The Scottish Kennel Club (October Show)

Judges Critiques

Mr Tom MATHER

Judging: Utility Group

The Scottish Kennel Club 2023 (October Show)

Utility Group

Even though there are a number of breeds that are not allocated Challenge Certificates at this show this was a high quality, hotly contested group. 

In addition to the four principal winners, I also shortlisted the ultra- smart Boston Terrier, Bennett’s Ch Wildax Liverpool Lad at Boxbos; the very pretty veteran German Spitz (Mittel), Moire’s Ch Jansanleis Mayhem JW; the handsome Japanese Shiba Inu, Dunhill-Hall’s Ch Vormund Xmas Bonus and the nicely balanced Shar Pei, Todd’s Witchgait Toasted Cheese JW.

However, I found my winner in the Miniature Schnauzer bitch, Longdin’s Ch Wellingley Won For Mimi.  Feminine yet sturdy and robust with good length of head, neat ears and a keen alert expression.  Excellent forehand with good bone.  Good depth of chest and typical topline.  Strong, well-angulated hindquarters. Moved well with some reach and drive and needless to say she was presented in top form.  

In second place was another superbly presented beautiful bitch in the form of the white Standard Poodle, Langdon’s Ch Atastar And Just Like That. She really pushed the winner hard.  Proud and elegant and on the move she has a light sound action with perfect footfall.  Grand head with good chin and dark, intelligent eyes.  Good depth of chest and well ribbed with some breadth over the loins.  Strong, muscular hindquarters.   

Group 3 was yet another bitch, Davies’ Tibetan Terrier, Ch Waterley Midnight Martini.  Square in outline and beautifully balanced.  Very pleasing to handle.  Well-proportioned skull, good forequarters with typical feet.  Excellent coat.  Good both out and back but particularly impressive in profile.

Finally, the only dog in my final four was the Tibetan Spaniel, Davies’ Ch Bowcara Be My Guest JW.  I’ve admired him before and he has so much to commend him.  Relatively small head, nicely cushioned muzzle with good chin.  Typical hare feet.  Good body with high set, well carried tail.  Absolutely sound on the move and moved with some purpose.  A charming character. 

Judge: Tom Mather