Ashton In Makerfield Canine Society

Ashton-in-Makerfield Canine Society 28th February 26’ - First Day.

I would like to thank the Ashton-in-Makerfield committee for the kind invitation and opportunity to judge at this enjoyable show. It was a pleasure to assess such a lovely entry of dogs and to see the quality and enthusiasm shown by the exhibitors. My sincere thanks must also go to the stewards, who were highly capable, organised and attentive throughout the day. Their efficiency and support in the ring ensured the classes ran smoothly and made my task all the more enjoyable. I greatly appreciated their help and professionalism, which contributed greatly to a well-run and friendly show experience. 

Junior handling 6-11 years (6,3)

1st Jacob Perfitt-Jones. Eight-year-old handler entered the ring confidently with his veteran Alaskan Malamute, presenting a tidy and well-prepared partnership. Both handler and dog were smartly turned out, with the dog clean, well brushed and appropriately presented for the breed. The young handler demonstrated a natural rapport with his dog, maintaining calm communication and clear direction throughout the class. During the individual assessment, he handled the examination well, confidently showing the dog’s teeth and remaining composed while the judge went over the dog. His awareness of the judge’s position was commendable for a handler of his age, ensuring the dog remained visible at all times. When asked to perform the movement pattern, he moved the dog at a suitable pace for the breed, allowing the Alaskan Malamute to stride freely while maintaining control. His lines were mostly straight and his corners neat, showing good developing technique. The handler demonstrated excellent balance, keeping himself and the dog positioned evenly both when moving and when setting the dog up. Despite the dog’s veteran status and size, he managed the partnership with maturity and confidence. Overall, this young handler displayed strong presentation, rapport, and ring awareness, ultimately deserving the class win and going on to take Best Junior Handler.

2nd Paige Hooley. Ten-year-old handler presented her young Canadian Eskimo Dog in a well-prepared condition and demonstrating a pleasant partnership. She handled her dog with confidence for her age and maintained a steady pace on the move, allowing the dog to show its natural stride. Her patterns were clear and she kept good control of her dog throughout the class. During the individual assessment she remained composed; however, she would benefit from refining the showing of teeth slightly. With increased awareness of the judge’s position and care not to stand between the judge and the dog, this promising young handler should continue to progress well.

Junior handling 12-16 years (5,1)

1st Livia Boryc. Fourteen-year-old handler presented her Samoyed in excellent condition, with both handler and dog immaculately turned out. She demonstrated a confident and composed approach in the ring, setting her dog up neatly and ensuring it was presented to best advantage. Her handling showed good technical understanding, with clear, accurate patterns and a suitable pace that allowed the Samoyed to move freely and maintain its outline. Her lines were straight and corners well executed, reflecting a developing level of polish and ring awareness. During the individual assessment she remained calm and attentive, presenting the dog clearly for the judge and managing the examination with confidence. Her rapport with the dog was evident throughout, with the partnership working smoothly together and responding well to one another. This was a particularly strong performance from a capable young handler who demonstrated excellent presentation, technique, and ringcraft. Ultimately, she was narrowly pipped to Best Junior Handler by the winning young man whose rapport with his dog was truly unequivocal. Nevertheless, this young lady delivered a wonderful performance and should be proud of her handling, showing all the qualities required to continue achieving success in Junior Handling.

2nd Lizzy Symons. Twelve-year-old handler presented her eight-month-old Chinese Crested in a clean and tidy condition, with both handler and dog turned out appropriately for the ring. She showed a pleasant attitude and a developing partnership with her young dog, maintaining good focus throughout the class. For a young dog of this age, the pair worked together well and demonstrated promising rapport. During the individual assessment she remained composed and attentive, presenting the dog clearly for the judge’s examination. Her overall ring awareness was good, and she handled the class with confidence. On the move, she set a suitable pace for the breed and made good use of the ring when performing her patterns. With a little more finesse when moving her dog, particularly in maintaining consistent speed and smooth transitions around corners, this partnership will continue to improve. This is a promising young handler who, with continued practice and experience, should progress well in Junior Handling classes.

