In direct opposition to these noted issues, I did appreciate the many virtues of the breed presented to me. There were numerous beautiful healthy, very alert and attentive, energetic specimens with glorious head pieces which were well developed, strong and masculine or feminine, depending on the sex. In addition, I noted many with the proper medium-­‐size, dark brown, almond shaped eyes with tight fitting rims and only a minimal amount of haw visible. Ear sets were well above the cheekbones in both cropped and uncropped specimens. The lovely proper coat texture and healthy skin condition was just "icing on the cake". Some excellent muscling was noted on even the younger dogs/bitches, which allowed them to move free and easy through the shoulder assembly. Strong and level top lines were appealing in those dogs that were conditioned and this was quite evident in their proper tail carriage while in motion and movement. I truly was impressed with the overall temperament of the entries where they displayed keen enthusiasm for the ring. Soundness both physically and mentally was evident through the entire regional entry with just a couple where character detracted from their over-­‐all performance on the day. The breeders and exhibitors should be very pleased with their breeding stock which are producing good, sound specimens. I commend them for their efforts to improve upon the breed. Thank you again for the very special honor of judging your Regional Specialty prior to your first stand-­‐alone National Specialty weekend in Wilmington, Ohio which was very special and memorable to me. Dr. Steve Keating Dallas, TX USA 23