Weimaraner Breed Magazine - Showsight

Weimaraner Breed Magazine features information, expert articles, and stunning photos from AKC judges, breeders, and owners..

WEIMARANER

Let’s Talk Breed Education!

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Official Standard for the Weimaraner General Appearance: A medium-sized gray dog, with fine aristocratic features. He should present a picture of grace, speed, stamina, alertness and balance. Above all, the dog's conformation must indicate the ability to work with great speed and endurance in the field. Height: Height at the withers: dogs, 25 to 27 inches; bitches, 23 to 25 inches. One inch over or under the specified height of each sex is allowable but should be penalized. Dogs measuring less than 24 inches or more than 28 inches and bitches measuring less than 22 inches or more than 26 inches shall be disqualified. Head: Moderately long and aristocratic, with moderate stop and slight median line extending back over the forehead. Rather prominent occipital bone and trumpets well set back, beginning at the back of the eye sockets. Measurement from tip of nose to stop equals that from stop to occipital bone. The flews should be straight, delicate at the nostrils. Skin drawn tightly. Neck clean-cut and moderately long. Expression kind, keen and intelligent. Ears -Long and lobular, slightly folded and set high. The ear when drawn snugly alongside the jaw should end approximately 2 inches from the point of the nose. Eyes -In shades of light amber, gray or blue- gray, set well enough apart to indicate good disposition and intelligence. When dilated under excitement the eyes may appear almost black. Teeth-Well set, strong and even; well-developed and proportionate to jaw with correct scissors bite , the upper teeth protruding slightly over the lower teeth but not more than one sixteenth of an inch. Complete dentition is greatly to be desired. Nose-Gray. Lips and Gums-Pinkish flesh shades. Body: The back should be moderate in length, set in a straight line, strong, and should slope slightly from the withers. The chest should be well developed and deep with shoulders well laid back. Ribs well sprung and long. Abdomen firmly held; moderately tucked-up flank. The brisket should extend to the elbow. Coat and Color: Short, smooth and sleek, solid color, in shades of mouse-gray to silver-gray, usually blending to lighter shades on the head and ears. A small white marking on the chest is permitted, but should be penalized on any other portion of the body. White spots resulting from injury should not be penalized. A distinctly long coat is a disqualification. A distinctly blue or black coat is a disqualification. Forelegs: Straight and strong, with the measurement from the elbow to the ground approximately equaling the distance from the elbow to the top of the withers. Hindquarters: Well-angulated stifles and straight hocks. Musculation well developed. Feet: Firm and compact, webbed, toes well arched, pads closed and thick, nails short and gray or amber in color. Dewclaws-Should be removed. Tail: Docked. At maturity it should measure approximately 6 inches with a tendency to be light rather than heavy and should be carried in a manner expressing confidence and sound temperament. A non-docked tail shall be penalized. Gait: The gait should be effortless and should indicate smooth coordination. When seen from the rear, the hind feet should be parallel to the front feet. When viewed from the side, the topline should remain strong and level. Temperament: The temperament should be friendly, fearless, alert and obedient. Faults : Minor Faults -Tail too short or too long. Pink nose. Major Faults -Doggy bitches. Bitchy dogs. Improper muscular condition. Badly affected teeth. More than four teeth missing. Back too long or too short. Faulty coat. Neck too short, thick or

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throaty. Low-set tail. Elbows in or out. Feet east and west. Poor gait. Poor feet. Cowhocks. Faulty backs, either roached or sway. Badly overshot, or undershot bite. Snipy muzzle. Short ears. Very Serious Faults -White, other than a spot on the chest. Eyes other than gray, blue-gray or light amber. Black mottled mouth. Non-docked tail. Dogs exhibiting strong fear, shyness or extreme nervousness. Disqualifications: Deviation in height of more than one inch from standard either way. A distinctly long coat. A distinctly blue or black coat.

