Midland & West of England GDC Colour Format Show 2026
Judge Claudia Kelleway
I had the honour of judging judging our beloved breed at the Colour format show 2026. I was given the opportunity to judge Blues, Harlequins, Blacks and Mantles at this show. I would like to extend my gratitude to the committee for the invitation and their support throughout the day. My amazing stewards made everything run smoothly and aided me throughout. Furthermore, I am extremely grateful to all the exhibitors who entrusted me with their beautiful dogs giving an entry of 27 — it was a pleasure to go over such well-presented exhibits. I was delighted to receive such kind comments from exhibitors afterwards, and it was especially pleasing that none of the dogs went down when being gone over. Thank you all for making the day so memorable — it was a real privilege to be part of it. I was particularly pleased to see my Best Mantle Dog go through to Best In Show and receive Reserve Best In Show.
Blues
Class 4 Blue Open Dog (1) 1. 21 Ferguson’s Int/Ir/Lux CH Elitedaimos Magick Mago at Chateaudain.
A powerful yet balanced masculine blue of excellent size, bone and substance, presenting a powerful yet balanced outline. Excellent overall proportions, presenting a strong, clean outline with correct length to height ratio. His head is masculine and square, with correct parallel planes, good breadth of skull and sufficient depth and length of muzzle. He also has enough lip to create a clean, classical profile without exaggeration. Dark eye and correctly set ears used to full advantage, giving that true ‘dash and dare’ Great Dane expression. A well-arched neck of good length flows seamlessly into correctly laid shoulders with good return of upper arm. Elbows positioned neatly beneath him, straight forelegs with ample bone and strong pasterns. Deep brisket reaching elbow, well-sprung ribs carried well back and strong loin. Firm, level topline maintained both standing and on the move. His hindquarters are well muscled with correct bend of stifle and strong second thigh, hocks well let down. On the move he was impressive — covering the ground with powerful reach and drive, yet remaining balanced and controlled. For a dog of his size he moved with surprising ease and fluidity. A very typical and commanding exhibit. Best Blue Dog.
Class 8 Blue Open Bitch (2) 1. 22 Ferguson’s Bel/Ir/Swe CH Renescent Too Hot To Handle for Chateaudain Lux JCh BW25 CW25 JW An elegant and beautifully balanced bitch, who epitomises femininity without loss of strength. She is beautifully proportioned throughout, presenting a harmonious, square outline. Her head is refined yet strong, with correct planes, good muzzle depth, and a lovely dark eye giving true Dane expression. Elegant, well-arched neck flowing into well-laid shoulders and a correctly constructed forehand with elbows under her body. Deep chest to elbow with well-sprung ribs and strong loin. Firm topline maintained at all times. Balanced angulation fore and aft giving a cohesive, harmonious picture. On the move she was controlled and purposeful, covering the ground with ease while maintaining her outline. A polished, classy bitch who was a true showwoman with elegance written all over her. Best Blue Bitch.
2. 49 Simpson’s Renescent Fugget About It Another graceful, quality bitch with a particularly pretty expression and lots to commend her for. Feminine head with pleasing expression, good length of neck flowing into a firm topline. Well constructed front with elbows well under her and good depth of chest. Balanced angulation throughout. This bitch moved out particularly well with excellent reach and drive, light and free in action. On the day just lacking coat, likely due to approaching season, but a quality exhibit.
Harlequins
Class 10 harlequin Junior Dog (2) 1. 38 Nunn’s Roshanun Conquistador A very promising young dog, superbly marked and already showing excellent foundations. Immediately balanced in outline, short-coupled and of good substance without heaviness, presenting a near-square silhouette for his age. Masculine head with correct planes, developing muzzle depth, good eye, and attentive expression. Well-arched neck flowing into well-laid shoulders with straight forelegs and good bone. Deep chest for his age with ribs carried well back and a firm topline maintained on the move. Balanced angulation fore and aft with strong second thigh already evident. Once settled, he moved freely and positively, covering the ground with reach and drive while maintaining his outline and profile balance. A youngster with excellent foundations and the correct framework to develop into something special.
2. 8 Bliss’ Fontanarossa Mighty Marius over Stagbatch Another promising, young, masculine dog. Strong head and masculine expression into a neck of good length set on good shoulders that were well laid back. With this young boy, something that caught my eye was how compact and short-coupled this dog was in profile and what a nice front he had giving an impressive front assembly and depth of chest for his age and good angulation front and rear. Level topline and balanced rear angulation. He moved out well and covered the ground nicely.
