Committee of Bath Canine Society for inviting me to judge. It was both an honour and a privilege to be entrusted with awarding my first set of Challenge Certificates. This occasion was especially meaningful to me, as the Dogue de Bordeaux is a breed I have devoted much of my life to and one that lives deeply in my heart. To have the opportunity to assess and celebrate the breed I hold such affection and respect for was truly unforgettable.

We were fortunate to have the benefit of a generously sized ring, which allowed ample space for the dogs to move freely and showcase their construction. Despite the blustery weather and grey skies, the atmosphere ringside remained upbeat, with a wonderful sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship among exhibitors and spectators alike.

I was particularly pleased to observe clear improvements in skin condition, with far fewer instances of irritation or excessive wrinkling than I’ve seen in years past. This is a credit to the care, attention, and dedication of breeders and handlers. On the whole, exhibits were presented in sensible weight—some could do with a touch more tone, but nothing of major concern. I was especially pleased to see confident temperaments across the board, even in some that were unsettled by the wind and noise. There was no sign of aggression or instability, and all dogs conducted themselves with the steady composure expected of the breed.

I was also reassured that none of the dogs gave me concern in the areas we have sometimes needed to watch more closely. Eye health was good, with lids in correct contact and well-shaped eyes. Jaw alignment and nostril openness were also generally sound. Hindquarters, while naturally varied in angulation and strength, were serviceable and moved with functionality.

That said, I must highlight one area that warrants attention: Toplines. There is a noticeable decline in overall strength and levelness of toplines. A firm, level topline is not only essential to breed type but also crucial to sound, functional movement. I would urge breeders to remain mindful of this important feature in their future breeding decisions.

Overall, I left the ring feeling optimistic about the future of the breed and full of admiration for the work being done. Judging such a strong and well-supported entry was a genuine pleasure. I am truly grateful to every exhibitor who brought their Dogue under me. Your commitment, preparation, and passion for the breed were evident in each exhibit, and I thoroughly enjoyed going over each dog

Veteran Dog Entries:0

Minor Puppy Dog Entries: 2 Absentees: 1

1st Place 5721 - Nesaluma Atomboy (Mrs S & Mrs E Bailey)Seven months old and very much in the early stages of development, this young male shows many of the essential hallmarks outlined in the breed standard. He presents a pleasing head with clean lines, well-set eyes of good shape, and well-opened nostrils, giving a typical expression. While he still has some maturing to do particularly in rear strength and coordination he moved out with enthusiasm and gave glimpses of what’s to come.

Puppy Dog Entries: 0 Absentees: 0

Junior Dog Entries: 3 Absentees: 1

1st – 5750 Bourgeoisie Chase N’Status (Mrs G Mott) There was a lot to like about both Dogues in this class, and both show great promise for the future. Ultimately, this young male secured first place on his drive and purposeful movement. An impressive youngster with excellent substance and a commanding presence. He boasts a masculine headpiece with a broad skull, well-defined stop, and expressive mobile wrinkle. His topline was correct and held firmly both standing and on the move. Good width and depth of chest. He moved out with reach and drive, covering the ground efficiently and confidently. Still developing, but showing all the right pieces coming together.

2nd – 5740 Bobiso Amos (Mr R Iseton)A very promising young male with lots to admire. Of good overall type and balance, he possesses strong bone, tight feet, and well-developed muscular quarters. His head complements his frame well, with a well-defined stop, beautiful expression, dark eyes, a well-marked chin, and wide, open nostrils. His dark coat adds to his overall appeal. He moved out well, showing clean, purposeful movement. Just a little more maturity is needed to complete the picture, but he is certainly one to watch as he continues to develop.

Yearling Dog Entries: 3 Absentees: 1

1st – 5747 Bourgeoisie Back to Black (Miss S McGinty) A striking black mask male with impressive presence and clean outlines. He has a masculine, well-proportioned head with a broad skull, nicely set oval eyes, and a well-defined stop. Mobile wrinkle was evident and added to his overall appeal. He carries a strong neck into well-laid shoulders, and his topline was firm and correct, both standing and on the move. He has a well-developed forechest and outstanding spring of rib, offering depth and width through the brisket, with elbows set neatly. Viewed in profile, he presents a balanced and powerful outline. His hindquarters were well muscled with good angulation, which powered his movement he moved out well with his handler, covering the ground with confidence. Still young, but showing excellent potential and ring presence.

