Southern Counties Canine Association

I would like to thank the Committee for the invitation to judge, particularly as this was my first Championship Show appointment. As Hovawarts were the first breed I qualified to judge, it made the opportunity especially meaningful. My thanks go to my ring stewards, who kept everything running smoothly, and to the exhibitors for their entries.

PD (1,1) PGD (2,2)

Open Dog (2,1) 1st Mrs K Woodger’s Hightimbers Ticket to Moon A six-year-old black and gold dog of pleasing size, presenting a masculine and well-balanced outline. He has correct head planes, although I would prefer a slightly higher ear set to complete the expression. Dentition is correct. His muscular neck flows smoothly into correctly angled shoulders, giving a pleasing outline. He is well constructed through the body, with ribs carried well back and good spring beyond the elbows, contributing to his overall balance and substance. In motion, he covered the ground freely and with purpose, maintaining a steady and efficient gait. He has a lovely, friendly temperament which complemented his presentation today. BD, BOS.

Veteran Bitch (1,0) 1st Mrs C & Mr J Mclure’s Kanukalos Burletta VW (ai) An outstanding 11-year-old black and gold bitch who quietly owned the ring from the moment she stepped in, showing the calm confidence so characteristic of the breed. She presents a feminine head with a calm, intelligent expression. A well-proportioned neck flows cleanly into well-laid shoulders, giving a balanced and harmonious outline. She held a firm topline both standing and in motion, which is particularly commendable at her age. Her forehand is straight with good bone, leading to tight, well-arched feet, and she is well angulated throughout, allowing her to move with ease and efficiency. In motion, she remains steady and purposeful, covering the ground effortlessly. She is beautifully schooled and presented to perfection, and her condition speaks volumes for the care and dedication of her owners. A true credit to them and a pleasure to judge. BB, BOB.

Open Bitch (1,0) 1st Mrs C & Mr J Mclure’s Hightimbers Ticket to Dream at Kanukalos Littermate to the Open Dog winner, this six-year-old feminine bitch is of pleasing size and overall balance, with the kind, steady temperament you would expect. She is well put together with sufficient depth of chest and strong loins, giving her a solid framework. Her hindquarters are strong and well-muscled, and she uses herself well in motion, carrying her tail correctly. I would have preferred a firmer topline, but nevertheless a quality bitch who was simply unlucky to come up against the veteran in the challenge today.