Adult Handling 17-39 years (9,4)

1st Francesca Wilson. Eighteen-year-old handler presented her Australian Shepherd in excellent condition, with both handler and dog turned out to a high standard. She entered the ring with quiet confidence and immediately demonstrated a polished and professional approach to handling. Her rapport with the dog was outstanding, the partnership working together with ease and clear mutual understanding. The dog remained attentive to her throughout the class, responding promptly to her direction and maintaining focus even when standing in line. During the individual assessment, she handled the examination calmly and efficiently, presenting the dog clearly for the judge while maintaining excellent ring awareness. On the move, the handler demonstrated effortless handling, setting a pace that allowed the Australian Shepherd to move freely and naturally. Her patterns were precise, with straight lines and tidy corners, and she used the ring well while ensuring the dog was always visible to the judge. Transitions were smooth and controlled, highlighting both the dog’s movement and the handler’s technical ability. Overall, this was a highly accomplished performance. The combination of confident presentation, strong technique and exceptional rapport between handler and dog made this partnership a pleasure to watch. Best Adult handler. 

2nd Sophie Wildig. Twenty-three-year-old handler presented her seven-month-old Affenpinscher in excellent condition, with both handler and dog turned out to a very high standard. Presentation was particularly noteworthy, with the dog clean, well prepared and shown to best advantage. She handled her young dog with confidence and sensitivity, demonstrating a developing yet promising partnership. Despite the dog’s age, the pair worked well together and showed a budding relationship that should continue to strengthen with further experience. During the individual assessment she remained composed and attentive, presenting the dog clearly for the judge while maintaining good ring awareness. On the move, she set a suitable pace for the breed, allowing the Affenpinscher to move freely while keeping the dog attentive and under control. Her patterns were clear and well executed, making good use of the ring. Overall, this was a very pleasing performance from a capable handler, and the partnership pushed strongly for the top spot.

Adult handling (4,5)

1st Kirsty Venton. Forty-six-year-old handler presented her Border Collie in a clean and well-prepared condition, with both handler and dog suitably turned out for the class. She entered the ring with confidence and immediately demonstrated a capable and experienced approach to handling. Her rapport with the dog was evident throughout, the pair working together smoothly and with clear understanding. The dog remained attentive and responsive to her direction, reflecting the strong partnership between them. During the individual assessment she handled the examination calmly and efficiently, presenting the dog clearly while maintaining good awareness of the judge’s position. On the move, she set an appropriate pace that allowed the Border Collie to move freely and naturally. Her patterns were neat and accurate, with straight lines and well-managed corners, showing sound handling technique and effective use of the ring. Overall, this was a very pleasing performance from a great handler who demonstrated confidence, control, and a strong connection with her dog.

2nd Hayley Tasker. A forty-year-old handler presented her Great Dane in good condition, with both handler and dog appropriately turned out for the class. She entered the ring with confidence and managed her large dog with assurance and control. A particularly pleasing aspect of this partnership was the rapport between handler and dog. The pair worked harmoniously together, with the dog remaining attentive and responsive to her direction throughout the class. During the individual assessment she handled the examination calmly, presenting the dog clearly while maintaining good awareness of the judge’s position. On the move she set a steady pace that allowed the Great Dane to move freely and comfortably, making good use of the ring when completing her patterns. Overall, this was a very pleasing performance, and the strong partnership between handler and dog saw them push strongly for first place.

Adult handling 60 years & over (2,2)

Boxer P - no entries SY- no entries L - no entries O - no entries 

German Pinscher 

P - no entries SY - no entries L - no entries

O (1) 1st Lowe DANIXARIS DAYDREAMER. Three-year-old stag red male presented a well-balanced and athletic outline. He displayed the elegant yet strong appearance required, with good overall proportions and a compact, short-coupled body. His head was masculine and correctly formed, showing the desired blunt wedge shape with a flat forehead, slight but distinct stop, and a deep muzzle. His dark, oval eyes gave an alert and intelligent expression, complemented by correctly set V-shaped ears carried close to the head. The neck was elegant and well arched, flowing smoothly into well-laid shoulders. His forequarters were straight and parallel, and he stood on compact, well-arched feet. The body showed good depth of chest with the brisket extending below the elbow, and a firm, slightly sloping topline. On the move he was free and balanced, showing good reach in front with strong driving action from the rear while maintaining a firm topline. Overall, a very pleasing and typical example of the breed. BOB. GP4. 

Giant Schnauzer

P (1) 1st Rawsthorne WITCHER BLADE. Eight-month-old pure black male presented a pleasing outline, already showing the powerful, almost square proportions typical of the breed. For his age he displayed good substance and bone, with a robust yet athletic appearance. His head was of good length with a flat, creaseless forehead and well-developed eyebrows giving a keen and alert expression. The muzzle was strong with correct whiskering, and his dark, oval eyes were set well forward. His neck was moderately long and strong, flowing neatly into well-laid shoulders. Forelegs were straight with good bone and elbows close to the body. The body showed good depth of chest and promising ribbing for his age, with a firm topline. On the move he was balanced and purposeful, showing good reach in front and developing drive from the hindquarters. A promising young dog with much to look forward to as he matures. BP, BOB & PG3. 