2nd – 5723 Rydogues The Mighty Bowser (Mr R S Black)A well-built young male of good type, showing plenty of promise for the future. He has a strong head with good width of skull, a powerful muzzle, and excellent well-opened nostrils. His eyes were clear, expressive, and of correct shape. His topline was particularly good—strong and level both when stacked and on the move. He has good depth through the chest and developing strength in the quarters. He needs to settle more on the move to fully showcase his construction, but when he does, he gives a glimpse of things to come. Not quite the ring presence of 1st today, but with maturity, he should continue to strengthen and fill his frame well.

Novice Dog Entries: 0 Absentees: 0

Post Graduate Dog Entries: 3 Absentees: 2

1st Piechottka Incredible Hulk JW (Mrs T A & Mr M R Shopland)A well-presented and beautifully balanced male. He possesses an excellent overall outline, with a firm and level topline that he maintained effortlessly both when standing and on the move. His movement was powerful and fluid, showing excellent reach and drive — covering the ground with purpose and ease. His head is of correct proportions, broad but clean, with a strong upturn of chin and a well-defined stop. He displays a classic Dogue expression enhanced by well-set, clear eyes and good wrinkle. The skull-to-muzzle ratio is well judged, and his open nostrils and good width of muzzle contribute to a confident, masculine profile. Bone and muscle tone were well matched to his frame, and he was shown in excellent condition. A male of real quality and presence, who should continue to impress as he matures.

Limit Dog Entries: 5 Absentees: 0

1st – 5736 Piechottka Goldeneye (Mrs L & Miss M Hodgkin & Lee).An impressive, well-conditioned male who presented a clean and balanced outline throughout. He stood square, with good width through the chest and a strong, level topline maintained with ease both standing and in motion. His head is of excellent proportion — broad yet clean — with a defined stop, correct eye shape, wide open nostrils, and a well-developed upturn of chin, all contributing to a classic and powerful expression. He moved with real purpose and strength, demonstrating both reach and drive with accurate footfall and coordination. Shown in hard, fit condition, he clearly has massive potential and the qualities of a top specimen. However, his overall performance was slightly compromised by some inconsistencies in handling, which meant he wasn’t quite shown to his full potential on the day. That said, a very complete balanced Dogue who pushed hard and is undoubtedly one to watch.

2nd – 5730 Bourgeoisie Raise The Roof at Henchbull (Miss K Goodman) A strong, well-muscled male of good proportions, presenting a clean outline and plenty of breed type. He has a masculine head with clear eyes, a well-padded muzzle, and a defined stop. Moved out with purpose, although slightly less settled than 1st today, and just lacked the same degree of fluidity and drive. Ribbing is deep and well-sprung, and he was shown in fit condition. A dog of substance and potential who, with a little more consistency on the move, could challenge strongly.

3rd Place

5755 - Wendisal Vert (Miss L Prendergast)

Reserve (4th Place) 5735 - Roiliondogue Hercules (Mr S I & Mrs J Hargreaves)

Very Highly Commended (5th Place) 5758Sidhewhytch's Rhion (Miss S.k Fowler)

Open Dog Entries: 5 Absentees: 0

1st – 5726 Ch Loggerheads Thor (Mr C & Mr M Brunger & Rainger)                                                                                                    Best Dog CC                                                                                                                                                                                                  A true showman who commanded attention from the moment he entered the ring. A powerful, eye-catching male with a confident demeanour and plenty of presence. His head is typical of the breed broad and masculine, with a well-defined stop, mobile wrinkle, and a strong, well-proportioned muzzle. Good width to the jaw, correct curvature, and a prominent chin, complemented by the appropriate forbidding expression. His neck is thick and muscular, flowing into a strong front. Ribbing is long, deep and well-sprung, with breadth through the loin and a moderate slope to the croup, finished with a well-set tail. Shown in excellent condition, he utilised his construction effectively, moving with reach and drive and covering the ground with a purposeful, fluid stride. A commanding dog who thoroughly deserved Best Dog on the day.

2nd – 5741 Ch Bobiso Matteo (Mr R Iseton)                                                                                                                                    Reserve Dog CC                                                                                                                                                                                        High-quality male of excellent type and construction. He presents a strong, well-proportioned head with a broad skull and an appropriate forbidding expression, enhanced by correctly shaped eyes and a clearly defined stop. The muzzle shows the desired upturn and depth, with good width and a strong, well-developed jaw. His overall balance is honest, strong, and true. He carries a well-muscled neck that flows cleanly into well-laid shoulders and a deep, well-sprung ribcage. His topline is firm and held correctly both when standing and on the move. He moved out with confidence and purpose, covering the ground with a fluid, measured stride. He lacked just a touch motivation that gave the winner his edge on the day, he remains a worthy Champion and a fine example of the breed. I was pleased to award him Reserve Best Dog.

