2017 Championship Show

Championship Show Report

(Now includes all Show and Obedience judges reports)

Saturday 23rd SEPTEMBER 2017

The Kennel Club Building, Stoneleigh Park, Nr Coventry, Warwickshire CV8 2LZ

Before any proceedings were commenced a minute’s silence was held in memory of, and to show respect for, Brenda Griffiths who died this summer. Brenda with her Forgeman affix made a massive contribution to the club and the breed in this country during the developmental years for both and her loss was felt across the Bernese community. (If you missed the news item and Brenda’s obituary on this web site you can revisit it via this link)

 

After this solemn, respectful moment the Show, sponsored by Royal Canin, went ahead, more or less as planned but we have to start the report with an apology to the Limited Obedience Show Competitors and Judge.

On arrival on Friday afternoon to set up as usual we were told that we could not have all 3 permanent rings, as we have had every time we have attended this venue, now, with no notice, only two were available. After fractious calls to the KC we were unable to resolve this and so the Obedience competition was consigned to an improvised ring a little detached from the show and with grass that was longer than ideal. We thank our Obedience judge and exhibitors for their tolerance of this situation which we could not anticipate and of course will be taking up further with the KC.

As usual we were able to hold the show outside all day and the weather gradually warmed up during the day, finishing in bright sunshine and long Autumn shadows. As with all club events your committee work hard to make things happen in the right way and at the right time but as usual there were a few helpers with invaluable contributions we have to acknowledge. David Robertson did his usual sterling job with the raffle and we have to give a big thank you to Lin Nelson who did a fantastic job manning our kitchen all day. We were on the verge of not being able to have a kitchen so Lin’s help really was invaluable.

As both main show judges made good progress we had the luxury of being able to stagger the latter classes in the dog and bitch rings to enable everyone to see everything and avoid anyone having to stand around in one ring waiting for people to finish in the other ring. Most people seemed to appreciate this but a few voiced the obvious consequence that it extends the finish time of the show. As always swings and roundabout and can’t please everyone but if, as an exhibitor or indeed spectator, you have an opinion on this we would love to hear it.

We also have to thank everyone who donated prizes to our raffle especially Mrs Thomason the donator of these three giant sized characters, at least two of them were enjoying the show!

A special mention goes to Violet Slade who donated the lovely Bernese decorated ladies jacket which we auctioned for the health fund during the lunch break.

Finally, we have to thank all the exhibitors and spectators for supporting our show and adding to the day.

Many more photos can be found in our Champ Show 2017 gallery via this link which is repeated through this page.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW LOTS OF GENERAL PHOTOGRAPHS FROM THE SHOW

You can either look at the thumbnails as presented or click on any of them to open a scroll through gallery or click on the ‘Play arrow’ button slide near the top to view a slide show.

In the CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW Heather Head (Bitches) and Carole Hartley-Mair (Dogs) with occasional help from Referee Sandra Gatward awarded the following main awards

Best in Show, was the dog CC winner Jackie Green’s Alpenspirit Pure Pleasure for Arvella (imp Can), handled by Di Atherton.

Reserve Best in Show was the Res Dog CC winner Penny Cooke and Jim Stevens’ Tickbern Ridin’ High.

Best Opposite Sex was Bitch CC winner Joanne Sutton’s Ch Bernsteph Remember Me  JW ShCM.

Res Bitch CC winner was Julie Morgan’s Welshbern Sweet Lady at Judabern

Best Puppy in Show was Jackie Weston’s 9 month old home bred bitch Bernfawr Jonqill

Reserve Best Puppy in Show & Best Minor Puppy was Steve, Jeanette and Emily Green’s Mattias vom Durrbachler Wald at Waldershelf (imp Nld) at his first show at 6 months and 2 days old.

Best Veteran in Show was Garry Griffiths, Violet Slade and Mandy Orme’s 7 year old Jaybiem Vou Doo at Potterspride

 

In the LIMITED OBEDIENCE SHOW our Judge, Julia Bosworth, had 29 entries spread over the 5 classes.

After completion of all the classes an overall Obedience Dog of the Day is declared and awarded our silver Working Trophy and this year it was, again, congratulations to Sue Maddox with Lily who is certainly on a roll at the club’s Working events!

 

WORKING DOG OF THE YEAR

Following the Obedience Competition results they are added into the mix of results from other club events from 2017 and the Overall Top Working Dog of the year is awarded the Grand Prix Trophy. These points are gained in Working Cart, Agility and Obedience and the Working Day sections of the two Garden Parties and the Limited Show Obedience at this Champ show.

This year, for the first time, special club prize cards for the top three were provided courtesy of sponsorship from Belle Owen which continues for the next few years. Thank you Belle.

  1. Sue Maddox with Lily with 20pts
  2. Belle Owen with Bolli was 2nd with 16pts
  3. Geoff Stelmach with Gina was 3rd with 14pts.

Big Congratulations to all these, and everyone else who took part in any of our working competitions through the year, keeping the working roots of our breed alive.

 

CLICK HERE TO VIEW LOTS OF GENERAL PHOTOGRAPHS FROM THE SHOW

You can either look at the thumbnails as presented or click on any of them to open a scroll through gallery or click on the ‘Play arrow’ button slide near the top to view a slide show.

 

JUNIOR HANDLING

During the lunch break our usual Junior Handling classes took place with the winners qualifying for the JHA semi finals next year.

