The Back, Topline and Tail Set From the AKC breed standard ³the bacN is strong and firm,
Summary These elements of breed type should not be overlooked when judging the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon. They are listed in no specific order. • Structurally sound front assembly: This is critical in the field and very difficult to get back once a breed loses this functional characteristic. • Slightly sloped topline, parallel to the ground during movement, no dips. • Reach and drive: should be able to see rear pads at the trot; front legs should reach to the end of the nose. Correct movement is essential. • Coat Texture: As a sporting dog, the medium-length (2 Ý to 3 Ý in length), harsh coat is important. Check the coat on the back away from any plates (spots). The breed should be exhibited in full body coat, not stripped short in pattern. Trimming and stripping are only allowed around the ears, top of head, cheeks and feet. • Well-muscled rear with moderate angulation – Long thigh bone, angulation balanced with the front. • Size – The Griff is a substantially-built sporting dog, but being over the height standard
descending in a gentle slope from the slightly higher withers to the base of the tail. The croup and rump are stoutly made with
adequate length to favor speed. The tail extends from the back in a continuation of the topline. It may be carried straight or raised slightly.” The Griffon should be well-m uscled, with good bone to effectively worN the field The Rear Assembly 7he standard reads ³7he thighs are long and wellmuscled Angulation in balance with the front. The legs are vertical with the hocNs turning neither in nor out 7he stiÀe and hocN joints are strong and well angulated.” Hocks placed close
together or cow hocks are incorrect. The Griff in Motion
As is with all sporting dogs, movement is paramount. From t he $.& 6tandard ³$lthough close worNing, the *riffon should cover ground in an efficient, tireless manner He is a medium speed dog with perfect coordination be- tween front and rear legs. At a trot, both front and rear legs tend to converge toward the centerline.” Rear drive should be evident by the ability to see the rear pads during a fast trot. The reach of the motion is indicated by the extension of the front legs to the end of the nose. The front and rear legs converging gives that easy-going gait. A Griff in motion should give you the impression of an effortless gait and that he could cover ground all day long.
is considered a serious fault. Undersized is also incorrect and judged accordingly.
This article was approved by the AKC Parent Club, the American Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Association. Written by Lisa Durand, AWPGA Judges Education Mentor/Presenter, Breeder of Merit and Lisa Boyer, DVM, AWPGA AKC Delegate and Breeder of Merit.
292 • S HOW S IGHT M AGAZINE , A UGUST 2017
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