Class 11 Harlequin PG Dog (2) 1. 48 Shadbolt & Tempest’s Adoreadane Blazing Saddle (AI) A most impressive, upstanding Harlequin dog full of presence and character, standing proudly and using his ears to enhance that unmistakable ‘dash and dare’ expression. Square, masculine head with correct parallel planes well-proportioned head in profile. A well-arched and strong neck flowing seamlessly into well-laid shoulders with a well-set on front and elbows correctly positioned beneath him. Straight forelegs with tight pasterns and cat-like feet. A good depth of chest reaching elbow and nicely sprung ribs, a strong short loin, and solid topline he maintained at all times. He was well angulated both front and rear with powerful second thigh and strong hocks. Superbly clean, well-distributed Harlequin markings enhancing his outline. Once settled and on the move, he exhibited lithe, ground-covering movement combined with reach and drive, projecting confidence and ring presence that made him impossible to ignore - truly a dog who effortlessly commanded attention and showcased his quality. A dog full of himself and expertly handled. With a bit more weight on him, he’ll accentuate that impressive outline further. Best Harlequin Dog.
2. 29 Hitcham’s Dainoak Tempus Vincit at Chamith Another strong masculine dog with lots to commend him for. He had a well-proportioned masculine head with sufficient drop of lip and good muzzle strength. Correct ear set that I feel he could’ve used more to his advantage. A pleasing neck flowing nicely into a good lay of shoulder and an excellent deep chest. A compact dog with a firm topline he maintained on the move. Balanced angulation fore and aft. Just on the day, he needed more time to settle to show his full potential.
Class 12 Harlequin Open Dog(1) 1. 27 Henshall’s Calchas Bryan The Brave An impressive and mature Harlequin dog presenting a strong yet balanced silhouette. Square, masculine head with correct planes, dark eye and clean cheeks with good muzzle length. Well-arched neck flowing into an excellent lay back of shoulder with elbows correctly tucked under him. Straight forelegs with tight feet, deep brisket reaching elbow, and well-sprung ribs giving correct body proportions. Firm, level topline into strong, well-angulated hindquarters with powerful second thigh. Balanced throughout, giving a harmonious, square outline. Another nicely marked Harlequin On the move he showed sound, steady movement with purpose, though if he went slightly faster I feel he could’ve really demonstrated his reach and drive. A quality dog who combined substance with balance and elegance.
Class 13 HarlequinPuppy Bitch (2) 1. 30 Hugill’s Shalrace A Million Dreams This pretty young bitch was a picture of utter grace and elegance. A beautifully balanced and exceptionally graceful young Harlequin puppy bitch who immediately appealed for her overall quality and ring presence. So well-proportioned and square in outline for her age, she already shows correct angulation front and rear and possesses an elegant outline. Feminine head with correct proportions, good muzzle depth for her age, pleasing expression, and a lovely dark eye giving true Dane character. Well-arched neck flowing into well-laid shoulders with a deepening chest and good bone already developing. Firm topline maintained on the move, and balanced hindquarters complementing her overall outline. Beautifully marked with a pure white undercoat enhancing her striking appearance. On the move she showed remarkable confidence and composure for her age, covering the ground with excellent reach and drive, light on her feet, and already demonstrating strength and composure beyond her years. At the moment she still needs to settle fully, but with time and maturity she promises to develop into a very special example. Another exceptionally well-handled Dane. Best Harlequin Puppy.
2. 42 Pocock’s Tamzdane Cherry Crumble Another commendable bitch that could’ve swapped positions any other day. Already showing excellent bone and substance for her age while retaining femininity. Attractive, square head with correct parallel planes, good muzzle depth and sufficient lip, giving a balanced profile. Pleasing dark eye and alert expression. Well-arched neck flowing into well-laid shoulders with elbows placed correctly beneath her. Good depth of chest developing and nicely short-coupled, giving a balanced outline. Particularly well angulated fore and aft for such a youngster, with a strong second thigh already evident. Firm topline which she maintained on the move. She moved with light, springy action, covering the ground well with positive reach and drive. A quality puppy with much to look forward to as she matures, and very well handled.