3rd Place 5745 - Biscay Winston for Desquire JW (Mr D & Mrs S Kenyon)

Reserve (4th Place) 5756 - Wendisal You Dont Own Me (Miss L Prendergast)

Very Highly Commended (5th Place) 5733 - Aibrean Rocketman at Roiliondogue (Mr S I & Mrs J Hargreaves)

Special Beginners Entries: 1 Absentees: 0

5758 - Sidhewhytch's Rhion (Miss S.k Fowler) A male of moderate size, presenting a clean, balanced outline. He possesses a pleasing head with well-opened nostrils, correct dentition, and a gentle, masculine expression. His overall construction is sound, with enough bone and substance to give a solid impression without exaggeration.Topline was firm and held consistently both standing and on the move. He demonstrated good rear angulation and moved out freely with purpose and accuracy. There was a fluidity to his stride that reflected his honest structure. A tidy, dog who gave a true account of himself on the day.

2338 Veteran Bitch Entries: 2 Absentees:2

Puppy Bitch Entries: 1 Absentees: 0

1st – 5728 From Who I Am Kalin Red Beauty Bordeaux (Imp Nld) (Mrs J Gaughan) A confident and promising young bitch who caught the eye with her self-assured presence and clean, feminine outline. Her head is developing beautifully, with balanced proportions, a strong, well-padded muzzle, well-defined stop, and expressive eyes that give a soft but alert expression. The nostrils are well opened, and the chin is marked and clearly defined, enhancing her classic look. She carries a strong, clean neckline into well-laid shoulders and held a steady topline throughout. Rear angulation is evident, and her muscle tone is maturing nicely. She moved out freely and with enthusiasm, showing both balance and a glimpse of what’s to come as she continues to develop.

Junior Bitch Entries: 3 Absentees: 1

1st – 5753 Bourgeoisie Bon Vivant (Mr S & Mrs A Powell) A beautifully balanced bitch who combines elegance and strength with a refined, feminine outlook. Her head is clean and well-proportioned, showing a distinct stop, open nostrils, and a well-developed, padded muzzle that enhances her soft yet alert expression. Expressive eyes add to her overall charm and breed type. She has good depth through the chest and a strong, correctly angled forehand that complements her well-angulated rear. Her topline was firm and held correctly both standing and on the move. She moved with purpose and fluidity, covering the ground with ease. A sound and honest bitch, shown in fit condition and handled to best advantage.

2nd – 5722 Pasya Bernaux De Picardi avec Nesaluma (Imp Pol) (Mrs S & Mrs E Bailey) A feminine and well-presented bitch of pleasing breed type, displaying refinement without lacking substance. Her head is well-proportioned, with a gentle expression, clean lines, and correct eye shape. She presents a level topline both standing and, on the move, with a well-set tail and strong loin. Rear angulation is developing nicely, which allowed her to move with balance and rhythm, showing good extension behind. Her dentition is clean with a correct bite. Although still coming together, she shows a lot of potential and should mature into a very promising example of the breed.

Yearling Bitch Entries: 2 Absentees: 0 

 1st - 5727 Bobiso Miss Bianca (Mrs J Gaughan) Impressive female with a lovely blend of power and femininity. Her head is classic in type, showing excellent proportion, clean lines, and a clearly defined stop. She displays a correct and expressive medial line that enhances her overall expression. Ears are well set and of good size, framing the head without interfering with the skull’s outline. Eyes are correctly shaped, nostrils wide, and chin pronounced, all contributing to a strong yet distinctly feminine outlook. She held her topline well both standing and on the move. Her well-angulated rear and strong muscle tone enabled purposeful, fluid movement. A quality bitch who impressed for both type and performance and one to watch in future.

2nd – 5751 Bourgeoisie Vue Parfait (Mrs G Mott) Stylish young black mask female with much to like. Feminine in expression, with a proportionate head, clear stop, and good width through the muzzle. Well-laid shoulders and well-angled hindquarters provided the framework for smooth, coordinated movement. She moved out well, showing clean footfall, reach and drive with good purpose. Maintained a steady rhythm around the ring and held herself with confidence. Just a little more maturity is needed to complete the picture, but she is a sound and promising young bitch.

