How to Measure for Dog Breed Standards

Accurately measuring your dog can determine whether your dog complies to breed standards. To compete in shows and offer your dog for stud breeding, he must meet the standards officially set for the breed, including proportion, position, behavior and height. Some of these standards are subjective, and most of them vary greatly by breed. Before breeding and at shows, purchasers of stud rights and judges reserve the right to measure and evaluate the animal, so it is imperative to take accurate measurements and record them with your local kennel club and the American Kennel Club (AKC).

Things You'll Need

  • Second helper
  • Wicket or two yardsticks
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Instructions

  1. Measure and Record Height

    • 1

      Position your dog in a still, standing position looking forward on a flat and level surface. According to Norwegian Elkhound breeder Susan Hamilton, use a grooming table, if possible, for accuracy. Ask your helper to pet your dog to keep her in a stable position. If necessary, your helper may have to gently restrain him.

    • 2

      Position your dog's feet in the appropriate position for her breed.

    • 3

      Place the U-shaped wicket over the shoulders of the dog, if you are measuring with a wicket. Read the measurement on the wicket at the highest point and record the measurement using pen and paper.

    • 4

      Measure your dog using two yardsticks if you do not have a wicket. Rest one yardstick flat against the dog's shoulder. Intersect this stick with a vertically placed yardstick. Record your measurement at the intersection of the yardsticks.

    • 5

      Compare your dog's measurements with the breed standard by researching the standards on the AKC site.

    Measure Additional Standards

    • 6

      Assess your dog's behavior with strangers. A dog that demonstrates extreme nervousness or snappy behavior usually receives an instant disqualification at dog shows. You can help your dog by allowing new visitors to inspect him if the dog has previously shown no signs of aggression. She should remain comfortable while strangers lift her and touch areas of concern, such as lips and teeth, hips, paws, and tail.

    • 7

      Examine your dog's proportions and compare them to the AKC breed standard. Some proportions are subjective, but the AKC clearly outlines proportions on most dogs breeds, such as coloring, markings and placement of facial features.

    • 8

      Compare your dog's coat texture with the breed standard. Depending on the breed, dog coats may need to be thick, shiny and able to be clipped for show in some cases. If the texture of your dog's coat is not up to standard, consult your veterinarian. Coat dullness is often correctable through slight dietary changes.

    • 9

      Check your dog's teeth. Show dogs must have all their teeth. They should be straight and in most breeds there should be no overbite or underbite. Teeth should also appear white̵2;to accomplish this, practice dental care with your dog.

    • 10

      Study and replicate additional tasks required for your dog's breed. Some breeds are judged heavily on quirky attributes. For example, German Shepherds must form and maintain a specific stance while being judged.