Class 15 Harlequin PG Bitch (3) 1. Bliss’ Stagbatch Hi De Hi A substantial yet feminine bitch of excellent type and condition, who maintains elegance despite her size and strength. Square head with correct planes, sufficient drop of lip, good eye and confident expression, complemented by well-carried ears enhancing her breed character. Well-arched neck flowing into well-laid shoulders with a strong forehand. Deep chest to elbow, well-sprung ribs, strong loin, and short-coupled, giving a balanced outline. Firm topline maintained on the move with well-angulated hindquarters, good muscle tone, strong hocks, and sound, strong pasterns. Beautifully marked and presented in excellent condition, looking exceptionally well having had a litter not too long ago I believe. Moved with confidence, clearly enjoying her time in the ring - her charisma shone through with a wagging tail and lively, engaging presence. A polished bitch who combines strength, elegance, and showmanship.
2. 18 Evan’s Belarosedane Lady Bayleigh A feminine Harlequin bitch with a pretty, pleasing expression and good dark eye. Adequate depth of chest and well angulated front and rear. Moved freely and gracefully, covering the ground with ease, clearly enjoying her time in the ring. She exhibited a bright, confident attitude that complemented her elegant movement.
Class 16 Harlequin Open Bitch (2) 1. 26 Henshall’s Calchas Addition (AI) A quality, substantial Harlequin bitch who combines bone, substance, and femininity in correct proportion. Beautifully balanced throughout with a square outline. Feminine yet strong head with correct planes, sufficient drop of lip, dark eye, and attentive expression. Elegant, well-arched neck flowing into well-laid shoulders and excellent forehand construction. Deep brisket to elbow, well-ribbed body, and firm, level topline. Well-coupled without compromising balance, with excellent hind angulation, strong second thigh, and good muscle tone. Her movement was decisive and her winning attribute being so powerful, controlled, and ground-covering, yet maintaining outline and elegance at all times. A nice bitch with presence and substance, fully deserving of Best Harlequin Bitch. 2. 18 Evan’s Belarosedane Lady Bayleigh
Blacks
Class 19 Black PG Dog (1) 1. 28 Hitcham’s Belarosedane Satchmo Bowe at Chamith A strong, masculine Black dog of excellent bone, substance, and particularly excellent muscle tone. Square head with correct proportions, good muzzle depth, a good dark eye, and alert expression. Well-arched neck flowing into well-laid shoulders with strong forehand construction. Deep chest reaching elbow with well-sprung ribs carried well back. Compact, short-coupled body with firm topline maintained on the move. Balanced angulation fore and aft with strong second thigh, well-let-down hocks, and tight feet. On the move he was powerful, showing excellent reach and drive while maintaining his outline and balance. A commanding, well-handled dog who impressed in profile and movement, presenting masculine picture throughout.
Class 20 Black Open Dog (2) 1. 50 Simpson’s Renescent Bewitched JW.
A truly outstanding Black dog, an exemplar of the Great Dane, combining elegance, strength, and ring presence who evidently enjoyed every second. Beautifully proportioned head with correct planes, strong underjaw, good muzzle depth, and dark, expressive eye. Clean outline complemented by correct ear placement, which he used to full advantage to enhance his alert ‘dash and dare’ expression. Well-arched neck flowing into well-laid shoulders with elbows correctly placed. Deep chest, well-sprung ribs, firm topline, and square, compact outline. Strong croup and well-angulated hindquarters with muscular second thigh and strong hocks. On the move he was exceptional — combining powerful reach and drive with remarkable lightness and balance for his size. Ground-covering, free, and effortless, he moved with true presence, exuding breed type and quality in every stride. A perfectly presented dog, completely balanced in profile, and I am unsurprised to learn he has gained his title. Best Black Dog.
Class 22 Black Junior Bitch (1) 1. 3 Bielecka’s Alegriagiant Dare To Dream A very promising junior Black bitch with excellent foundations and a square outline. Feminine, well-proportioned head with correct planes, pleasing eye and expression, and ears set high on the skull which she used effectively. Elegant neck flowing into well-laid shoulders with straight forelegs and good bone for her age. Developing depth of chest and well-ribbed body, short-coupled and already showing good muscle tone. Firm topline maintained on the move with balanced angulation behind. She moved with confidence, positive reach, and excellent ground-covering stride. As she matures she should do well, with all the right foundations for future success.
