Leeds City & District Canine Association

LEEDS CHAMPIONSHIP DOG SHOW 2026

It was a pleasure and an honour to judge the Gundog Group at Leeds. My sincere thanks to the Officers and Committee for their kind invitation. Some lovely dogs here today and I was splitting hairs when I chose my shortlist.

My winner was the lovely feminine Pointer, Bäck’s Int Ch Wilchrimane Frangipani. She combines both strength with elegance. Classic head and expression with large, open nostrils. Clean neck and shoulders, good depth of brisket and ribs extend well back. Her clever handler moved her at exactly the right pace to demonstrate her free, driving action. It was a pleasure to judge her.

In second place I had the young Spaniel (American Cocker) Lynn and Crummey’s Afterglow Sultana. As one would expect from this kennel, this young bitch’s flat, silky coat was presented to perfection but was just the icing on a very good cake. She has a lovely melting expression, good breadth and depth of muzzle. Strong, slightly arched neck and decent forechest. Strong, well ribbed body with typical topline and tailset. Her showmansjip and movement was exemplary.

Group 3 was another bitch in the for of the Retriever (Flat Coated) Holland’s Sh Ch Woodfinch Highland Fairy At Flatcharm. Beautifully balanced and typical in all respects. Lovely head and a kind, intelligent expression. Excellent fporehand with good bone and nicely arched feet. Sound and free moving and she shows to best advantage.

Group 4 and flying the flag for the dogs was the Weimaraner, Charlish’s Sh Ch Gunalt The Hangover JW. A really handsome dog with a grand head and expression. Good depth of chest and firm, strong topline. Strong, well-muscled, moderately angulated hindquarters and this gave him a powerful, accurate stride.

I also shortlisted the German Wirehaired Pointer, Gordon Setter, Retriever (Golden), Spaniel (Clumber) and the Spaniel (Field).

Judge: Tom Mather