Darlington Dog Show Society Ltd

I would like to thank the officers and committee of Darlington Dog Show Society for inviting me to judge the Terrier Group at this prestigious and extremely well-run show. It was a great honour and a thoroughly enjoyable appointment.

Before commenting on my winners, I feel I must mention something which is becoming increasingly disappointing. It seems to be becoming the norm for some exhibitors to prejudge the likely Group placings before their dog has even entered the ring and been assessed by the Group judge. More concerning is when dogs that have won Best of Breed are subsequently withdrawn from the Group because their handlers have decided not to show them.

I find this particularly disappointing when professional handlers, including those holding senior positions within the Royal Kennel Club, choose not to bring a client's dog into the Group after it has been awarded Best of Breed. In my opinion, this shows little respect for the breed judge who considered that dog worthy of representing the breed in the Group, and it also denies the owner the opportunity for their dog to compete for further honours. A Group placing cannot and should not be assumed before the dogs have been judged.

That said, I was fortunate to have a quality Terrier Group, from which I shortlisted the Border Terrier, Bull Terrier (Miniature), Irish Terrier, Lakeland Terrier, Norfolk Terrier, Norwich Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier and West Highland White Terrier.

Group 1 – West Highland White Terrier

A dog I have admired from afar for some time, and he certainly did not disappoint when I finally had the opportunity to go over him. A beautifully balanced, compact and well-presented Westie, displaying the strength and substance required without any suggestion of coarseness. Excellent head with a keen, intelligent expression, dark eye and well-carried ears. Strong neck flowing into well-laid shoulders, good depth of body and well-ribbed, with powerful quarters. His harsh white coat was presented in first-class condition. On the move he was free, positive and purposeful, retaining his outline and displaying the confidence and unmistakable character of the breed. He demanded attention and was my Group winner.

Group 2 – Irish Terrier

A very smart, racy and typical Irish Terrier who immediately appealed for his balance and overall outline. Long, clean head with the correct expression, good length of neck into clean shoulders, excellent body proportions and strong, muscular quarters. His coat was hard and well presented, and he possessed the active, lively character one expects of the breed. He covered the ground freely and with purpose while maintaining his shape. I would personally prefer the ears to appear a little more natural, but this did not detract from his overall quality. A very worthy Group 2.

Group 3 – Norfolk Terrier

I have had the pleasure of placing this dog previously in a Group and was delighted to find him maintaining his quality. A lovely example of the breed: small, compact and strong, with good bone and substance without becoming heavy. Excellent head and expression, correct drop ears, good width of skull and strong muzzle. Well-balanced throughout, with a short, strong back, good rib and powerful hindquarters. His harsh jacket was in excellent condition. He moved soundly and freely with plenty of drive and displayed exactly the alert, fearless character I look for in a Norfolk. Group 3.

Group 4 – Staffordshire Bull Terrier

A powerful yet athletic Stafford who combined strength with balance and breed type. Broad, deep skull, pronounced cheek muscles, dark eye and a particularly pleasing expression. Strong, clean neck into well-placed shoulders, deep brisket, well-sprung ribs and muscular hindquarters. He was in excellent condition and showed the combination of strength, agility and activity that is so important in this breed. Sound and positive on the move, maintaining his balance and outline throughout. An impressive representative of the breed and deserving of Group 4.

My congratulations to all of the Best of Breed winners who came forward. The overall quality of my shortlist made the final decisions particularly enjoyable, and I thank all the exhibitors for giving me the opportunity to assess their dogs.

Phil Davies
Terrier Group Judge