My introduction to the fascinating hobby of exhibiting dogs started in 1972 with a Dalmatian, Buffrey Gulliver. He was the perfect companion for my two sons, being so gentle and tolerant. I borrowed a book from the library to learn more about the Breed and was totally hooked on the section re:Dog Shows. I learnt so much from this lovely dog about presentation and how to make the most of his ”positives” and illiminate his ”negatives”.
With a young family to care for Dog Shows were few and far between, yet he won well enough, taking several Open Show Best in Shows and qualifying for Crufts over many years.
I joined a local All Breed Club Committee and learnt how shows are run and stewarded for many years at Open and Championship shows, gainning valuable experience and advice from the Top judges of the era.
The Shih Tzu soon caught my attention with their amazing expressions, ”in your face” attitudes and a zest for life. Always willing to please and be the centre of attention. They so enjoy stubborn moments of ”I already moved once, weren’t you watching ? Why should i move again. I watched the Breed for seven years before aquiring my first dog:Delridge Golden Orion, born in 1979 [he lived 17.5 years]. A fabulous dog to live with, a born showman who took me to great heights, winning 3 Reserve Challenge Certificates and many Open Show Best in Shows.My first Champion was an exquiste bitch:Champion Bowstones Shu Shan who ”made up” in 1987. She was a gift from her breeder, Mrs. Irene Booth who had watched my steady progress and felt i needed a little help with my breeding programme to win at the highest level. Sadly her offspring were not as good as herself or her carefully chosen mates. Also, sadly, Mrs. Booth died before seeing her generous gift achieve her Champion title.
My ”Dog of a Lifetime” :Champion, Irish, Spanish, Finnish Ch. Daltricia Menelaus JW ShCM [10-03-2000 – 24-02-2015] was a ”joy to live with” and ”a dream to show”, he won his UK Title at just 16 months and one day of age. He is my facebook profile picture.
I have ”madeup” six Shih Tzu Champions and currently have a young bitch on one CC. I first awarded Challenge Certificates in 1991, Crufts 2017 will be my tenth appointment.
I am thrilled to be invited to judge SSTON Special Club Show in Skelleftea in April 2016, and look forward to seeing your beautiful dogs.
Regards Pat Maule