Richmond Dog Show Society

RICHMOND CHAMPIONSHIP DOG SHOW

WORKING GROUP

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I was honoured to be invited to judge the Working Group at Richmond Championship Dog Show and on the day was flattered with the hospitality and friendly atmosphere around the main ring. My thanks go to the Richmond Committee for organising a very enjoyable and professionally run show.

The Working Group was the first Group to be judged on the third day of the Richmond 2026 Championship Show and I was privileged to have a main ring full of top quality Working Dogs. Thanks go to the breed judges for sending through such quality dogs.

After judging each Best of Breed individually and following a look around the line-up I selected a 7 dog short list comprising of the Alaskan Malamute, the Boxer, the Giant Schnauzer, the Great Dane, the Leonberger, the Newfoundland and the Siberian Husky. 

The short-listed dogs were moved again and the Working Group winner was awarded to ELLIS – PAYNE’S - Ch Chayo One In A Billion a powerful, mature Alaskan Malamute male who has excellent substance and a classic masculine head showing balance and alertness. Sturdy and well-boned, he carries a dense, healthy coat and stands strong with broad forechest and well-let-down hindquarters. Moves freely with purposeful stride and effective rear drive. Exhibits a confident temperament, exemplifying the breed’s strength, endurance, and dignity.

GROUP 2 : 4681 SMITH & BALMER - Howlvalley's Tiramisu JW a feminine Siberian Husky with a striking foxy expression with well-set ears. neck, balanced outline and level topline. Pleasing ribbing, forechest, bone, pasterns and feet. Strong loin, well-set tail and sound, well-angulated rear. In commendable coat and condition. Moved freely with easy reach and drive.

GROUP 3 : 4520 BURTON - Vodahond Arlo an impressive Newfoundland male who has an attractive, breed-typical head, calm assured expression and pleasing dark eyes. Sturdy and well boned with a true front, good substance and firm level topline. A balanced, powerful and robust dog, presented in excellent coat and condition. Moved freely and positively, showing desirable front extension and strong drive behind.

GROUP 4 : 4512 WEAVER & WEAVER - Ch Simden Maida Girl Like You an impressive balanced, feminine Leonberger with a strong head, defined mask and soft expression. Good neck, bone, front and rear, with a level topline. Moved true and powerfully, maintaining her outline throughout

Judge: Mr Graham Hill