Our judge was Lianne Marsden (Trudaleaze) and the results were

JH 6 – 11 years old (2 entries, 2 present)
  1. Sophia Ishaque
  2. Kathryn Bickley
JH 12 – 16 years old (1,1)
  1. Anna Bickley

Overall Best Junior Handler was then judged between the two class winners and awarded to Sophia Ishaque

Judges Report by Lianne Marsden

Well done to all three young ladies – it can’t have been easy to get up there and go in “The Big Ring” in front of everyone, so you should all be very proud of yourselves – well done and we hope to see you all back next year.

6-11 years
  1. Sophia Ishaque

Although her 1st attempt at Junior Handling, Sophia was very impressive and confident in the handling of her well schooled dog. Listened to instructions and carried them out as asked. Answered questions correctly and was very sympathetic to the needs of the dog. They moved in lovely partnership together around the ring and they clearly have a good rapport. With practice they will make a super team. Best Junior Handler.

  1. Kathryn Bickley

A much less experienced dog, who did not make his handler’s job easy today. Like Sophia, I don’t think Kathryn has done much Junior Handling but keep at it – the dog does listen to you. Kathryn stayed calm throughout but the dog, who was very strong, was sadly having none of it. Kathryn listened to and carried out instructions well. She correctly answered questions and was very enthusiastic throughout.

12-16 years
  1. Anna Bickley

Same dog as 2nd in previous class but he knew a bit more of what as expected of him. Anna did well to keep his attention, he wanted that treat! Like previous, Anna listened to and carried out the instructions I gave and answered questions easily. I was impressed with Anna’s coolness at a very naughty boy but he did settle a bit towards the end. Just a slightly different approach to his training (teach him to stand, not sit) and with practice they will make a really good team – keep at it.

 

Following the Junior Handling, whilst the judges were still away at lunch,  the Champions Parade occupied the Main Ring with 6 Champions coming in to be announced and celebrated.

More reporting, full results of Obedience and more ‘Show’, judge’s reports when available and many photographs of the day will appear in the coming days so please keep returning to view the updates.

 DOG JUDGING

Judges Report by Carole Hartely-Mair (Meadowpark)

It was an honour to be invited to judge this Club Show. Thank you to my stewards Ash and Chelsea Hickling for keeping things running smoothly and the exhibitors for accepting their placings in a sportsmanlike fashion.

I was pleased to see some lovely up and coming youngsters in the breed which bodes well for the future. It was difficult to find what I wanted, which is the combination of type, balance and movement. My main concerns on the day were a tendency towards either tall dogs with a lack of angulation or longer dogs, lower in the leg with correct angulation. As a breed, we need to try and find the balance in-between.

Minor Puppy Dog. (3)

  1. Green’s Matthias Vom Durrbachler Wald at Waldershelf (imp NLD). Upstanding puppy dog just 6 months old at his first show. Good size and length of leg with correct balanced proportions. Well-marked, with nice dark tan. Head well-developed with enough stop and strong muzzle. Correct bite. Dark almond-shaped eye and gentle expression. Enough neck, adequate shoulder placement with a lovely straight front. Good bone and tight cat-like feet. Level topline and firm body for his age with correct croup and tail-set leading to balanced angles in the rear. Moved true both coming and going using his hindquarters to advantage. Quality puppy. Pleased to award Best Puppy Dog, Reserve Best Puppy in Show and Best Minor Puppy in Show.
  2. Davenport-Willis & Kozamelj’s Rustinflame from Orsina’s Land (imp Slo). Another lovely 6 month old puppy dog. Good proportions and rich colouring. Head developing ok, a touch narrow at this stage, but plenty of time. A touch light in eye colour but good shape and tight lids. Correct bite. Shapely puppy with good angles both fore and aft. Superb forehand, with good neck and shoulder, pronounced fore-chest and nice strong bone for his size. Level topline and rounded rump with well-angulated rear and firm hocks. Moved true enough both coming and going but a touch unsettled today at his first show. Another really promising baby who I look forward to watching mature.
  3. Szarhegyaljai Elyjah at Scobern (Imp Hun) NAF TAF. Another 6 month old imported puppy dog. Good size, quite tall at present and will need time to mature and grow into his frame. Well-marked, with rich colouring. Head developing ok, but needs to broaden and hopefully then his lids will tighten. Good length of neck and OK shoulder placement with enough fore-chest and good bone for size. Level topline and rounded rump. Quite long in hock and loose in rear at this stage; he needs time for this to strengthen and settle on the move. Nice happy temperament.

Puppy Dog (4, 3 abs)

  1. Wakeland’s Collansues Secret Potion at Bramikdel. 11 months old upstanding male. Very strong head with nice dark eye and strong muzzle. Correct bite. Strong neck, leading into adequate shoulder placement. He is a little steep in upper-arm at this stage. Well-boned for his size. Balanced angles, both fore and aft. Tall puppy dog who needs time to grow into his frame and drop all-round. Lovely colouring and well-marked. Moved true going from his firm hocks and in profile, but a little loose coming towards today. Lovely confident temperament and well-handled.

Special Junior Dog (10,2)

Usually a class that I don’t enjoy, but today had some quality youngsters.