Approved December 14, 1971

The New Illustrated Standard of the WEIMARANER The new Illustrated Standard of the Weimaraner is here! A work in progress for the last two years, this short but comprehensive booklet is a synopsis of the full length Weimaraner Breed Standard program current- ly used in Judges’ and Breeders’ Education presentations. The new I.S. was designed primarily as a “take-along” quick reference guide for con- formation judges, but will also be a useful resource for any student of the breed who has an interest in learning about the correct attributes of the Weimaraner. Article by Amy Anderson & Bonnie Lane • Ilustrations by Linda J. Shaw Copyright 2010 Weimaraner Club of America, all rights reserved

The illustrations provided are important tools to assist in visualizing the ideal Weimaraner as described in the official standard. Illustrations have not been used to demonstrate the faults which may occur in our breed. We wish to leave the reader with a clear impression of the correct conformation of

downed large game. What made the Weimaraner unique was its need for human com- panionship and kind han- dling. With the decline of big game along with the introduc- tion of guns to bird hunting, Weimaraner breeders placed more emphasis on pointing instincts. In 1896, Germany recog-

the Weimaraner. Illustrating only the correct, trains the eye to recognize and reward the virtues of our aristo- cratic breed. Selected passages and illustrations included in the new Illustrated Standard follow. The Illustrated Standard opens with a concise description of the origin and purpose of the Weimaraner.

nized the Weimaraner as a breed. Despite opposition from the German breed club, a few individual dogs came to North America in the first part of the 20th cen- tury. The breed was eventually recognized in the United States (1942 ) and Canada. The Weimaraner is now used in Germany on all furred and feathered game. In North America, they are used almost exclusively on birds. The modern Weimaraner has maintained its stamina, hunting versa- tility and need for human bonding”.

“The Weimaraner breed dates back to 13th century art and lit- erature. The Grand Duke of Weimar, for whom the breed is named, is responsible for standardizing the breed to its modern form. The Weimaraner developed into one of the prized continental hunting breeds during the 19th century, excelling with various types of game. They exhibited instinctive hunting abilities such as tracking, search- ing, pointing, retrieving and locating

The current Weimaraner standard was approved and has been in effect since 1971. These earlier standards were writ- ten by fanciers who had knowledge of dogs under working conditions and often omitted details or definitions because

the authors assumed the reader understood basic structural con- cepts. As vague as the standard may appear on initial review, fur-

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varied widely. In general the height- length proportions should convey the impression of pleasing balance that is confirmed by smooth coordination of the front and rear strides.” (Weimaraner Ways) He is slightly longer than tall, The New Illustrated Standard of the WEIMARANER

ther study reveals many aspects not imme- diately apparent. The standard begins: “A medium-sized gray dog, with fine aristocratic features. He should present a picture of grace, speed, stamina, alertness and balance. Above all, the dogs’ conformation must indicate the ability to work with great speed and endurance in the field.”

with a moderately long neck going into well laid back shoul-

“This opening description of the Weimaraner’s gen- eral appearance with its emphasis on functional quali- ties is the key to understanding the standard. Because the Germans emphasized functional ability rather than physical uniformity, there is considerable diversity within the breed” (Weimaraner Ways). Of utmost importance in discussing Weimaraner anatomy is the principle of never losing sight of the whole dog and the idea that no one part is ever more important than the sum of the dog’s parts. “Body” is described as follows: “The back should be moderate in length, set in a straight line, strong, and should slope slightly from the with- ers. The chest should be well developed and deep with shoulders well laid back. Ribs well sprung and long. Abdomen firmly held; moderately tucked-up flank. The brisket should extend to the elbow.” The Weimaraner standard clearly addresses depth of body, “the brisket should extend to the elbow,” and proportion of leg length, “forelegs…from the elbow to the ground approximately equaling the distance from

ders, straight, slightly sloping backline, confident tail carriage and well-angulated rear. His chest should be well developed and deep giving him plenty of lung room. His depth of chest carries well back with a firmly held abdomen and moderately tucked-up flank. The backline should be firm while standing or moving. The Weimaraner’s functional ability afield is rooted in movement. The standard addresses movement as fol- lows: “The gait should be effortless and should indi- cate smooth coordination. When seen from the rear, the hind feet should be parallel to the front feet. When viewed from the side, the topline should remain strong and level”. To ensure that the Weimaraner can endure a day in the field, his gait must be smooth, coordinated and effortless. If his front angulation shaped by well laid back shoulders is correct and the rear angulation with well bent stifles is equal to the front, there should be no wasted motion. If front and rear angulation is not in balance, one end compensates for the other, resulting in inefficient movement. A Weimaraner should easily cover ground with good reach in front and good drive in the rear.

