A lady with two young Mastiffs, c. 1930.
A young Mastiff breeder/owner/handler, Damara Bolte and her young pup.
“JUDGING THE MASTIFF SHOULD AN ENJOYABLE EXPERIENCE.”
reach. In motion the legs move straight forward as the dog’s speed increases from a walk to a trot, the feet move in toward the center line of the body to maintain balance. When judging temperament, there should be a combination of grandeur,
good nature, courage and docility. Dig- nity, rather than gaiety, is the Mastiff’s correct demeanor. Judges may find a Mastiff to be rather aloof but should not condone shyness or viciousness. Con- versely, judges should also be aware of putting a premium on showiness.
The Mastiff is not typically a “showy breed.” Please do not penalize a dog for his/her reticent attitude. As long as the dog tolerates an examination, it is an acceptable attitude. There are three col- ors (fawn/apricot/brindle), all judged equally with no preference for color. There are three easy landmarks to look for when judging the Mastiff such as: (1) a prominent sternum; (2) when in a stack the elbow should be directly under the withers denoting the dog has sufficient layback exhibiting a prominent pro-sternum; (3) plum-line dropped from the ischium (furthest most point of the hindquarters) will pass directly in front of the foot. Judging the Mastiff should an enjoy- able experience. However, bring your spit towel and be prepared to put up with those of us that love and show our own beautiful dogs without benefit of being shown to their fullest potential. The Mastiff Club of America is always eager to answer your questions. Please visit our website at mastiff.org. Infor- mation submitted has come directly from the Mastiff history and standard judge’s presentations.
Hellingly Kennels, c. 1935.
250 • S how S ight M agazine , M ay 2017
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