SY - Rawsthorne WITCHER BLADE. See Puppy class. L - no entries O - no entries

Saint Bernard 

P - no entries 

SY (1) - 1st Brennan & O’Reilly STREILLYS QUEEN OF THE NIGHT. Fourteen-month-old female presented a pleasing outline with good substance for her age, showing the balanced and powerful appearance typical of the breed. She displayed a steady and composed temperament in the ring. Her head was feminine yet strong, with a broad skull, defined stop and a short, full muzzle finishing square at the nose. Dark eyes gave a kind expression and her ears were correctly set, lying close to the cheeks. Her neck was strong and slightly arched, flowing into well-laid shoulders and straight forelegs of good bone. The body showed good depth of chest and a firm topline. On the move she was smooth and steady. BOB. 

L - no entries O - no entries 

Siberian Husky

P (1) 1st Seward ZIMAVOLK’S FREAK ON A LEASH WITH ELLEONIA. Seven-month-old agouti female presented a very attractive and balanced outline. She is of pleasing size and proportion for her age, with moderate bone and a well-developed yet athletic frame that reflects the balance of power, speed and endurance required for the breed. Her head is feminine and well proportioned to her body, displaying the typical finely chiselled, fox-like appearance. The skull is slightly rounded with a clearly defined but not excessive stop, and the muzzle of good length tapering neatly to the nose. Her dark almond-shaped eyes are well set and contribute to a keen, alert and friendly expression. Ears are well placed, triangular in shape and carried strongly erect. Her neck is of good length and carriage, flowing smoothly into well-laid shoulders and straight forelegs with bone appropriate to her size. The body shows promising development with a firm level topline, well-sprung ribs and a slight tuck-up. On the move she is light and effortless, showing good reach and developing drive from the hindquarters. A beautiful agouti youngster with great promise as she matures. BPIB. 

SY (6,1) 1st Jackson SAKARLADRIFT FROSTY PAWS FOR AZILVIX. Fourteen-month-old agouti female presented a beautiful and well-balanced outline, continuing to develop into an attractive example of the breed. Having had the pleasure of judging her previously as a puppy, it was particularly rewarding to see how she has matured, retaining the quality and promise she showed at that earlier stage. She is of correct size and proportion, with moderate bone and a well-developed yet athletic frame. Her head remains feminine and well proportioned, showing the typical finely chiselled, fox-like appearance. The skull is slightly rounded with a clearly defined stop and a well-shaped muzzle tapering neatly to the nose. Her almond-shaped blue eyes give a keen, friendly and attentive expression, complemented by well-set, erect ears. Her neck is of good length and carriage, flowing smoothly into well-laid shoulders and straight forelegs with bone appropriate to her size. The body is strong with a firm, level topline, well-sprung ribs and well-muscled hindquarters. On the move she was effortless, showing good reach and drive. She continues to impress and is maturing very nicely. BOB. 

2nd Seward ZIMAVOLK’S FREAK ON A LEASH WITH ELLEONIA - see puppy critique.

L (3,2) 1st Jackson SAKARLADRIFT FROSTY PAWS FOR AZILVIX - see Special Yearling critique. 

O (5,2) 1st Jackson SAKARLADRIFT FROSTY PAWS FOR AZILVIX - see Special Yearling critique.

2nd Seward ELLEONIA TAKE A CHANCE ON ME JW (ai) Eighteen-month-old male is a quality exhibit who presents a pleasing outline with the balanced proportions and athletic build expected of the breed. He shows good substance without losing the overall impression of lightness and agility that is so important. His head is masculine and well proportioned, displaying the characteristic fox-like appearance with a well-defined stop and a muzzle of correct length. His expression is alert and intelligent, complemented by correctly set, erect ears. His neck is of good length and carried well, leading into well-placed shoulders and straight forelegs with bone appropriate to his frame. The body is strong with a firm topline and well-developed hindquarters. Today he found it difficult to fully settle in the ring, likely distracted by the presence of a female in season, which affected his overall focus. Nevertheless, when attentive he demonstrated sound, free movement with good reach and drive, and clearly possesses the quality to challenge strongly for top honours.