the elbows to the top of the withers.” However, the Standard is vague with

regard to body LENGTH which states only that the “…back is

Restricted movement in any form is incorrect. When viewed on the down and back, the Weimaraner’s legs con- verge toward a center line beneath his body in order to achieve balance; the greater the speed, the closer the legs come to tracking on a

moderate in length.” Again, referring to the German’s emphasis on functionality, rather than physical uniformity, the height-length proportions of the breed, as well as substance, have always

The WCA will make the Illustrated Standard available free of charge to all provisional judges and to all those attending a Judges’ Education seminar. Copies are available for purchase at the WCA National Office, Ellen Dodge, executive Secretary, P.O. box 489, Wakefield, R.I. 02880-0489; wcadodge@cox.net. The content of the Illustrated Standard was researched, compiled and written by the Illustrated Standard Committee; a part- nership of the Judges’ Education and Breeders’ Education Committee Chairpersons: Kelly Photopoulos, Amy Anderson and Bonnie Lane, along with Virginia Alexander. Illustrations by Linda J. Shaw and Lorna Godsill.

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Cheryl Lent, former WCA Judges' Education Chair WEIMARANER Hallmarks of the

B R E E D C H A R A C T E R Weimaraners should present as friendly, fearless, alert and obedient. They were bred in Germany to be a close ranging gun dog on the hunt and the devoted protector of family and hearth at home. Weimaraners are extremely intelligent and aristocratic in nature. Unique to this sporting breed is their ability to hunt and track fur and feather as well as a natural love of water and retrieving. Simply put, a Weimaraner is a pointer and a retriever. Substantial in bone to perform these varied functions, you will see a dog that is supremely confident, with grace and nobility. He is calmly waiting for his next adventure to begin. Weimaraners require your respect and attention and reward you with complete devotion and constant vigilance of your safety and welfare. The devotion these grey dogs share with their owners is legendary. Weimaraners do not adapt well to a kennel environ- ment or separation from their family. They thrive as a fully involved family member. S I L H O U E T T E The Weimaraner’s silhouette is uniquely it’s own. Looking at the make and shape of this breed one should immediately see the stylish outline of an athletic, noble gun dog. Your impression should be of a medium sized* gun dog that could work in the field all day. The height at the withers should be of equal propor- tion from elbows to ground. Slightly longer than tall, the Weimaraner should never give the appearance of a square body or one of excessive length. The Weimaraner has a visible pro ster- num and keel. The scapula is well laid back with equal length and return of upper arm presenting a front set well under the dog. The chest should be deep and blend into a strong smooth body with length coming from the rib cage. The topline is smooth and flowing with a neck blending into a straight slightly sloping back line and tail set on high. A low tail set is a major fault. No rise or sway should be seen in the back line. The under- line should be firmly held by the abdomen, and the tuck up should be moderate. The body blends into a strong and angled rear assembly conveying the impression of strength and driving power. Balance is essential to perform the Weimaraner’s varied tasks as a pointer and a retriever. Substance is a must, but never coarse nor too fine. Grace, speed, stamina, alertness and balance should be apparent immediately. H E A D The Weimaraner head should be aristocratic with parallel planes and moderate stop compared to a Pointer, with a slight median line extending over the forehead. There should be a rather prominent occipital bone with well set back trumpets (temple area in humans) beginning at the back of the eye socket. The eyes are a unique color of blue gray, gray or light amber. They are set well enough apart to indicate intelligence and a good disposition. This presents a pleasing, chiseled aristocratic look. The measurement from the tip of the nose to the stop and