  1. Miles’ Jaybiem Stan Innovation JW. Quality 16 month old male who looked the obvious winner as soon as he walked into the class with his young handler. Strong, sturdy male who has the whole package – type, substance and soundness. Head just oozes quality with dark almond-shaped eye, strong muzzle and broad skull. I loved his overall make and shape. Good neck and shoulder, straight front and tight cat-like feet. Deep chest, well-ribbed and firm topline. Rounded rump, well-angulated rear with firm hocks. Moved soundly both coming and going, extending well in profile. Considered him for top honours but just a little lack lustre in the challenge.
  2. Bridges’ Kernow Troubadour. Quality workman-like 18 month old male who I liked very much. Quality head and expression, just oozing breed type with strong muzzle, broad skull and kind dark eye. Can look a bit stuffy in neck and not quite the shoulder of first but with good length of upper-arm. Straight front and well boned with nice tight feet. Nice solid body, firm topline and croup ok. Well-angulated rear and firm hocks. Moved soundly from all angles. A touch out of coat today, but hiding nothing. Could do a days work.
  3. King & Green’s Joseph Vom Durrbachler Wald at Arvella (Imp NLD). 12 month old handsome junior dog. Well-marked. Typical head in proportion to body. Broad muzzle, enough stop and dark eye. Good neck and shoulder with enough bone for his size. Would prefer more length to his leg to balance out the length in his body. Smoothly rounded rump and well-angulated rear leading into well-let down hocks. Moved ok in profile, but could be cleaner both coming and going. Nice laid-back character and handled to advantage.

Junior Dog (12, 3)

  1. Bridges’ Kernow Troubadour.
  2. Griffiths, Orme & Miles’ Jaybiem With N’Without Y’Zeus. Nice strong shapely 16 month old male. Good proportions and outline. Overall a quality dog, but I would just prefer a kinder expression and better eye shape and set, slightly shallow in stop at present. Broad skull and strong muzzle. Correct bite. Strong neck, and ok shoulder placement. Strong round bone and nice tight round feet. Deep chest and well-ribbed with firm loin and lovely rounded rump. Well-angulated rear and well-let down firm hocks. Moved well coming and going but just lacked the extension of first in profile today. Well-presented and handled.
  3. Bramble’s Shirdees Leathal Weapon. Quality 15 month old male. Gorgeous head and expression with nice strong muzzle, lovely dark eye and broad skull. Good length of neck leading into well-placed shoulder and correct forehand. Would prefer more length of leg and more compact in body for ideal proportions. A little soft in topline today. Nice rounded rump and well-angulated rear leading into firm hocks. So sound on the move with great reach and drive and clean coming and going when he co-operates with his handler.

Yearling Dog (4)

  1. Griffiths, Orme & Miles’ Jaybiem With N’Without Y’Zeus. Obvious class winner.
  2. Watson’s Jesterbrock Alpine Glory at Stepdasher. 19 month old male who needs time. Head ok and in proportion to his body, but a little light in eye colour. Correct bite. Would prefer more length of neck and better shoulder placement, but balanced with his moderate hind angles. Ok for size but would prefer more bone. Compact in proportions. Moved ok and has a tendency to fly his tail on the move. Needs time to lengthen in his body and drop in angulation. Lovely temperament and enjoying his day.
  3. Marshall’s Matthew Puchate Perly of Bernannan (imp Pol). Large stubborn male, who didn’t seem to be enjoying the day. Lovely head and melting expression – strong with broad flat skull. Clean head and lovely rich markings. Moderate angulation both fore and aft. A little rangy at present and needs time to collect himself and co-ordinate on the move. Looking his age today.

Novice Dog (5,2)

  1. King & Green’s Joseph Vom Durrbachler Wald at Arvella (imp NLD)
  2. Hotston’s Jesterbrock Pure Gold. Generally a nice type of a dog. Strong bone and body. Attractive head and expression with a nice strong muzzle. Straight front and tight feet. Topline could be firmer. Lovely rounded rump and rear angles ok with well-let down hocks. Moved erratic today and needs some ring training.
  3. Bickley’s Husheen to Sir with Love. This dog came into 3 or 4 classes with different handlers and this seemed rather confusing for the dog. Good sized male with enough bone. Lovely head and expression and attractive looking dog with a large dense coat. Another tall dog who needs time to drop into his body and would benefit from better angulation both fore and after. Difficult to assess his movement today as very erratic.

Graduate Dog (2,1)

  1. Barsby & Bonham’s Halesbern Naughty but Nice. Strong, flashy 2 year old male. Good size and proportions. Well-boned, Nice overall shape and outline. Broad skull and muzzle with an old-fashioned type head. Strong neck, but could have a better shoulder placement and moved wide coming towards. Enough angulation in the rear and correct tail-set. Moved with drive.

Post Graduate Dog (5,1)

  1. Phillips’ Monalou Norwegian Star. 2 ½ year old medium size male with a lot to like about him. Strong masculine head with broad flat skull, well-defined stop and firm muzzle. Strong neck, shoulder placement ok. Good bone for size. Deep chest, well-ribbed and broad body with correct substance. A tad long in the body for perfection, but held his topline and has a smoothly rounded rump. A touch straight in rear angulation. Moved soundly from all angles. In good coat and condition.
  2. Gurney’s Monalou Just Call Me Oleg. Another 2 ½ year old medium sized male with a lot to like about him and generally well-made. Broad muzzle but a touch narrower in skull than the winner. Good neck and shoulder. Nice round bone in proportion to his size. Straight front and nice tight cat-like feet. A tad long in the body and at times bum high. Smoothly rounded rump and enough hind angulation. Moved ok but a little lack lustre today.
  3. Bridges’ Deerpark Traveling Man V Kernow (Imp USA). 2 year old nice type of a dog with good size and shape. Good proportions. Attractive head and expression with broad flat skull and kind eye. Good neck, leading into well-placed shoulder. Bone in proportion to size. Level topline and firm loin, leading into a smoothly rounded rump and well-angulated rear. Well-made when you go over him and moved well in profile, but could be cleaner coming and going. Steady temperament.

Mid Limit Dog (5,1)

Nice class.

