07/04/2026
The first critique is in from Sylvia Pse
Rhodesian Ridgebacks
Premier Open Show - South West Hound Club 6th April 2026.
I would like to say a big thank you to The South West Hound Club for the invitation to judge this well-supported class of Rhodesian Ridgebacks, especially Chairman Mr D Adams, Secretary Mrs G Adams, and the committee, for inviting me to judge Rhodesian Ridgebacks at your Premier Open Show on 6th April 2026. It was a real honor to be part of such a well-run and friendly event.
I was also very pleased to be assisted by such lovely and efficient stewards, including MW Sanders. It was a privilege to have such an experienced and high-calibre judge working alongside me, and their support contributed greatly to the smooth running of the ring.
Thank you also to all the exhibitors who entered and came along on the day. It was a pleasure to judge your lovely dogs, and I truly appreciate your support.
Open Dog Class
1st - Best Open Dog and BOB
SOFALA RAFFAELLO (Ai) JW
A thoroughly impressive male who stood out immediately for his overall balance and breed type. He presents a strong, masculine outline without coarseness, with excellent proportions and a well-defined ridge correctly placed and carried. His head is clean and of good length, with a pleasing expression and correct ear set.
He has a well-laid shoulder, good depth of chest, and a firm topline held both standing and on the move. His hindquarters are muscular and well-angulated, allowing him to move with drive and purpose. On the move, he covered the ground effortlessly, maintaining a true and straight action coming and going, with excellent reach in front and powerful propulsion behind.
Condition was first class, and he was handled to advantage. A worthy winner of Best Open Dog and Best of Breed, combining type, soundness, and overall presence.
Special Yearling Dog or Bitch Class
1st - Best Special Yearling, Best Puppy and RBOB
SOFALA JACK OF ALL TRADES
A very promising young exhibit who appealed for his overall balance and clean outline. He is well put together with good proportions and developing nicely for his age. Pleasing head with a kind expression, correct ear placement, and a well-defined ridge.
He stands on good bone with neat, compact feet and shows a well-laid shoulder and adequate return of upper arm. The topline is firm and held well, with a nicely balanced outline. Hindquarters are developing well, showing sufficient angulation and muscle for his stage of maturity.
On the move, he is sound and true, covering the ground well with an easy, flowing action. At times still a little immature in coordination, as expected at this age, but he has all the essentials in place and should continue to improve with time and experience.
A quality youngster with a bright future ahead.
Puppy Dog or Bitch Class
1st - Puppy
SOFALA’S PINK CADILLAC
A most striking youngster who caught my eye immediately for their classical silhouette and effortless style. This exhibit presents a very clean, symmetrical outline that is both elegant and substantial, showing great balance for this stage of development. The head is of excellent proportions with a kind, intelligent expression and correct ear carriage.
There is a lovely flow from the neck into well-placed shoulders and a deep brisket, standing on a good bone with neat, compact feet. The ridge is well-defined and symmetrical, while the topline remains impressively firm and level on the move. Hindquarters are well-developed with a good turn of stifle, producing a rhythmic, ground-covering gait with plenty of reach and drive. A high-quality puppy, very well-schooled and possessing all the essentials for a bright future.
2nd - Puppy
ZEJAK CHINOSA
A high-quality youngster of a slightly different type, possessing a strong, masculine frame and a lovely rich coat. This exhibit shows plenty of substance and bone for their age, maintaining a balanced outline while standing. The head is well-modeled with a good stop and ears that are correctly set, though they were a little more unsettled in expression today.
They show a clean neck leading into well-developed withers and a deep chest. The ridge is clear and symmetrical with correct crowns. While the topline was firm, they lacked the total stability and coordination of the winner on the move. However, they possess a strong rear with good angulation and move with determination. A very promising puppy that just needs a bit more time to find their "ring legs" and mature into their frame.
