Dog Breed Descriptions
Purebred dog breed standards are more than just a description of good looks. A dog who conforms to the breed standard is structurally and temperamentally healthy and capable of performing the function he was originally bred for.
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Breed Registries
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There are three reputable breed registries in North America. The most well-known is the American Kennel Club (AKC). The United Kennel Club (UKC) and the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) each recognizes about 150 breeds.
Breed Groups
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Breeds are grouped by purpose and description. The AKC groups are Working, Herding, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, Hound and Sporting.
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Physical Standard
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To be eligible for showing, dogs must fit the physical standard of the breed. These can be very detailed, covering everything from size, coat color, texture and length to how the ears are positioned on the head and the height of the toes.
Purpose
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The reason for breed standards is to ensure soundness and suitability for the original purpose. A Labrador without the proper water-repellent coat would get too cold to retrieve in water all day, or a Malamute with splayed feet would not be able to comfortably pull a sled.
Breeding
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Ethical breeders put a lot of thought into ensuring their breeding dogs conform as closely as possible to the ideal breed description.
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References
- Photo Credit Stevie MacDonald