from the stop to the occipital should be equal. A strong under jaw is needed to carry large game. Depth of muzzle should never appear snipey. Straight tight flews, never appearing pendulous, should be delicate at the nostrils. The nose is large with open large nostrils, which serve the Weimaraner well in the field or track. The ears are set on high, the leather is medium and the shape long and lobular with a slight fold. When measured along the muzzle the ear tips are approximately two inches from the point of nose. Ears should never give a houndy appearance. Teeth should be strongly developed with a scissors bite. More than four missing teeth is a major fault. As in all sporting dogs, full dentition is greatly desired. Looking at a Weimaraner, the head should con- vey a kind, keen, alert expression; never harsh or fearful. M O V E M E N T Gait should be smooth, effortless, elastic with no wasted ener- gy or motion. A properly built Weimaraner should exhibit ground covering reach and drive. A Weimaraner on the move should mimic a finely tuned athlete in peak physical condition. The topline should remain straight and level on the “go-round”. Remember, this is an aristocratic gun dog that should be able to work the field all day long. Wasted motion or stilted reach and lack of drive will not portray balance and serve our dogs in the field. One should expect a clean down and back with a natural convergence to the center of gravity as speed increases. When in doubt, judge them on the go around. C O A T The Weimaraner coat can vary from shades of mouse grey to silver grey. It often blends to lighter shades of grey on the head and ears. A small white spot is permitted on the chest. White hairs resulting from injury should not be penalized. Coat should be short and sleek with sheen to indicate good health. A distinct- ly long or a distinctly blue or black coat is a disqualification. *Weimaraners have a DQ for height at either end of the stan- dard, and we encourage judges to measure if there is a question on height. We recognize the phrase “medium size” means differ- ent heights in different Sporting dog standards. The Weimaraner’s height is clearly stated in our standard, and there should be no prejudice at either end of the height range.” Below are outlines of a Weimaraner, German Shorthaired Pointer and Vizsla. WEIMARANER

G S P

V I Z S L A

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WEIMARANER A Breeders’ Perspective 5. Which kennel, domestic or foreign, has given the most to the breed, and how? I think it would be impossible to name just one kennel. Many of our long-time breeders have given their lives to Weimaraners. The mental soundness, the elegance and grace, the health, the dual qualities and the evo- lution of breed type have been an effort that has “taken our village” several lifetimes to achieve. 6. What advancements in structure, health and/or temperament have you seen over the years? Structure: The ‘drag’ of the breed has been hound characteristics. These characteristics have given way to the more elegant, aristocratic look we now hope to see. Our current day Weimaraner should be a beautiful breed. Health: As a breed, yes, I have seen improvement. The health certifications are helping. The CERF, Hips/Elbows, Cardiac, and thyroid clearances have moved us forward. Now if we can find genetic markers for some of the other health problems, we can start to breathe a sigh of relief. Temperament: What a difference we see now than in 1950. I can remember my father taking the Weims to the vet for vac- cinations. The vets didn’t want to have them in the clinic so they’d come out to the truck! My first Weim wouldn’t share air with anyone outside of the immediate family—thankfully, that is a rarity now. Today’s Weimaraners are solid citizens (of course there are the outliers) – therapy dog, service dog, triple champion, Westminster Group winner – we have arrived! 7. What changes would you like to see in your breed? I think I’ll keep that to myself ;-) 8. Who is the foremost authority in your breed? No

DR. DANA MASSEY WIN’WEIM WEIMARANERS 1. Why did you choose your breed and how long have you been involved with your breed? I have had a Weimaraner since 1950 when my father bought me one, so I had a playmate on the ranch instead of the Brahman show cattle. They’d found me in the feed troughs a couple of times playing with the cattle...not the place for a youngster! I have always loved the breed. It is funny how many people will call and say, “I had a Weim when I was a child; and, I want another one.” 2. Where did your breed originate, and what was its main purpose? The Pictorial History of the Weimaraner says that “the original Weimar Pointers appeared in the 19th Century (Germany). They were prized for their versatile hunt- ing skills and remarkable character. In the early part of the century, the Nobles of Weimar were avid sportsmen and hunt- ed a variety of big game. They required of the Weimaraner an exceptional tracking ability, speed, courage and durability. Their breeding programs developed these specific traits and qualities. More likely by accident, they produced the distinc- tive gray coat color that is the hallmark of the breed. During the First Century, the Nobles rigidly controlled the availability of the dogs. To insure the future of the breed, the German Weimaraner Club was formed. Membership was restricted and members only were permitted to own and breed the dogs. Few outsiders really knew much about the breed. Legends developed about the great gray hunting dog. Type and tem- perament were refined and eventually, during the latter half of the 19th Century, the Weimaraner was converted from a bear

doubt about it … our expert and most knowledgeable Weimaraner lover is Viriginia Alexander, Reiteralm Weimaraners. She and Jackie Isabel literally wrote the book –

