THE NON-SPORTING BREEDS AND HAVE THEY CHANGED? BY ARLENE CZECH
used to see fronts that you could drive a truck through! Well, you know what I mean. They are supposed to be wide- spread, but not too far. Also, the bones of the forelegs are curved and they are not supposed to be, just the develop- ment of the calf makes the curve so as to appear bowed. Rears are better now and the wheel-back is coming back so that the elevated loins give us the “roll” so characteristic of the breed. I left the head to the last because generally they are good. I was taught to place the palm of my hand on the front of the skull with my fingers touching the chin as this makes a smooth line. However, I find that the bite is being over-exag- gerated. The lower jaw protrudes way too far for the animal to successfully use his bite. A new Standard issued in 2016 gives more specific information on color and more Disqualifications of col- ors. A side comment here: I have never seen exhibitors of a breed so support- ive of each other. The entries are large, and the competition is high, and they all applaud each winner as it is chosen. This is so delightful to experience. CHINESE SHAR-PEI I find they are really improving the structure especially the topline. They were losing the high set tail and the upturned anus so important to the square profile. In very recent assign- ments I found some improvement there which also improves the movement when the structure is correct. They move at a trot that is well balanced with good reach and drive. I am also missing the hippopotamus nose that is critical to the breed. My only criticism is that some exhibitors have not presented clean dogs to me. When going over the body I find my hands are now dirty. This surprises me since the breed has a problem with keeping the wrinkles’ fungus clear. CHOW CHOW I love the “lion” look as I call it, but very few exhibitors know how to frame the head when a judge approaches.
stare straight into their mouths! I know the Parent Club requested this when they became recognized, but can’t we judges be selective? If the dog is that tall he should be examined on the floor or table. Otherwise the breed seems to be consistent with the standard. The white color is quite consistent and I do not see a lot of biscuit cream which is permissi- ble. They are impeccably groomed and very little tear or pee stain is visible. I see too much of that in other breeds. BICHON FRISE I have noticed little improvement in balance and movement. Sizes are more consistent as the short leg seems to have been bred out. The topline has improved from the roach back to level topline with a slight arch over the loin. Necks are nice and long and the tail car- riage has improved. Overall grooming has been outstanding but sometimes I find the body underneath lacking in substance, no chest or spring of rib. One last point: the beautiful expressive dark halo around the eyes is missing in many. Even so the elegance is returning. BOSTON TERRIER This breed requires an overhaul, but lately I have noticed some improve- ment in the points I will be making. Early on concentration has been direct- ed to the head and the rest of the dog ignored. Now bodies of many are too long or on another the legs are too long which ruins the square profile. Here is another breed with the level topline almost gone. The standard reads that the topline is level and the rump curves slightly to the tail. Well, the curve has moved to the middle of the back and is a roach now, which is a serious fault. Legs are really getting better, but have a long way to go as they are still crossing, both front and rear. All in all the appearance has improved in color placement and they look quite formal again. BULLDOG I have seen consistent improvement in both body and legs over the years. I
M y experience with judging this group has spanned over 37 years. I have noticed many changes, some good and some not so good. I might interject here that I am a Toy Breeder, but was very involved with the Non-Sporting breeds in the Detroit area back in the 60s and 70s. Those that I knew really well were the Bull- dog (Dr. Vardon), Boston Terrier ( Joe Faigel and Ray Person), French Bulldog (The Wests), Poodles ( Jerry Edwards and Todd Patterson), Jerry also had Lhasas, and the Dalmatian (Al & Esme Treen). I learned more from them than just about the breed. I was taught how to judge different dogs and how to be a good sport. I miss their input and their companionship at the shows. There are 21 breeds now. In gen- eral the good changes have been in soundness. The following is what I have observed. I am giving only my opinion. For what it is worth. AMERICAN ESKIMO DOG They came into the group in the 90s and have been quite successful in their breeding programs. I would prefer not to have the 15"-19" size dog examined on the table. As many of you know I am short and I don’t appreciate hav- ing them overwhelm me by making me
S how S ight M agazine , J anuary 2019 • 253
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