A Breed Standard is a written 'blueprint' of a Standard of perfection for a Breed. It outlines the physical characteristics and temperament qualities to which a breeder strives to achieve in their breeding program. The standards for all recognized Canadian breeds are found on the website of the Canadian Kennel Club. The Standard outlines correct structure, movement, coat type, colour and many other physical attributes specific to the Breed. It also describes the appropriate temperament that is expected and what role the Breed was bred to fulfill, ie guarding, herding etc. The Standard also outlines what is not allowed for in the Breed, under two categories, Faults - which are not preferred - and Disqualifications - which should exclude the dog from both the Breed Ring and a Breeding program.
The role of the Judge:
The Judge's role is to compare each dog to the Breed Standard. They are not to attempt to visualize how the dog may mature but are to judge the dog as it appears before them 'on that day.' When competing against another exhibit (which is what a dog is called when competing), they are to be graded against the Standard and placed in the position of quality as interpreted by the Judge. How the Judge interprets the dog's quality can also be influenced, positively or negatively, by the way in which the dog is presented to them (the handling) and the quality of the presentation (the grooming).
The role of the Exhibitor:
The physical and temperament qualities of the dog can be enhanced or detracted from by the abilities of the exhibitor or handler (the person showing the dog) and the quality of grooming (each breed has a specific grooming process).
Exhibitors can be owners, breeder/owners, professional handlers, and Junior Handlers and it is their role not only to learn how to groom their dogs but to know the movement that is appropriate to their Breed as laid out in their Breed Standard under "Gait". Using two extreme examples, let's look at the Doberman Pinscher and the Pekingese, and how their movement is described in their Standards. We will then follow with presentation of coat (grooming).
Examples of Gait:
"The gait should be free, balanced, and effortless with good reach in the forequarters and good driving power in the hindquarters. When trotting here should be a strong rear action drive. Hocks should fully extend. Each rear leg should move in line with the foreleg on the same side. Rear and front legs should be thrown neither in nor out. Back should remain strong, firm and level. When moving at a fast trot the properly built dog will single track." (Doberman Pinscher)
"Fore-action: slow, dignified, rolling gait caused by body being heavy in front and lighter hind-quarters, with forelegs being bowed and hindquarters being close and parallel. The typical rolling action is not to be confused with a roll caused by slackness of shoulders that will not flow freely. Hind-action: close, steady and free. Soundness essential. This motion is smooth and effortless and is as free as possible from bouncing, prancing or jarring. There is adequate reach and moderate drive." (Pekingese)
Examples of Grooming:
"Smooth haired, short, hard, thick and close lying. Invisible grey undercoat on neck permissible." (Doberman)
"It is a long, coarse-textured, straight, stand-off outer coat, with thick, soft undercoat. The coat forms a noticeable mane on the neck and shoulder area with the coat on the remainder of the body being somewhat shorter in length. A long and profuse coat is desirable providing it does not obscure the shape of the body. Long feathering is found on toes, backs of the thighs and forelegs, with longer fringing on the ears and tail. Presentation should accentuate the natural outline of the of the Pekingese. Any obvious trimming or sculpting of the coat, detracting from its natural appearance, should be severely penalized." (Pekingese)
At first glance, there appears to be little to do with the Doberman coat but tidying up, and, although, a good "tight" will not hide many faults, a clever groomer can still accentuate graceful lines and move the Judge's eye away from more obvious faults. There is much in the presentation, at that day, that can influence a Judge without them being consciously aware of it...
A dog show may be a fun day out for those who come to watch their favourite breed, however, to those who dedicate their lives to this sport, it is a serious competition where their hard work and outlay in time and money is evaluated not only within their Breed but also in All Breed rankings.
What does this mean to the average dog owner and why should you care?
Dog shows can be the first place where you have actual contact with that Breed you saw on the Westminster Kennel Club dog show that airs each February. Or maybe you saw a photo in a magazine or while surfing the Web and fell in love with a face. Faces can be infatuating but that kind of love can be fleeting especially when it chews up your favourite sofa or its' need for exercise outlast the most ardent speedwalker.
Responsible breeders and Breed Fanciers (who may not breed but have extensive knowledge of their breed) are found most regularly attending dog shows that are held throughout the year. The Halifax Kennel Club shows in February are the first on the calendar for the Atlantic Provinces and are eagerly anticipated by many exhibitors after a 3 month winter respite. The promise of possible wins for new puppies, finishing Championships and goals of Group and Best in Show competitions brings back ardent conformation exhibitors year after year. Ever the optimists, ever trying to create a dog closer to their Standards points of perfection.
Watch, look and listen at dog shows then do your homework. Remember that the dogs that you see in the ring have had hundreds of hours of training, grooming, socialization and thousands of dollars have gone into creating a good dog that represents its Breed. You will not find these breeders casually handing off their much treasured puppies simply because you have the money to purchase them. Those dedicated to their Breeds take a long term outlook on each and every puppy they produce. They test their dogs and are aware of what problems may arise both within the Breed and their specific breeding program. They want to make certain that the best match is made between you and their puppy and, most importantly, is that breed for you?
Before contacting a breeder, do your homework. Don't hurry and make an emotional decision that you will regret. Be an informed individual and make the right choices for you and your new canine friend.