Weimaraner Ways — everyone who is inter- ested in the breed needs this book. It will soon be out in an updated version – 2010! 9. Who do you feel are excellent judges of your breed? I think the best judges are those who know TYPE. So often the best dog in the ring is the one that looks different from all of the others – but in the RIGHT way. Those judges who find correct physical/men- tal type and soundness with correct bal- ance/proportion are the ones I feel are excel- lent judges. I know we have capable judges out there– but you asked for excellent – these are the ones who continue to study the Weimaraner, who ask questions, who you see ringside with exceptional mentors--even though they’ve judged Weims for years. 10. What is the most common judging mistake in your breed? Besides missing type, I think fault judging and paying too much attention to trivial things like white on the pasterns, tail too short or too long, and

and deer hunter to a ‘fur and feathers’ dog. However, much of the original hunting instincts remain today.” 3. Do you believe the dogs of today could fulfill the purpose for which the breed was developed? Why or why not? Even though the original purpose was a bear/boar/stag hunter, the skill was to find and track game. Weimaraners are excellent tracking dogs with a keen sense of smell and determination when on a scent. I believe a Weimaraner can do just about anything you give it a chance to learn to do. 4. What is the most distinctive physi- cal and mental characteristic of your breed? I love the “almost human” mental characteristic of the breed. The versatility, loyalty, and protectiveness of the Weimaraner are part of that mental bearing. I would say that the most distinctive physical characteristics are the eyes, the coat color, and athleticism.

Am/Can CH. Nani's Win'k of an Eye, VCD1, JH, NRD, VX, BROM, CGC, HOF

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WEIMARANER A Breeders’ Perspective

“black mottled mouth” (which you would only see on a blue Weim which you should have DQ’d for color before you got to the mouth). Many judges ignore an important DQ in our standard. I’d like to see the wicket USED more often. Over and over I see a dog/bitch that even after 61 years with the breed, I couldn’t tell you if it is in or out – yet the judge does not measure the exhibit. Our standard clearly states: Height at the withers: dogs, 25 to 27 inches; bitches, 23 to 25 inches. One inch over or under the specified height of each sex is allowable but should be penalized. Dogs measuring less than 24 inches or more than 28 inches and bitches measuring less than 22 inches or more than 26 inches shall be disqualified. Note that the 1” over and under “should be penalized.” We are “A medium-sized gray dog, with fine aristocratic features. He should present a picture of grace, speed, stamina, alert- ness and balance. Above all, the dog's conformation must indicate the ability to work with great speed and endurance in the field.” Whether a judge is going to “use” the exhibit or not –please measure those exhibits in question. 11. Which dog not bred or owned by you, do you wish you could have owned and why? I’d have to list sev- eral of course! Natl Ch Nani’s Southern Cross BROM HOF “Cross” was a Futurity/Maturity winner and our youngest National Champion at one year old. The most important thing Cross did was he consistently put excellent hips on his puppies and beautiful breed type. Of course, not one of his puppies would “come” but then neither would Cross. He was an outstanding stud dog with something like 100 CHs; and, I must say, a dog I loved to be around. When Cross died, there was never any dog who could fill his corner run at Nani’s - until “Streak” came along, that is! Natl Ch Nani’s Indecent Exposure JH, NAJ, V, BROM. “Streak” –for many reasons he is a favorite, but mainly for the temperaments and bidability he transferred to his puppies. Streak’s sire Natl CH Colsidex Nani Reprint JH BROM HOF “Jack” would have been a great, funny, wonderful dog to have owned and lived with – not only for his ability to stamp breed