  1. Gurney’s Monalou Russian Ambassador. Just my cup of tea. Very attractive 2 ½ year old male with nice rich colouring and clean markings. Lovely head and expression with nice dark eye and correct head shape. Good length of neck leading into well-placed shoulder. Nice strong bone and tight round feet. Good depth of chest and broad back. A touch long in body for perfection. Well-rounded rump and well-angulated rear leading into well-let down hocks. In the class he was the shape I was looking for and moved very well; I thought he would have been a contender, but by the challenge his top-line had dropped and he was flagging. This was a shame.
  2. Miles & Sampson’s Jaybiem Mi Lord. 5 year old mature looking upstanding male. A touch overdone in head for me and would prefer better eye shape and lids. Strong neck, but a touch up-right in shoulder for me. Nice strong bone and lovely feet. Deep chest and strong firm top-line. Substantial male with good length of leg and correct proportions. Moved with reach and drive, with just a tendency to fly his tail. Nice laid-back character.
  3. Hastings’ Bernemcourt Liv’n on a Prayer. Nice attractive 3 ½ year old flashy male with striking colouring and beautifully presented. Lovely head and expression with broad muzzle and skull. Dark almond-shaped eye and correct ear placement. Good neck and shoulder but a touch short in upper-arm. Nice straight front and tight cat-like feet. Deep chest and broad body, just a touch long in the loin and moderate in rear angles. Moved soundly from all angles with drive from the rear.

Limit Dog (7, 1)

  1. Vaychkus & Vaickus’ Flintas Kalnu Suo at Bernaroso ShCM (imp Lt). 4 year old smart showy male of correct proportions. Good length of leg and compact body. Attractive head and nice kind dark eye. Maturing nicely with lovely rich colouring. Would prefer better shoulder and upper-arm. Straight front with bone in proportion to size. Level top-line with firm body and smoothly rounded rump. Nicely angulated rear leading into firm hocks. A little wide coming towards but moved soundly in profile and with drive from the rear. Overall a nicely balanced male and immaculately presented.
  2. Davenport-Willis’ Apriori Usain Bolt Among Nellsbern (Imp Rus). 2 year old quality male of good make and shape. Gentle expression with lovely dark eye and rich colouring. Good length of neck leading into well-placed shoulder and correct forehand. Nice straight front and bone in proportion. Firm body and level top-line. Well-rounded rump and tail-set. Good angulation in the rear and firm well let down hocks. Would prefer more of him all-round but so well-made. Moved soundly from all angles.
  3. Granger’s Orlando Bloom at Jaybiem JW ShCM. Strong attractive male. Lovely type and attractive head and expression just oozing in quality. Would prefer better shoulder and upper-arm. Straight front and nice round bone with tight feet. Firm body and topline and well-angulated rear. Would prefer more extension on the move but moved true both coming and going. Well-presented and handled.

Open Dog (10, 3)

Disappointing class overall for Open Dog, but was pleased with my main winners.

  1. Green’s Alpenspirit Pure Pleasure for Arvella (Imp Can). 4 1/2 year old substantial male who just stood out in this class for his size, shape and quality. The best I have ever seen him look. Oozing in breed type and not over done in anyway. Correct 9/10 proportions with good length of leg. Attractive head and melting expression. Broad flat skull and muzzle, well-defined stop and nice dark almond-shaped eye. Good neck and shoulder but would prefer more length to his upper-arm to be critical. Strong, straight front legs with good bone for size and nice tight cat-like feet. Good depth to his chest, broad firm back and smoothly rounded rump. In good coat and condition and was pleased to see him move well today, extending in profile and using his rear to advantage. Happy to award him his 2nd Dog CC. He then went on to win Best in Show in agreement with the referee. Congratulations.
  2. Cooke & Stevens’ Tickbern Ridin High. Another nice 5 year old male of lovely breed type. Not quite the size or substance of the winner but well-made. Strong masculine head with defined stop and broad flat skull. Kind eye and expression and correct muzzle. Can appear stuffy in neck, but on hands on examination had a good neck and shoulder. Nice round bone and feet. Deep chest, well-ribbed and firm loin. Smoothly rounded rump and tail-set. Good turn of stifle and short hocks. Has a tendency to carry his head low on the move which spoils the outline but moved well coming and going with great extension. Still on his toes in the challenge to win the Reserve Dog CC and then Reserve Best in Show, again in agreement with the referee.
  3. Round’s Ch Collansues Black Magic. Upper size 5 year old strong masculine male. A touch overdone for me and lacked the quality of the winners. Strong broad flat skull and muzzle and rich colouring. Overall a nice outline standing with good length of neck and shoulder placement. Strong bone, deep chest and level top-line leading into well-rounded rump. Well-angulated rear. Moved quite lightly on his feet for a dog of his size, but could be cleaner coming towards and more co-ordinated on the move. Presented well, in good coat and condition.

Veteran Dog (1)

  1. Wakeland’s Ch Collansues Building Bridges at Bramikdel JW. Stood alone in this class. 8 years old and looking his age, but in good condition. Strong male, with attractive head and expression. Balanced male – moderate in angles both fore and aft. Nice straight front with good bone and cat-like feet. Good depth of chest and well-ribbed. He moved ok around the ring and enjoyed his day out. Nice to have him here.

Carole Hartley-Mair (Meadowpark)

 

 

 

BITCH JUDGING

Judges Report by Heather Head (Millermead)

Thank you to the Committee of the BMDC of GB for their invitation to judge the Bernese bitches. The venue at Stoneleigh is an excellent one, with a large, mown enclosed ring. Good weather, a very nice entry of 77 bitches making 86 entries along with a sporting audience, made for a very satisfying and fulfilling appointment.

