DRIFFIELD CHAMPIONSHIP DOG SHOW

Judges Critiques

Patsy Hollings

Judging: Utility Group

Driffield championship show .2026.

Utility Group.

What a delight to have the appointment to judge the Utility Group at the 50th. Anniversary show and the first show at the new venue. The committee were on good form and my time with all of them and the president, The Lord Kirkham was most enjoyable, thank you.

The quality of the exhibits in the Utility Group was really good, which made me have to be on my metal. 

Group 1 was the Tibetan Spaniel PROUVE, Mr L & MORAN, Mr A - Castafiore Sevastyan . This one captivated me today. So typical with poise and stride from excellent construction and breed features and that added charm from a bit of a cheeky behaviour at times. Produced in excellent condition and muscle all topped by a gleaming silky coat. I just kept being drawn to him.

Group 2 was the Miniature Schnauzer WOODS, Misses R & L - Ch Penbro Talk Of The Town. Apparently, I gave this one the CC last year, obviously I haven’t changed my thoughts. Super head piece, correct ear and use, dark expressive eye, down to Strength in clean muzzle with firm whiskers. Dry muscular neck, absolutely soundly built. produced in first class body and harsh coat. Worked accurately with quiet attentive handler.

Group 3 was the German Spitz (Mittel) BARNES, Ms L & KING, Miss I - Ch Kitsune The Lioness At Izlou (ai). Compact balanced, alert to handler with profuse double coat, gave the first look that said quality and deportment. Hands on the feeling just cemented that satisfaction. However, it was the action on the move that confirmed that this one had to be in the placings. What a beauty. 

Group 4 was the Tibetan Terrier RAUHUT, Mrs S - Ch AKC Dk Dutch Esp Ch World Swed Lux Ch Ti La Shu PS I Love You. This team were both eye-catching and on fine form to deserve their win in this strong line up. The effort that had gone into producing this one by the handler made one look twice. The deportment and smooth ground cover reflected the excellent skeletal construction and firm balanced body properties.

Also (and well deserved) into the shortlisted the Miniature Poodle LEE-MORRIS, Mr A Ch Michandy It's Showtime At Pupstar JW, Lively, fit with great personality, the Standard Poodle BARKER, Mrs Linda & BARKER, Miss Fenella & BARKER, Ch Montego Am I Kenough For Crystalar Immaculate and totally at one with handler. JW, the young healthy Bulldog, EATON, Mrs Victoria & EATON, Mr Richard Ricatori Vita Vee, who must have an exciting future. and the Dalmatian GREEN, Mrs J S & SEARS, Mrs J A Alphadal Aint Misbehaving At Judally JW. Beautiful shape and condition , showing no signs of being a veteran.

Judge, patsy Hollings