type but his comical antics and that of his get as well. Finally, Natl CH Greywind’s Jack Frost BROM HOF , what a beauti- ful, elegant dog. These four dogs are in almost all of my pedi- grees! Two bitches I would have been honored to have been owned by -- CH BIS Nani’s Visa von der Reiteralm BROM HOF –our breed’s youngest BIS dog at 10 months old, plus she was a wonderful producer; and, CH BIS Harline’s Ballet “Ballet”—oh my gosh what a show dog!! I loved the type, the side gait, and the showmanship of these two spectacular bitches…and they both had a ribbon of white on the chest! Enough said! I am, afterall, a bitch person. As an aside, all six of these great dogs were breeder/owner/handled with a huge amount of success. I wish I could have done that – just once! 12. Who do you hope reads this? Oh wow, maybe I don’t want anyone to read it...maybe I’ve been a bit “too hon- est.” Weimaraner judges I guess. We all hear griping about the judging in this breed or that—what is going to make it better? Taking TIME, making an EFFORT, and giving of one’s self to those who want to learn. 13. How do you want to be remembered in the sport of dogs? I’d like to be remembered as: • a kind, considerate, and good judge • a thoughtful, compassionate, and insightful breeder • a loyal friend, and • an asset to the fancy *Bonus — Share some “words of wisdom” to better your breed. My words of wisdom come from 61 years with a breed that means as much to me as my life itself… the Weimaraner. Work with a respected mentor. Listen and learn. Appreciate your handler. Listen and learn. Love your dogs. Listen and learn. In the Fancy, the dogs are the most important ingredient. With your dogs, you’ll have “the good, the bad, and the ugly”— but love them all and treat them all fairly and compassionately. After the dogs, come the people. With the people, you’ll also run into those with ethics and morals that are “the good, the bad, and the ugly”— stay away from the last two. Be one of the good and you can never go wrong.

CH Ashmore's Win'Weim Royal Flush, JH, BROM

BISS CH Win'Weim N Nani Paparazzi

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BY GALE YOUNG

I n judging the Weimaraner, we must remember to seek type , as type is what distinguishes this breed from all others. The outline of the dog, sound movement, and head are of great importance. Our opening statement in the breed standard, “Above all, the dog’s conformation must indicate the ability to work with great speed and endurance in the field’” should be foremost in your mind once you determine that the dog has the correct outline. First, consider the side view from a distance. Is the outline of the dog rectangular? Why rectangular and not square or off-square? Because the back is moderate in length and you also have a well- developed and deep chest in front of those well laid back shoulders. The rather prominent prosternum protrudes beyond the point of shoulder, and there is a wonderful return of upper arm, so the dog stands well over himself with balance, front-to-rear and withers-to- elbow-to-leg (equal lengths). These features give the dog a lovely half-circle from the withers to the prosternum and around to the elbow, which is directly under the withers. This, along with the moderate tuck-up in the flank, in addition to the well sprung and long rib cage , gives the dog its rectangular outline and are the hall- marks of the breed.

As you approach the dog from the front, do so with purpose. Look at the feet (firm, well-arched, thick pads), the chest (good fill to the elbow), oval in shape. Does the dog stand well over him- self (with elbows against the body)? After checking the teeth (FS), move to the side of the dog and, using a gentle but firm hand, examine the remainder of the dog, considering the need for a slightly sloping topline , strong loin (not long), well-angulated stifles, straight hocks with musculature well-developed . Once you place your hand(s) on the dog, let your hand(s) move continuously over the back, chest, loin, tail set, and rear, and only remove your hand(s) when done with the entire exam, including checking the testicles. I find the top-view (coming down the line from behind) to be very helpful in sorting out a line-up of very good dogs. If you

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JUDGING THE WEIMARANER

wish to check something on the dog, turn and approach him from the front rather than laying your hand from behind when he is not aware that you are approaching. This view is frequently over- looked, but it tells all! As you walk down the line from the rear to the front, you can see if the neck is of sufficient length to balance with the body, if the shoulders lay back and lie down so that there is a smooth transition from the neck to the body, and if there is sufficient length and spring of ribcage (not slab-sided, not barrel- chested). Is there a waist at the loin (but not so much as to be wasp- waisted)? Are there well-developed first and second thighs? And is there a good butt, with tail as an extension of the spine—preferably carried at one o’clock? Finally, turn and look at the line-up from the front to have a final look at the heads, moderately long and aristocratic . The planes should be parallel, equal length of muzzle and skull, good chisel- ing, and although the muzzle tapers on the sides, it should have a squared-off finish to accommodate the large nostrils and well- developed teeth. The eyes are lighter than with most breeds. Occa- sionally they remain blue, but most of the time, adults have amber or blue-gray eyes. Eye shape is not defined in the standard, but con- sider two points: 1.) A round eye, and little to no brow expression along with a light eye, will give you a very stark look. 2.) A light but oval eye with a soft brow presents with a softer expression and still has the intensity of a pointing breed rather than a spaniel. Con- sider the desire for aristocratic features . This comes from the smooth body with no bumps and dips as well as from the regal expression. Of course, the dog then needs to move as it stands, indicating the ability to work with great speed and endurance. As the dog moves around the ring, remember that most of the Major Faults listed in the Weimaraner breed standard bring you to the conclu- sion that a sound dog is of great importance, both coming and going as well as in side-gait. Considering the Very Serious Faults: A gray dog is a dilute color and cannot have a black mottled mouth. It could have a gray mottled mouth and this is ok. If the dog has a black nose, you would be excusing it for a color not allowed, and if the coat was black or blue, the dog would be disqualified. I surmise they left this in to remind you that a purebred Weima- raner cannot have black. The Weimaraner is a single-coated dog. Their un-docked tail is very long, like a whip. This long tail has no protection from the brush and trees that it hits while hunting.

