TERRIER JUDGE Q&A
Bedlington with his mild and gentle expression, which belies a fierce foe, and the Scottie with his tough, down the nose look and varminty expression. How would I assess the overall quality of the “newer” Terrier breeds? I think some are doing quite well and have become very competitive. Most are very low entry breeds, and it is difficult to improve with that; it just takes more time. In my opinion, what makes a Terrier the ideal companion? Again, there are different Terriers and all cannot be lumped as one. But with the ones I have lived with (Fox Terrier, Mini Schnauzer, Westie), if you want a devoted, but somewhat independent, dog that is fearless but obeys you, then a Terrier might be the right choice. Why is “Montgomery” a significant show for so many breeders/ exhibitors outside of Terriers? It is just the history and mystique associated with seeing so many superb examples of many breeds that draws everyone; just the stories one hears of experiences over the years; the longevity of the show; the worldwide interest and attendance. Which Terriers from the past have had the greatest influence on the sport? I would have to say Ch. Torum’s Scarf Michael, shown by Bill McFadden. Such a beautiful, true example of the breed. BETSY DALE
Smooth Fox Terrier, but later, was totally flummoxed by the cutest, sweetest, happiest Bull Terrier puppy, and had to give it back. Why is “Montgomery” a significant show for so many breeders/ exhibitors outside of Terriers? They come to learn. Montgomery County is the perfect event to see significant numbers of each breed, all in one venue. Breeders, exhibitors, and visitors come from all over the country and the world to see this special gathering of all the Terriers! Which Terriers from the past have had the greatest influence on the sport? I think more as a breeder in terms of important, “water- shed” dogs that are found in the history of each breed. Is there a funny story I can share about my experiences judging the Terrier breeds? There was a time when a Malamute was waving his lovely plume of a tail under the fence, right at the end of the down and back. It sure looked like a varmint to the eager Terriers! Any time you are judging Terriers, you need your sense of humor— and you’ll have loads of fun! JOHNCONSTANTINE-AMODEI
Where do I live? How many years in dogs? How many as a judge? I live in Nokomis, Florida. I’ve been in dogs for 46 years, judging for 18 years. Do I have any hobbies or inter- ests apart from purebred dogs? Hiking and cooking. Can I talk about my introduction to Terriers? I started out by getting a Minia-
I started judging in 1984 after 20 years breeding and showing Airedales. I also have had Scotties, Welsh Terriers, and Brussels Griffons. I am approved for the Terrier, Toy, and the Non-Sporting Groups. I have had the honor to judge many Specialties, Group Shows, and All- Breed Shows in the US, Canada, South Africa, Mexico, Venezuela, Finland, Ger-
ture Schnauzer in the 1970s. I learned the coat work and grooming from Sue Baines who was a Schnauzer/Terrier specialist. I worked for her on the weekends at shows. I also worked with Bill Farrera with Westies; learning from him as well as showing some dogs for him Have I bred any influential Terriers? Have I shown any notable winners? I bred Ch. Adamis Frontrunner who was a multiple Group winner in the 1990s, but who really had his influence in breed- ing. He sired 39 American champions. I also bred Am/S. African/ UK Ch. Adamis Supernatural who was the first dual American and UK champion. Can I speak a bit about breed-specific presentation and coat conditioning in the Terrier breeds? Different Terrier breeds are shown differently, of course, but all must be properly groomed. The grooming, while stylized, is still a reflection of what they were bred to do. The hard-coated Terriers need that harsh coat to protect them from the harsh conditions in which they worked. The beards and furnishings were to help protect them from bites by their quar- ry. I like to see a Terrier shown on its own, with the handler stand- ing, and not stacking and holding the dog in place. They should be active and hold themselves together. What about breed character? Can I share my thoughts on spar- ring in the ring? Again, different Terriers have different characters. Not all Terriers spar. For those that do not spar, you still want them to come out and stand, looking with interest and presenting a good picture. For those that do spar, they should stand up and look at each other like a prize fighter; on their toes, ready to take on the world. I think you should only spar two dogs at a time, otherwise it can get a bit wild. I wish judges would spar more often and let the dogs show themselves at their best. That said, I feel handlers today do not prepare their dogs to spar in the ring; perhaps because spar- ring is not usually done, but I don’t know. Too often, when I bring out two dogs to spar, all they do is look to their handlers for a treat. Many Terrier breeds are known for their singular expres- sion. Can I offer a few examples? A few examples are the AmStaff with his completely proud and fearless expression, the
many, Australia, China, Taiwan, and Thailand. I am a life member of the Ann Arbor Kennel Club (MI), and Show Chair of the Terrier Club of Michigan. Where do I live? How many years in dogs? How many as a judge? I live in Michigan, and I have been a dog lover all my life. I started judging in 1984... 37 years ago! Do I have any hobbies or interests apart from purebred dogs? I have a career in sales, and have traveled extensively to 49 states and six continents! Hobbies include family, reading, games, cooking, gardening, sewing, and meeting up with friends for dining adventures! Can I talk about my introduction to Terriers? My introduc- tion was made through the Disney movie, The Ballad of Hector the Stowaway Dog ; an Airedale. Then I went to a dog show, and I was hooked. Of course, it took lots of mentoring to get a proper, com- petitive dog. Have I bred any influential Terriers? Have I shown any notable winners? Ch. Marydales Headliner, an Airedale, and Ch. Sea Aire Bruhil Carsey, a Welsh. Can I speak a bit about breed-specific presentation and coat con- ditioning in the Terrier breeds? Perfection comes with a lot of work! (Physical conditioning, no flabby muscles or extra fat.) Coat is pre- sented according to the standard, with no shortcuts. Reality brings less than that, but we can hope for the best. What about breed character? Can I share my thoughts on spar- ring in the ring? It is very important to spar when appropriate, as it shows off their best look and personality. The Terrier Club of Michigan made a video on this, and it is available on YouTube with over 11,000 viewers so far! Many Terrier breeds are known for their singular expression. Can I offer a few examples? If you watch certain breeds, such as Fox, Lakeland, and Welsh, you can see how they are always looking
SHOWSIGHT MAGAZINE, SEPTEMBER 2021 | 181
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