As a breed specialist of 35 years, I have seen the Bernese change marginally through time. Today, every exhibit had a correct bite, all but one was happy to be examined and none were lame. My biggest concern was front movement and perhaps the plainness of heads in some bitches.

 

Minor Puppy Bitch (6/1)

1. Watson’s Stepdasher Winters Wish 7 month old bitch of medium size. Confident, alert puppy, in cooperation with her handler. Well put together, with good balance and strength. Sweet head, dark eyes, flat skull. Ears a little high set. Regular markings, would prefer some white on feet. Very good bone for size. Straight, firm legs, excellent top line, nice turn of stifle and well set tail. Moved straight and true.

2. Oakaby’s Iscabern Daffadowndilly 6 month old bitch of medium size. Far less mature than the winner at this stage. I know we don’t expect maturity with puppies so young, but when deciding on a placing, it has to be taken into consideration. Smaller in size, but well up to weight. Sweet demeanour with a benevolent expression, well defined stop and balanced head. Rather on the flashy side as regards markings. Solid body, nice slope of shoulder and correct angulation. She moved very well for the first time in the ring.

3. Green’s Madell Vom Durrbachler Wald At Waldershelf (Imp Nld) 6 month old bitch of medium size. Another immature baby, enjoying her day out. Beautifully trained to stand correctly and moved with poise and soundness. A little finer and smaller than the winner, but enough bone for size; Has plenty of time to fill out. Pleasant head developing, correct stop, flat skull and kind expression. Level top line, strong legs and good tail set. Excellent deep pigment. All three baby puppies showing much promise.

 

Puppy Bitch (5/2)

1. Weston’s Bernfawr Jonquill 9 month old bitch of upper medium size. Quite an eye-catching puppy, looking very mature for her age. Hope she doesn’t grow too much more as she is looking slightly long in body. Excellent size and bone though, in fact very substantial for a puppy. All the signs of a future strong, working type. Beautifully marked, giving a typical look and presented in lovely order. Grand chest, broad and the brisket reaching to the elbow. Very good top line and well angulated, particularly in the rear, hence her movement was sound and true. Best Puppy in Show. Congratulations.

2. Morgan’s Judabern Graceful Lady  9 month old bitch of medium size. Lovely type, sweet expression and demeanour. Little apprehensive in the ring, but allowed me to examine her and stood her ground. Very good proportions. Liked her markings with such deep brown tan and black, glossy coat. Extremely feminine and attractive to the eye. Pleasing head, good length of neck and enough strength of forequarters. Slightly sloping top line, adequate turn of stifle and good tail set. Moved steadily.

3. Baker’s Bernfawr Just My Luck  9 month old bitch of medium size and litter sister to the winner. Not quite the stature and size, but a very presentable puppy with lots of time on her side to mature. Good proportions and angulations, strong, straight legs and firm back. Coat in reasonable order. All over the place on the move, very difficult to assess and definitely needs lots of ring training. Do persevere as she is well worth it!

 

Special Junior Bitch (6/2)

1. Miles’ Jaybiem My My My  16 month old bitch. Very substantial, compact and beautifully put together. Strong, feminine head, well-marked and correctly placed ears. Well-proportioned body with correct angulation, both fore and aft. Plenty of strength in body with a good turn of stifle and the so desired rounded rump. Super mover, very much altogether and striding out well.

2. Flanagan’s Collansues Precious Rock 13 month old bitch of “in between” development. A little rangy and long in body at present, but this impression will alter with maturity and coat growth. Strong, confident bitch, but would prefer a little more bone. Beautifully marked, deep pigment and attractive head. Good proportions, height to length. Well sloped shoulders, enough breadth, which will deepen with time. Very steady and sound mover.

3. Morgan’s Judabern Betty Blue 9 month old bitch, needing time to gain confidence, but stood to be examined. Nice little bitch, well balanced and quite shapely. Feminine head, but face a little plain. Good bone, correct proportions and strong back. Well ribbed with good neck length and level top line. Steady and sound on the move.

 

Junior Bitch (3/1)

1. Flanagan’s Collansues Something Rosie 16 month old bitch of excellent size, but looking long in body today due to lack of coat. Quite typy, with a sweet head developing. Good stop, flat skull and tight lipped. Kind expression. Lovely deep pigment complementing nice markings. Developing a rounded fore-chest, good slope of shoulder and able to stand four-square. Well compacted body, with good proportions and moved with a sound, steady gait. Excellent reach in front and follow through. Liked her a lot, shows great promise.

2. Knight’s Kernow Something Fancy 16 month old bitch. Slightly finer in size and bone than the winner, but a quality bitch who is well put together, has a medium length of neck, broad enough chest, well ribbed and firm, level top line. Plenty of strength in rear. Active on the move and very sound. Thought she might be my winner, but tends to bow a front leg in the stand. Exercise, which I am sure she gets plenty of and training, should correct this.

 

Yearling Bitch (8/4)

1. Flaxman’s Glanzberg See The Sun 23 month old bitch who was easily the best mover in the class. Ultra sound, so true, coming and going. Good sized bitch, nice for type and in lovely coat, which was shiny and wavy. Would have preferred deeper pigment alongside her medium sized markings. Adequate bone for size, with straight legs able to stand four-square. Feminine head with friendly expression and well developed fore face. Altogether a very nice bitch. We need to see more of her.

2. Handley’s Jesterbrook Alpine Joy at Enchambray 20 month old bitch, who was not as positive on the move as the winner. Honest, typy bitch though with enough bone, reasonable proportions and quite well balanced. Good depth of rib, well rounded and a settled top line. In very nice condition with a bright black, shiny coat. Sensible temperament and moved out easily around the ring.