It can become very damaged. Docking the tail is a preventative measure. The United States is the only country that does not accept the longhaired variety. I have judged longhairs in other countries. Personally, I feel they do not retain the same aristocratic features that we look for in the United States. To my knowledge, our Wei- maraner Standard is the only one that asks for aristocratic features. Within every breed there will be differences in style from ken- nel to kennel. We do not pursue style , but if used within the con- fines of the breed standard to produce better dogs, it allows for latitude in the expression of qualities that make-up type . In the Weimaraner, these qualities are: 1. Rectangular Outline; 2. Prominent and Deep Forechest (Balanced with the Rest of the Body), Including a Well Laid Back Shoulder and Match- ing Return of Upper Arm; 3. Neck, Clean-Cut and Moderately Long; 4. Ability to Work with Great Speed and Endurance in the Field. Weimaraners were developed from the St. Hubert Hound. Remember that hound characteristics are the “drag of the breed” —level underline, ears too long, bone too heavy, excessive skirting in the loin area, thick tail, tan markings as in a black and tan dog, and pendulous flews.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Gale Young, Starhaven (formerly Starwood Kennel Reg’d.), has been breeding and showing Futurity/ Maturity-winning and nationally-ranked Weimaraners for over 48 years. She has been judging for over 24 years in the US and internationally. A former member of the PHA and CPH, Gale currently judges the Sporting Group, Terrier Group, half the Toy Group, and Best in Show. She is a member of the WCA Judges’ Education Committee. Gale has a Master’s Degree in Music and is a voice teacher. Gale is a member of the Weimaraner Club of America and has been Chairman and Secretary for the WCA Eastern Field Classic. She was Secretary as well as President of the Yankee Weimaraner Club. For 15 years, she cared for and placed the Rescue Dogs for the Yankee Club. She was Chairperson for the YWC Specialty for many years. Gale is also a member of several other breed clubs, including Yankee Toy Dog Club, Ladies’ Dog Club, Manatee KC, New England Sporting Group Association, Norfolk Terrier Club, and the Venice DC. Gale’s first dog, a Weimaraner, achieved a Breed Championship, a CDX Title, and two Field Ratings, giving her the title of Versatility Excellent by the National Club. With only two litters to her credit, she also

became a BROM Dam. In 2015, her Top Ten male, GCHP CH Starwood’s Reinhard V Dietz CGC TKN, was BOS at the Weimaraner National Specialty under a breeder-judge. This multiple BIS winning dog was Select Dog at the 2016 National Specialty, BOB at the 2017 Westminster KC Dog Show and at the 2017 AKC National Championship Show, as well as Top Twenty Winner at the 2018 Weimaraner Club of America National Specialty, and Number One Breed and All-Breed Weimaraner in 2018. Satisfied that this would be the culmination of her breeding program, Gale was most pleased that this year, three individual dogs that she bred went Select Dog, Select Bitch, and Owner-Handler BOB at the 2021 Weimaraner Club of America National Specialty. After all, what good is a great breeding program if you do not pass it on to others who will run with it?

