Dog Breed Standards

Purebred dogs must meet certain breed standards before they can be eligible for show or breeding purposes. Every breed has been assigned qualities regarding size, color, coat and physical features. In order to participate in a dog show, registration with a recognized breed club such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) is required.

  1. Function

    • Breed standards function to keep the breed consistent in size, look and temperament from one generation to the next. While ranges exist in size and sometimes in color, each breed should be distinguishable from all other breeds. A detailed pedigree listing the dog's sires and dams is issued to a purebred dog. It is this pedigree that determines if the dog is eligible for registration into a breed club or to compete in dog shows.

    Benefits

    • Breed standards benefit dog owners. When purchasing or adopting a specific breed, the new owner knows what to expect because the breed standards dictate size and temperament. For example, the Belgian Malinois is frequently preferred by law enforcement and the military for its size and ability to learn quickly. These standards help a dog owner choose a dog that is appropriate for his situation

    Types

    • There are many different aspects to dog breed standards. General appearance, size, proportion, substance, head dimensions, neck, top line and body dimensions are part of every breed standard. Hindquarters, color, size, temperament and gait are measured in every breed. Certain characteristics are considered faults. Some faults are grounds for disqualification from competitive show. In certain breeds, faults include brindle color, size (too short or too tall) or a nose color, ear length and tongue color that is not allowed. Other faults include legs that bow in or out and rear dewclaws.

    Considerations

    • Dog owners take into consideration breed standards when looking to purchase or adopt a dog. Size is a breed standard that new dog owners count on. Apartment dwellers usually prefer small breeds over large breeds due to space constraints. Hunters prefer dogs specifically bred to assist in the hunt. For example, coonhounds are bred to track and tree raccoons. Labrador retrievers are bred to assist with duck and waterfowl hunting.

    New Breeds

    • In order to gain recognition by a national kennel club, a breed must meet certain qualifications. Breeding records showing that the breed produces offspring consistent with the breed standards year after year are required. Tracking of ownership and keeping of accurate pedigrees is important. Published breed standards are required. The breed must have regional and local club sponsorship. Contact a national kennel club such as the AKC for specific details on registering a new dog breed.