Class 23 Black PG Bitch (2) 1. 19 Evan’s Belarosedane Beany Babybel A pleasing Black bitch, feminine yet strong, with good forehand construction. Pretty, well-proportioned head with correct planes and a pleasing expression. Well-laid shoulders with elbows correctly positioned, deep chest and well-ribbed body. Short-coupled and well-angulated hindquarters. Stood on tight, cat-like feet. Moved freely, with lithe, fluid stride, maintaining composure, and elegance on the move. Best Black Bitch.
2. 45 Reed’s Wildflower Patch at Minezara A commendable Black bitch, feminine yet strong, with a well-proportioned and attractive head showing correct planes and a pleasing expression. Good dark eye and attentive demeanor. Well-laid shoulders with elbows correctly positioned, straight forelegs, and tight, cat-like feet. A good chest with well-ribbed body and good angulation fore and aft. Moved well, with ease, lightness. A pleasing exhibit with a good ring presence
Class 24 Black open bitch (1) 1. 19 Evan’s Belarosedane Beany Babybel
Mantles
Class 25 Mantle Junior Dog (3) 1. 44 Pocock & Pavlou’s Bubba Von Pao Eberjager with Tamzdane (IMP FCA) A striking and excellently marked Mantle dog of strong, masculine type. He presents a balanced, powerful outline without exaggeration. Square, masculine head with correct parallel planes, good muzzle depth, firm underjaw, dark eye, and well-set ears used to emphasise his alert ‘dash and dare’ expression. Well-arched neck flowing into well-laid shoulders with well angulated front assembly and elbows correctly positioned beneath him. Deep chest to elbow, well-sprung ribs, and strong, short loin. Straight forelegs with ample bone and tight feet. Firm topline flowing into a well-shaped croup, with well-angulated hindquarters, strong second thigh, and well-let-down hocks. On the move he was particularly eye-catching, covering the ground with effortless reach, drive, and balance, maintaining his outline. He was handled well to the best of his ability, demonstrating both presence and potential. With further maturity, he could easily challenge at higher levels and with time might have taken Best Mantle Dog.
Class 26 Mantle Open Dog (1) 1. 41 Pocock’s CH/Int/Swiss/Lux/Bel/Dan CH Tamzdane Empower Mint JW An outstanding and as seen here a decorated champion, who is an excellent exemplar of the Great Dane, combining strength, elegance, and undeniable presence. Strong yet refined head with correct planes, good muzzle depth, dark expressive eye, and correctly placed ears enhancing his alert expression. Elegant, well-arched neck flowing into well-laid shoulders with elbows correctly positioned. Deep brisket, well-sprung ribs, firm topline, short-coupled and balanced throughout. Straight forelegs with tight feet. Strong, well-angulated hindquarters with powerful second thigh and well-let-down hocks. On the move he was simply extraordinary — commanding the ring with effortless authority, reach, and drive while maintaining perfect outline and balance. Every stride exuded confidence and presence, as if to say he owned the ring and demanded to be watched. A true showman full of charisma, exemplifying the breed at its very best. Best Mantle Dog. RESERVE BEST IN SHOW.
Class 27 Mantle Junior Bitch (3) 1. 43 Pocock’s Lambrini A Girl Like Me At Tamzdane A well-marked Mantle bitch with excellent substance while retaining femininity. Feminine head with correct planes and dark eye. Well-arched neck flowing into well-laid shoulders, straight forelegs, and tight, cat-like feet. Deep chest with well-sprung ribs and firm topline. Strong, well-angulated hindquarters with powerful second thigh and well-let-down hocks. Short-coupled offering a balanced outline. On the move she moved with reach and drive, maintaining a clean outline at all times. Her ground-covering stride, balance, and presence gave the impression of confidence and maturity beyond her years. A very pleasing exhibit, whose movement was her standout feature. Best Mantle Bitch. 2. 4 Biecklas Alegriagiant Casjopeya Another lovely Mantle bitch with a balanced outline and correct proportions. Attractive square head and expressive eye. Well-laid shoulders into straight forelegs with tight feet. Deep chest, well-ribbed body, and firm topline. Short-coupled and balanced throughout, with well-angulated hindquarters and strong second thigh. Moved freely showing sound stride and maintaining her outline. An elegant exhibit with a good ring presence and again, another well-marked mantle.
Claudia Kelleway