3. Flippance’s Tickbern Upto Jenna at Nenebern  19 month old bitch. Rather on the portly side, which made her roll a little on the move. Although a smaller Bernese, she needs a little more bone and substance to create a more pleasing outline. Quite an honest bitch though, she stood firm, was reasonably well balanced and had good proportions of height to length. Pleasing head, expression and had that lovely deep pigment again, which always enhances the markings.

 

Novice Bitch (6/1)

1. Deradour’s Fortonpark Lily May 2 year old bitch of excellent size and bone. Nice markings, but a little plain in head. Kind expression and dark eye with a super flat skull. Strong, straight legs, and nice shape in profile. Firm top line, good angulation and correct tail set. Move out with a steady pace.

2. Handley’s Jesterbrook Alpine Joy at Enchambray.

3. Knight’s Kernow Something Fancy.

 

Graduate Bitch (5/1)

1. Flanagan’s Collansues Secret Wispa  2 ½ year old bitch, who was a large girl and so strong on the move. Handled expertly, as was needed, she had the drive and reach of an excellent draught dog, positive and free. She powered around the ring, albeit with a tail waving like a flag! This I forgave, as her virtues certainly outweighed her faults. She has excellent bone and substance, showing lovely maturity and presented in beautiful coat. Muscular neck, from all the pulling I guess, good slope of shoulder and firm, straight legs. This bitch has the making of a very typy Bernese and I am sure she has a promising future ahead of her.

2. Deradour’s Fortonpark Lily May

3. Flaxman’s Glanzberg See the Sun

 

Post Graduate Bitch (6/2)

1. Flanagan’s Collansues Sugar N Spice 3½ year old bitch. Another lovely, typy girl from this kennel. When they all mature, they will be a force to be reckoned with. Thought this girl made a beautiful picture, both standing and on the move. Very well handled to get the best out of her and she in turn showed herself to advantage. Feminine head with regular markings, good pigment, dark eye and strong, straight muzzle. Muscular neck, good slope of shoulder and well boned strong legs. Stood easily four-square on cat-like feet. Compact body, rounded rib, correct tail set completed the picture. Lovely condition displaying a deep black shiny coat, glistening in the sunlight. Moved easily and with strength.  Like her kennel mates, just needs time to get that desired “finish”.

2. Cowell’s Tickbern Rumour Has It at Danerybern  5½ year old bitch. Not unlike the winner in stance, just smaller in size. Beautifully marked with a feminine head and kind eye and expression. Not the most noticeable bitch on the move, but proved her worth in examination. What I would call an honest bitch, of good type. Confident and sensible she made nice profile. Correct angulation all round, straight firm legs and held her top line on the move. Would prefer a little more length of tail. Presented in good order.

3. Small’s Malindibeach Faberge Fancy  2½ year old bitch. Another similar to 2nd place in many of the virtues. Would like to see more bone and substance at this stage. Attractive, slightly marked girl with the deepest of pigment. Good head, kind expression and flat skull. Stood straight and firm with a well-proportioned body, plenty of depth of brisket and well angled stifle. Nicely rounded rump with full tail set low. Moved out with ease.

 

Mid Limit Bitch (9/2)

1. Miles’ Save Dallas Kiss for Jaybiem 3 ½ year old bitch. Has improved immensely in body and shape over the past year. Super substance, maturing well now with good body shape, firm top line and broad hindquarters. This helped to propel her around the ring with coordination and drive. Good reach and follow through. Nicely balanced head, dark eye and well developed foreface. Shapely body, with straight legs, firm back, rounded rump and correct turn of stifle. Confident and outgoing. In fine coat. Worthy winner.

2. Bridges’ Kernow All My Loving  3 year old bitch. A sturdy draught dog, feminine and cooperative. Steady on the move, well boned, correctly made. Liked her proportions and she made a lovely picture standing. Good strong shoulder, well laid back with a deep chest and brisket. Great substance with strong straight legs and good, rounded feet. Covered the ground with strength and purpose in a sensible, coordinated way. Friendly and willing.

3. Green’s Alpenspirit Que Sera Sera (imp Can) 4 year old bitch. Another very nice bitch, unfortunate to meet up with the two bitches in front of her. In such fine form today. Smaller than the other two, but well up to size. Kind, feminine head, with good markings and rich pigment. Nice angle of shoulder, brisket to elbow, well rounded rib with plenty of breadth. Good angulation at the rear, which helped to propel her around the ring in a steady sound fashion. Cooperative and willing.

 

Limit Bitch (11/5)

1.Vaychkus & Vaickus’ Blue Aira Bernenskie Ranczo JW Sh.CM (imp.Pol) 2 ½ year old. From the moment this bitch came into the ring, she looked the part and behaved with professionalism and poise. Ultimately feminine, she stood and watched me the whole time, holding her head with elegance. Alert, eager and presented in beautiful condition. Lovely type with a strong, compact body. Excellent bone, correct breadth of chest and well balanced. Still needs to drop a little to achieve the perfect shape, grow a touch more coat and show off her lovely shape. Moved with enthusiasm, with a strong, easy gait. True coming towards, but a touch close behind. Handled expertly to get the very best out of her. Unlucky to meet my two winners in Open, but her day will come. I predict a promising future.

2. Bridges’ Kernow Hallo Old Friend 3 ½ year old bitch. The old fashioned type, strong, steady and epitomising the true draught dog. Very worthy 2nd place here. Not unlike the winner in construction. Great bone and substance. Well balanced, both standing and on the move. Correct angulation, broad, level back and nice turn of stifle. Coat a little on the blow. Not as positive on the move as winner, but does have good forward reach and drive.

