AlifeWithPurpose Living with a Purpose-Bred Dog ArtIcleAndPhotosbydAnsAyers The breed standards are the foundation upon which conformation shows are built. Decisions made in the ring at all-breed, limited-breed and specialty shows are predicated upon how closely each dog compares to the ideal described by its standard of perfection. The very best dogs are said to bring the words of the standard to life, and judges often describe exhibits of superior quality as looking as though they are capable of doing the job for which they were bred. This sense of purpose is breed-specific and essential to main-
taining breed type. But what’s it like to actually live with a breed that’s intended to hunt or herd or simply have a good time? What’s it really like to live with a purpose-bred dog? Let’s take a look at some examples that highlight the historic functions of three distinctly different breeds.
Club of America, Inc. titled, “The German Shepherd Dog…,” the breed is described as having no equal in its service to mankind. As stated in the brochure, “It is a choice as a guide dog for the blind — for intelligence, loyalty, and dependabili- ty; of the Armed Services — for alertness, trainability, keen scent, and endurance; of civil authorities — for adaptability and courage; of trainers — for sensitivity and response (because a German Shepherd Dog loves to work); of artists — for its dramatic beauty; and of families everywhere — for devotion, trustworthiness, beauty and protection.” The pam- phlet goes on to state that as a drug detector, the breed serves the Custom service and airport security systems, and has been trained as a hearing dog and as an aid in the psychiatric treat- ment of young people. Clearly this is not a breed suited for the average couch potato or weekend warrior. The German Shepherd’s suitability for a seemingly endless list of duties has evolved over time. The original shepherd
Icon in Action Recognized internation- ally for its remarkable appearance, distinctive gait and commendable character, the German Shepherd Dog has achieved icon status, in
part, owing to its ability to multi-task. For each job accom- plished by any one of the specialist breeds, the “Shepherd” can easily manage two or three and still make time to watch over the kids. This breed can do just about anything it puts its mind to, and here lies the challenge for many dog owners today. When it comes to intelligence, discrimination and plain old power, the German Shepherd can prove more than a match for the average dog owner. In a pamphlet published by the German Shepherd Dog
The dependable German Shepherd Dog remains an efficient livestock herder.
52 • S how S ight M agazine , A ugust 2017
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