Interviewing Bitte Ahrens
According to your dog knowledge and personal experience, which are the most important elements in order to judge correctly? My strong believe is that, no matter what breed you judge, type and overall balance is the absolutely most important. That, of course, includes the movement. The judge must have a great knowledge of the standard, of course, but even more important is a good knowledge of the breed status. That means that, if you judge a breed, you must have interest and passion not only to learn the standard, but also be aware of the situation and the evolution of the specific breed. I think that, without having a passion and REAL and true interest for the breeds you judge, you will not be able to do a good job. Judging an IG, which is your method to evaluate the type to search and award? Since I had the fortune to grow up and live with this wonderful breed for more than 40 years, now I would answer that the elegant curves, flawless lines together with the so special and characteristic movement are what I always first would like for. The IGs are difficult to judge, since they really can change shape, just depending on handling, weather and mood. Trying to tell the “Thing” which makes the “Outstanding Achiever”, you can say that… …for my personal taste, an “outstanding” IG must have the elegance and correct bone structure, as well as beautiful lines and correct angulations in both front and rear, which hopefully will give also the so typical high neck carriage and elastic “dancing” and effective movement. Unfortunately, there…
Read More