Novice Bitch Entries: 0 Absentees: 0

Post Graduate Bitch Entries: 2 Absentees: 0

1st – 5737 Piechottka Mustang Sally (Mrs L & Miss M Hodgkin & Lee) Well-constructed bitch of good size and bone, retaining a clear feminine outline. Strong, defined head with correct proportions, well-shaped eyes, open nostrils, and a powerful, balanced muzzle. A strong, muscular neck flows cleanly into well-laid shoulders, giving her a pleasing front assembly and allowing her to carry herself with purpose. Her topline was firm and held correctly both standing and on the move. Rear angulation and drive were a strength — she moved with power, reach, and fluency. In hard condition and presented to advantage throughout.

2nd – 5754 Bourgeoisie Here Comes Edna (Mr S & Mrs A Powell) a beautifully balanced bitch with excellent breed type and a feminine yet powerful expression. Her head is well-proportioned, with a defined stop, clean lines, and well-set ears enhancing her classic outline. Though slightly more moderate in frame than 1st, she remains substantial and carries good bone and substance throughout. Maintained a strong, level topline and demonstrated excellent rear movement fluid, purposeful and true driven by well-developed, angulated hindquarters. A very close decision between the first two. Handled confidently and clearly at ease in the ring; a quality bitch who impressed.

Class 2345. Limit Bitch

1st – 5732 Ironmastiff Kennel Zartha (Mr S Hamblett)

Best Bitch CC and Best of Breed  

An outstanding female who captured attention from the moment she entered the ring. A bitch of excellent substance while retaining a distinctly feminine outline. Her head is powerful yet clean, with correct proportions, a defined stop, well-set ears, open nostrils and an expressive, confident outlook. She boasts a superb topline — firm and level both standing and, on the move, supported by a strong neck and well-laid shoulders. Bone is just right, providing strength without heaviness. Her movement was exceptional: fluid, balanced and driven, with excellent rear angulation and coordination. A beautifully constructed and balanced exhibit with real ring presence. Delighted to award her Best Bitch and ultimately Best of Breed. While the male was a very worthy winner in his own right, this female had the edge on the day through her overall balance and harmony of construction. She held her topline with greater consistency, showing fluid, effortless movement with excellent reach and drive. Her feminine expression and natural ring presence completed the picture, giving her that final advantage in the challenge.

2nd – 5744 Tissie's Red Dawn (Miss J L Judd)

Reserve Bitch CC

Beautiful bitch of excellent proportions, displaying harmony throughout, combining substance with a clean, feminine outline. She has a true-to-type head—broad, well-defined, with a clear stop and balanced proportions—offering a confident yet gentle expression. Excellent ear set and open nostrils further enhance her classic appearance. Her topline was a particular strength, firm and level both standing and, on the move, demonstrating sound construction and overall balance. Hindquarters are well-angulated and muscled, allowing her to move with precision, fluidity, and purpose. She moved with coordination and ease, showcasing the unity of her construction. Calm, confident, and unexaggerated in her presentation, she carried herself with quiet authority and presence. Delighted to award her Reserve Best Bitch.

Open Bitch Entries: 5 Absentees: 2

1st – 5752 Bourgeoisie Avada Kedavra (Ms L Mott) Classic feminine type with strength throughout and a clean, feminine outline. Excellent head proportions, expressive eyes, and a strong jawline, contributing to a typical and confident expression. Well-laid shoulders and a strong neck flowed smoothly into a firm, level topline, which she maintained both standing and on the move. Excellent rear angulation and muscle tone gave her drive and fluency on the move, with a balanced, fluid stride that filled the ring. She worked exceptionally well with her handler, who got the very best out of her. Pleased to award her the class.

2nd – 5762 Nld Ch Piechottka Miss Moneypenny JW Cw23 (Mrs T A & Mr M R Shopland) Elegant and typey bitch of excellent breed standard. Broad skull with clean lines and excellent nostrils, giving a confident and correct expression. Well-set ears and strong, well-proportioned muzzle enhanced her overall balance. Her topline was firm and held well both standing and on the move. She pushed hard with strong rear drive and correct angulation, covering the ground with precision and fluidity. Shown in fit condition and handled to advantage just met strong competition on the day.

3rd 5734 Roiliondogue Athena

Judge,

Tracey Harrison (Cerisier)