Tunbridge Wells & District Canine Society

I was disappointed, having driven down and stayed overnight, to arrive at the show feeling so unwell. I would measure you though that it did not affect my ability to judge and I took my usual due diligence to Make considered decisions in the ring, and having reviewed my notes and photographs I am confident that my placings reflected the dogs qualities accurately. It is my firm opinion that soundness—both physical and mental—is of paramount importance in the show dog, as it underpins their ability to be truly fit for function. The show itself was a lot of fun, with a vibrant Caribbean theme. The committee had clearly put in a great deal of effort to make it enjoyable for the exhibitors, with a lively steel band, colourful costumes, and garlands adding to the atmosphere. It was such a shame that the rain was so heavy and persistent—but it didn’t dampen anyone’s spirits, and the day was still thoroughly enjoyed by all! Spaniel (Cocker) Puppy (2) 1st Gregory’s Babtonkelpie Trolley Dolly, Quite a big, sturdy, and slightly long blue roan bitch, carrying a little too much weight. She has that lovely, happy, typical temperament and bustling movement that immediately drew my attention. She possesses a pleasing, chiselled head with good balance between skull and muzzle, a square muzzle, and a well-defined stop. Her neck is strong and well set, complemented by balanced angulation front and rear. She has well-sprung ribs, nice bone, and correct pasterns and feet. Best Puppy. 2nd Warrington’s Zakova L’amour Compact feminine bitch, though she appeared very unsettled today. She was presented in a profusely well-prepared coat. I would have preferred more strength in the muzzle, but she has a pleasing expression. Her neck has correct reach, flowing into well-laid shoulders and a good return of upper arm. She has a straight front with good bone and tight feet, a well-sprung rib, and nicely made quarters. However, her movement was very erratic, and I would have preferred to see more confidence in the ring. Junior (2) Two 15 month old dogs who both had different qualities and was a difficult decision. 1st Covington’s Delightful Hunter Legendary at Silverdust Reserve Best of Breed, presented a picture of a sturdy, compact, and well-balanced dog with correct proportions and no exaggeration. His blue roan coat displayed the appropriate amount of feathering. I liked his head, which was nicely chiselled with a good square muzzle. He has a moderately well-set neck and balanced angulation both front and rear. His topline is level, with good depth and spring of rib. On the move, he showed excellent reach and drive, moving out really nicely with a broad, driving action behind. 2nd Cox’s Ryallcourt Charm of Unique to Suvern (AI) Black and white masculine dog who moved out very well. He presents a nice, square, and typical outline. His coat is flat and silky, complemented by good feathering. He has a well-proportioned skull with a defined stop and bright eyes. I would have preferred a bit more strength in the muzzle. He has a strong neck, nice bone, and well-formed feet, correct spring of ribs. However, I would have liked to see a little more turn of stifle. Open (2) 1st Warrington’s Zakova Santana JW A quality and mature black dog, exhibiting correct proportions and a pleasing size. He is well balanced throughout, and I particularly liked his head, which shows excellent balance between skull and muzzle, with a strong, square muzzle and a gentle, pleasing expression complemented by bright eyes. His neck is of correct length, flowing smoothly into well-laid shoulders and a good return of upper arm. He has a straight front, good bone, strong pasterns, and neat, cat-like feet. His topline is level, with good spring and depth of rib. Well-bent stifles flow into well-let-down hocks. On the move, he covered the ground with ease, showing good reach and drive. He carries his tail a little higher than the topline. Best of Breed. 2nd Cox’s Ryallcourt Charm of Unique to Suvern (AI) repeat