3. Cooke & Stevens’ Tickbern Tassimo  3 year old bitch. Smaller in size and not quite the substance of the 1st two placings. Nevertheless, a typey, honest girl with enough bone for size. Head a little plain, but has correct breadth to length, flat skull, dark eye and tight lipped. Well trained and able to stand firm and strong. Feet a little splayed. Good proportions and angulation. Level top line and correct tail carriage. Moved out with enthusiasm and soundness.

Open Bitch (13/5)

1. Sutton’s CH. Bernsteph Dior Remember Me JW Sh.CM. 4 ½ year old bitch. Stunningly beautiful Bernese. Epitomises all that I look for in a feminine, but working example of the breed. Excellent proportions for her size, but would prefer a little more length of leg. Her head is to die for – Soft, beguiling expression with the deepest brown eyes, correct stop and flat skull. Lovely bone with straight solid legs, neither turning in or out; Parallel front to back. Strong neck, deep brisket, compact body and smoothly rounded rump, leading to a thick bushy tail. The rump and the tail set are not often remarked on in critiques, but it is so important that a true Bernese has that lovely rounded rear with the correctly placed tail set. Too many Bernese, particularly males have flying tails, which is totally untypical. Here is a substantial, mature girl with a coat like velvet. Beautifully groomed and shining in the sun. I must say that every inch of her was presented to perfection. Obviously the Breed Standard must be considered first, but this is a Beauty Show too. She moved out strongly with good reach at the front and excellent drive from the back. All dogs have slight variations in leg movement when coming and going, but she was as good as you get today. This bitch stood firm and behaved impeccably for me to examine her in the class and later in the challenge. Thought she would go all the way today, but sadly was not to be. No hesitation in awarding her the Bitch CC. and Best Opposite Sex in Show. Congratulations.

2. Morgan’s Welshbern Sweet Lady at Judabern. 5 year old bitch. A lot of the virtues of the winner are present in this bitch too. Same strength, substance and angulation. Liked her a lot as she is upstanding, alert and beautifully proportioned. Quite flashy in markings, but did not distract from her sweet head, dark eyes and benevolent expression. She has correct shoulder placement, a strong back, good turn of stifle and nice tail set. She moved out with speed and confidence, true coming and going. In beautiful bloom she stood, proud and confident and I am sure she has a promising future too. Reserve Bitch  CC. Congratulations.

3. Marsden & Robertson’s Trudaleaze Majik Potion. 3 ½ year old bitch. Larger than the two winners, this bitch is under-rated. She is a true, solid, working Bernese, who has many virtues. A little plain in head, but is the correct shape and stop. Flat skull and well developed foreface. Lovely body shape with a level top line, strong and compact with straight, firm legs. Nice turn of stifle and good tail carriage. Strong, sound movement and stood with presence and confidence.

Veteran Bitch (6/1)

All veterans present were a credit to their owners. Well done.

1. Griffiths, Slade & Orme’s Jaybiem Vou Doo at Potterspride JW. 7 year old bitch.    4th in the Open Class of 13 entries – This shows that she is a sound, beautiful Bernese, who is still in her prime. Shown in excellent condition, full coat and showing all the confidence in the world. Good body, just marred by the slight drop in body shape. Excellent bone, angulation and correct proportions. Moved out with such presence and strength. Best Veteran in Show Congratulations.

2. Richard’s Ch. Tickbern Naughty But Nice Von Richenbern  7 ½ year old bitch. Such a lovely girl. Would prefer a little more substance and more coat on the day, but she is a beautifully proportioned Bernese, with great angulation and able to stand foursquare. One of the few whose legs stood parallel from front to back. Classic head, beguiling look and well-shaped. Very nicely marked, rich pigment and portrays a very feminine aura. Excellent upper arm, well laid back shoulders and firm top line. She is gentle and passive, but self-confident. Looking in a great healthy condition. A very worthy champion, who has moved into veteran with style. Today, the winner just had the edge as she was in full coat and moved with such class.

3. Tom’s Emberfay Moonglow 8 year old bitch, who took the ring in her stride and showed grace, health and stamina. Good size, still active and alert. Spayed coat unfortunately, always gives an un-natural appearance, but it is something we have to live with, with some bitches. Their life and health is more important. Very positive on the move and very happy to be sharing her day with the other dogs.

Mention must be made here of Shopland-Reed’s Kyleburn Night Prelude, 5th in Veteran, who was 12+ years old. She stood majestic to be examined, toured the ring at her own regal pace and was still sound all round. A great achievement for such an old lady in this breed. Many congratulations and long may she attend Bernese days like this.

 

CLICK HERE TO VIEW LOTS OF GENERAL PHOTOGRAPHS FROM THE SHOW

You can either look at the thumbnails as presented or click on any to open a scroll through gallery or click on the ‘Play arrow’ button slide near the top to view a slide show.

 

LIMITED OBEDIENCE SHOW

Judges Report by Julia Bodsworth

Thank you to the Bernese Mountain Dog Club Of Great Britain for the invitation to judge 5 classes of limit obedience at their Championship Show held at The Kennel Club Building, Stoneleigh on Saturday 23rd September 2017. I would also like to thank my ring steward, Helen Chetwynd, for giving up her day to guide our competitors around our ring for all 5 classes.

The ring we were allocated was somewhat out of the way, but being slightly apart from the breed show allowed our competitors the opportunity to perform to the best of their ability without the distractions of the other rings.