Tibetan Mastiff P- no entries SY- no entries L - (4,4) O - (1,1)

Australian Shepherd 

P (1) 1st Venton TRIFORCE TALLULAH BANKHEAD AT MISTYISLE. Eight-month-old tri-colour bitch presented a very attractive and balanced outline. She is feminine without any loss of substance, with moderate bone. Her head is clean cut and in good proportion to her body, with a slightly rounded skull and a moderate, well-defined stop. The muzzle is of correct length, tapering neatly to a rounded tip. Her almond-shaped eyes are expressive, and her ears are correctly set and well carried when attentive. Her neck is of good length and strength, flowing smoothly into well-laid shoulders. The forelegs are straight with slightly sloping pasterns, and the body already shows pleasing development with good depth of chest, well-sprung ribs and a firm, level topline.What particularly caught the eye was her movement. She moved with real freedom and enthusiasm, covering the ground with smooth, agile strides while maintaining excellent balance and a steady topline. A very promising young bitch who was a pleasure to watch. BPIB. 

SY- no entries L- no entries 

O (3,1) 1st Wilson & Gibbons WISPAFETES GIVE US A TWIRL. This three-year-old red tri-colour bitch made an immediate impression as she entered the ring, presented to a very high standard and handled with great skill. She is a well-proportioned exhibit, slightly longer than tall, with moderate bone and good muscular quarters. Her head is clean and balanced with the body, showing a slightly rounded skull and moderate, well-defined stop. Muzzle is of correct length, tapering neatly to a rounded tip, producing the keen and intelligent expression. Her almond-shaped eyes, correct colour for coat and ears are correctly set. She possesses a clean, moderately long neck which flows smoothly into well-laid shoulders and straight forelegs with slightly sloping pasterns. Her body is strong with a firm, level topline, good depth of chest and well-sprung ribs, giving her a balanced and workmanlike outline.Particularly impressive was the way she was presented in the ring, handled confidently and sympathetically to show her to best advantage.BOB

2nd Roberts TROYA ELVIKAM OF DREAMTALE (IMP POL). This six-year-old red merle presented a great overall picture, showing the balanced proportions and lovely outline. He is a well-constructed dog with moderate bone and good musculature, giving the impression of a capable and active working dog. His head is clean cut and in good proportion to his body, with a slightly rounded skull, moderate stop and a well-shaped muzzle. His expression is keen and attentive, although I would have preferred the eye to be slightly more almond shaped. His neck is of good length and strength, flowing smoothly into well-laid shoulders. The body is strong with a firm topline and good depth of chest. On the move he was smooth, agile and balanced, covering the ground with ease.

Border Collie 

P (2) 1st Holtappel BRYNING THE PRETENDER. Six-month-old black and white male presented a pleasing outline, already showing balanced proportions. He is a well-made youngster with body length slightly greater than height. His head is in good proportion to his body, with a fairly broad skull, distinct stop and a moderately short, strong muzzle tapering neatly to the nose. well-set oval dark eyes and correctly carried ears. Neck is of good length and strength, leading smoothly into well-laid shoulders and straight forelegs with slightly sloping pasterns. The body is developing well for his age, with good depth of chest and well-sprung ribs, while his hindquarters show promising muscle and angulation.On the move he was free and effortless, already showing the smooth, ground-covering action. A promising young dog. BPIB

2nd Askey PIECE OF HAPPINESS TORNADO AT PETALNOTE. Eleven-month-old black and white male presented a well-balanced outline with the athletic appearance. He is a quality youngster with pleasing proportions and sufficient substance while maintaining the overall impression of a capable working dog. His head is in good proportion to the body with a fairly broad skull, correct stop and a moderately short, strong muzzle. His expression is keen and intelligent, complemented by well-set dark eyes and correctly carried ears. He showed good construction throughout with a strong neck and well-developed body for his age. Another quality youngster, just preferred the movement of the class winner today.

SY (3) 1st Wilcox BLACKGOLD AGE OF AQUARIUS. twelve-month-old deep red and white male is a very attractive youngster who presents a cracking outline with the correct balance and proportions. He has a pleasing overall shape, giving the impression of stamina and working capability. His head is well proportioned with a clean finish, good stop and a strong muzzle of good length. Expression is bright with correct eye placement and ears that he used well to show alertness. He has a strong, well carried neck, correctly placed shoulders and straight forelegs with good bone. His body is developing nicely with good ribbing and a firm topline, while his hindquarters show strength and promise for his age. When moving he showed a smooth, easy stride with good coordination and balance.

