A breed standard is a detailed description of the perfect dog of
that breed. Breeders use the standard as a guide in their breeding
programs, and judges use it to evaluate the dogs in conformation
shows. The standard is written by the national breed
club, using guidelines established by the registry that recognizes
the breed (such as the AKC or UKC).
The first section of the breed standard gives a brief overview
of the breed’s history. Then it describes the dog’s general
appearance and size as an adult. Next is a detailed description
of the head and neck, then the back and body, and the front
and rear legs. The standard then describes the ideal coat and
how the dog should be presented in the show ring. It also lists
all acceptable colors, patterns, and markings. Then there’s a
section on how the dog moves, called gait. Finally, there’s a
general description of the dog’s temperament.
Each section also lists characteristics that are considered to
be faults or disqualifications in the conformation ring.
Superficial faults in appearance are often what distinguish a
pet-quality dog from a show- or competition-quality dog.
However, some faults affect the way a dog moves or his overall
health. And faults in temperament are serious business.
You can read all the AKC breed standards at www.akc.org