 

Special Pre-Beginners. 5 entered, 4 worked, 1 absent.

1.Chippis Diamond Wish. Annie. Annie produced some very nice ring work. During the heelwork Annie did drift out of position a few times due to a momentary loss of attention and went a bit wide on the turn. The recall was very nice with only minor crooked sits to mark. Annie came up with the goods during the stays with both sit and down stays clear – these excellent stay results were the decider between 1st and 2nd place. Well done.

2. Kernow Wogans Way. Paddington. After Paddingtons ringwork he was lying first, only drifting out of position a couple of times and a crooked sit to start in heelwork, and a crooked sit to start with in the recall. Unfortunately Paddington decided that today was not the day for him to sit, it was more of a lying down kind of day, breaking the sit stay early on, however, the down stay was clear so a well earned 2nd place.

3. Meadowpark’s All Eyes On Me. Albert. A good effort from Albert despite being quite distracted during heelwork, and perhaps a little more work required in the recall. Albert also decided that today was not a day to be staying put, but well done non the less.

 

Pre-Beginners. 7 entered, 3 worked, 4 absent

1.Chippis Real Diamond. Georgie. Very nice heel on lead, although there were a few occasions when Georgie drifted out of position during heelwork due not paying attention, which in turn caused the lead to go tight. Heel free was much better and Georgie paid more attention to the task in hand. Very nearly a clear recall, so straighten up those sits and I’m sure next time will be clear. Clear stays gave you a well earned 1st pace.

2. Chippis Diamond Wish. Annie. Another example of nice work during heel on lead resulting in equal marks with Georgie and a very nice recall which again had all the sits been straight would have been clear. Heel free was a slightly different story and Annie fancied a costly wander around. Good stays gave you 2nd in this class.

3. Bollinger Boo. Bolli. The heel on lead exercise resulted in very similar marks to 1st & 2nd place, so well done. As with the others, marks were lost for loosing attention, drifting in and out of position and the resulting tight leads. Bolli’s work was consistent throughout all of the exercises and if you can straighten up those sits at the beginning and end of all exercises you will gain improved marks. Stays were a different matter with the outcome resulting in you slipping one place into 3rd.

 

Beginners. 5 entered, 3 worked, 2 absent

1.Chippis Diamond Lily. Lily. Very nice heelwork with both heel on lead and heel free achieving the same marks. Try not to stop on your turns and make sure Lily is sitting straight at both the start and finish of the heelwork. Lilys recall was almost faultless….. just those darn crooked sits at the start and finish of the exercise.

2. Bollinger Boo. Bolli. Again Bolli produced some lovely heelwork, equaling first place in heel on lead, and doing slightly better in heel free. Good effort in the recall, but more practice required in the retrieve.

3. Chippis Real Diamond. Georgie. Heel on lead and heel free were of an equal standard to each other, Georgie perhaps needed the pre-beginner round to settle in? Nice recall which could only have been improved upon with a straight sit at the end, but again more practice required for the retrieve. Only a quarter of a point between 3rd & 2nd, so very well done.

In this class all 3 teams achieved clear stays, but the retrieve exercise proved to be the thorn in the side for all 3 teams, so you all know which area needs your attention.

 

Novice. 10 entered, 5 worked, 4 absent, 1 withdrew.

1.Malindibeach Perfect Poseur. Tiffany. What a super round! Very minor drifting out of position in both sets of heelwork, a crooked sit in the recall and retrieve and a bit of a chomp on the dumbbell were all that I could mark. With a clear temperament test and stays, a very worthy winner.

2. Chippis Diamond Lily. Lily. A very well earned second place for Lily this time. Lilys heel on lead was fabulous, a big difference to her beginner round and only a quarter of a mark off 1st place. Heel free was just as good as the beginner round and again only the crooked sits to mark in the recall. What ever happened between Lilys beginner round and Novice round made a huge difference to her retrieve, with this exercise now being her best instead of her worst and also being the best in the class. A clear temperament test and clear stays all contributed to great round. Well done.

3. Malindibeach Faberge Fancy. Faberge. Two great rounds of heelwork both on and off lead, one crooked sit in the recall and a couple of minor chomps on the dumbbell in the retrieve being all there was to mark. Faberge was not very comfortable with the temperament test which is where the marks were lost but with clear stays and good ring work a very credible 3rd place was earned.

 

Special Novice. 6 entered, 4 worked, 1 absent, 1 withdrew. 1

1. Malinidbeach Perfect Poseur. Tiffany. Another very well earned 1st place for Tiffany who produced another super round which had longer heel work and the addition of a stand stay. All exercises were executed very well, nice calm handling, a clear temperament test and all 3 stays clear resulted in Tiffany being placed 1st.

2. Malindibeach Faberge Fancy. Faberge. Faberge once again produced lovely heelwork both on and off lead. Consistency was demonstrated in the recall and retrieve, all 3 stays were clear and Faberge appeared much happier in the temperament test although she obviously wasn’t completely sure about it as she decided to sit part way through, but very well done.

3. Chippis Diamond Lily. Lily. To complete her hat trick Lily earned 3rd place in this class with good heelwork, especially in heel free, a very nice recall and retrieve and clear temperament test. Lily’s only down fall was completing the stand stay but the sit and down were clear. Lily definitely earned a good rest after placing in the top 3 in all 3 classes she was entered in. Well done.

 

CLICK HERE TO VIEW LOTS OF GENERAL PHOTOGRAPHS FROM THE SHOW

You can either look at the thumbnails as presented or click on any to open a scroll through gallery or click on the ‘Play arrow’ button slide near the top to view a slide show.