2nd Holtappel BRYNING PSYCHEDELIC KISSES JW. Twelve-month-old black and white male presented a very pleasing overall picture, showing the balanced proportions and athletic outline. He is a well-made youngster with correct body proportions giving the impression of stamina and working ability. Correct head, well proportioned. Soft expression, enhanced by dark well-set eyes and correctly carried ears. Well-laid shoulders and straight forelegs, with good depth of chest and developing muscle. On the move he was free and purposeful, and really gave the class winner a run for their money.

L (3) 1st McConnachie YOUR STILL THE ONE AT THISTLESKYE. four-year-old tri female is a truly lovely example of the breed, presenting a balanced and flowing outline that immediately catches the eye. She has the correct proportions. Head is feminine, well proportioned with a fairly broad skull, good stop and a strong muzzle, attentive expression, complemented by correctly set eyes and ears. She possesses a strong, well-muscled neck that flows neatly into well-laid shoulders and straight forelegs with slightly sloping pasterns. Her body is well developed with good depth of chest, well-sprung ribs and a strong loin, all contributing to her balanced and workmanlike appearance. What truly impressed was her movement; she covered the ground with ease and purpose, showing a smooth, tireless stride while holding her topline beautifully throughout.

2nd Buckley AMKAMEL GOBLET OF FIRE. Three-year-old black and white bitch, pleasing outline with the correct proportions. She shows the athletic, workmanlike construction, with good substance without any loss of balance. Her head is well proportioned, correct stop and a strong muzzle, giving her a intelligent expression. She has a good neck flowing into well-placed shoulders and straight forelegs, with a well-ribbed body and strong hindquarters. On the move she was smooth and balanced. A classic type bitch whom I admire, who would benefit from gaining a little more confidence in the ring.

O (3) 1st Buckley AMKAMEL HALF BLOOD PRINCE JW. Three-year-old black and white male is a wonderful example of classic breed type, presenting a balanced and natural outline with nothing exaggerated or overdone. Correct proportions with good substance while retaining the athletic, workmanlike appearance. Well proportioned head, dark eye and well set ears, giving expressions of a tenacious, hard-working sheep dog. Strong, well-muscled neck flowing smoothly into well-laid shoulders and straight forelegs with slightly sloping pasterns. His body is well ribbed with a deep chest and strong, muscular loin, giving the correct impression of endurance. On the move he was free, smooth and purposeful, covering the ground with ease while maintaining a firm topline. A very honest, workmanlike dog who looks as though he could leave the ring and go straight out to work sheep. BOB. 

2nd Longhurst SH CH SIMMOVON CHARM WRITER AT SPOTARTON JW. Two-year-old black and white male presented a very appealing and well-balanced outline, showing many of the same virtues as the class winner, though of a slightly different type. His head is well proportioned with a fairly broad skull, distinct stop and a strong muzzle. Correct angulation fore/aft. Body is well ribbed with good depth of chest and a strong loin, supported by well-muscled hindquarters. On the move he was smooth, balanced and purposeful, covering the ground with ease. A very close contender for the class win, and it is easy to see how this youngster has already achieved his champion title.

Hungarian Pumi 

P - no entries SY - no entries 

L (2,1) 1st Edwards SCHNAUBERN FAWARIS. Three-year-old fawn dog presented a pleasing outline, square in proportion with a sturdy yet agile frame and moderate bone. He showed good muscle tone and the alert, expressive character. His head was well proportioned with the characteristic elongated muzzle and only a slight stop, producing the keen and intelligent expression typical of the breed. His oval eyes were lively and his correctly set ears, with the top third bending forward, contributed greatly to his characteristic look. He possesses a good neck flowing into well-laid shoulders with straight forelegs set well under the body. His body is lean and well muscled with a firm topline and correctly set tail carried over the croup. Today he was somewhat mischievous and full of character, which made him a little difficult to fully assess at times, though he showed lively and balanced movement when settled.

O (2,1) Edwards CSERESZNYESKERTI-CSALFA ZAJOS (IMP HUN) Twelve-year-old grey male presented a very typical outline for the breed, square in proportion with a sturdy yet agile appearance. He is towards the smaller end of the size range but remains well balanced with moderate bone and pleasing overall structure. His head retains the characteristic long, narrow shape with an elongated muzzle and slight stop, giving the keen and intelligent expression expected of the breed. His ears are well set with the top third bending forward, adding to his alert look. He carries himself confidently with a firm topline and correctly set tail. Remarkably, he moved with lively, spirited action, truly defying his age. BOB. 

Kat Copley-Holland

Katabatic Alaskan Malamutes