330 | SHOWSIGHT MAGAZINE, NOVEMBER 2021

JUDGING THE WEIMARANER by JUDY COLAN

J udges have the future of any breed in their hands when they judge. Having said that I will add that, in my opinion, as a breeder with a limited breeding program, who has pro- duced the two All Time Top Winners in the breed and the All Time Top Producer and a Breeder Judge I have been sorely disappoint- ed in the quality of judging in the past few years. 25 years ago if you gave me a list of 10 judges and asked me who I thought was a good judge I would say 9 out of 10 were good judges. Today, my response would be much di ff erent. What is the di ff erence? Again, in my opinion, it is that many judges do not know breed type. I look out into a ring of 8 dogs, 1 or 2 have breed type and the rest are generic. Not bad dogs, but they lack breed type. Th e 2 that have breed type look di ff erent from the generic dogs and are often times ignored. I am hoping that this article will encourage judges to understand breed type in the Weimaraner. BREED TYPE I think the easiest way to establish breed type in your mind is to view silhouettes of Weimaraners and Vizslas, two VERY dif- ferent breeds. FRONT ASSEMBLY Th e Weimaraner has a deep forechest... Although both standards call for the chest to the elbow, the Weimaraner stan- dard calls for a well angulated front end assembly as opposed to the Vizsla standard which calls for a moderately laid back front assembly. Th is gives the Vizsla a straighter Again the Weimaraner standard states well angulated while the Vizsla standard reiterates moderate angulation. TOPLINE Th ere is a significant di ff erence in the toplines. Th e Weimaraner “set in a straight line sloping slightly from the withers”. Th e Vizsla “slightly rounded over the loin”. front and less forechest. REAR ASSEMBLY

and balance. Above all, the dog’s conforma- tion must indicate the ability to work with great speed and endurance in the field. HEIGHT Height at the withers: dogs, 25-27 inch- es; bitches, 23-25 inches. One inch over or under the specified height of each sex is allowable, but should be penalized. Dogs measuring less than 24 inches or more than 28 inches and bitches measuring less than 22 inches or more than 26 inches shall be disqualified. Interpretation: A Weimaraner should convey the impression of grace and style, a dog who can work in the field all day. He should be of medium size, not too coarse, nor too fine as a coarse heavy boned dog or a fine boned weedy dog could not endure a day in the field. Medium size with regard to height needs no explanation as it is clearly defined with a disqualification for those who deviate from this size. HEAD Moderately long and aristocratic, with moderate stop and slight median line extending back over the forehead. Rather prominent occipital bone and trumpets well set back, beginning at the back of the eye sockets. Measurement from tip of nose to stop equals that from stop to occipital bone. Th e flews should be straight, deli- cate at the nostrils. Skin drawn tightly. Neck clean-cut and moderately long. Expression kind, keen and intelligent. Ears Long and lobular, slightly folded and set high. Th e ear when drawn snugly along- side the jaw should end approximately 2 inches from the point of the nose. Eyes: In shades of light amber, gray or blue-gray, set well enough apart to indicate good dis- position and intelligence. When dilated under excitement, the eyes may appear

Now that you have type set in your mind, it is time to think about movement. I won’t bore you with the down and back which should be sound. Th e Weimaraner should have an e ff ortless, ground covering movement. No wasted motion, it should be smooth and e ff ortless. Balance is of the utmost importance. Front and rear angulation should match. Problems in the breed: Straight fronts, lack of balance front and rear, lack of forechest. Too short backed, low tail sets, snipey muz- zles, lack of underjaw. Lack of rear and drive. Following is my interpretation of the Standard: Th e Standard of any breed is a specification or blueprint for that breed. Th e writers of the Standards were interested primarily in working ability and they wrote the Standard to describe the ideal tempera- ment and conformation needed to perform the purpose for which the dog was bred. Anyone who is going to own, breed or judge any breed should be familiar with the dogs purpose and what conformation characteristics enable the dog to perform, with ease, the tasks for which he was bred. An excellent reference is K-9 Structure and Terminology by Gilbert and Brown. Th e book is a study in anatomy and locomotion as applying to all breeds and explains the working parts beneath the surface with the mechanical laws governing them. When interpreting the Weimaraner Stan- dard, it is important to know that the Wei- maraner is both a pointing dog and a retriev- ing dog. When we have the background knowledge of anatomy and the Weimaraners purpose, reading the Standard gives a clear picture of what the dog should look like. GENERAL APPEARANCE A medium-sized gray dog with fine aristocratic features. He should present a picture of grace, speed, stamina, alertness

Vizsla Dog

Vizsla Bitch

Weimaraner Dog

Weimaraner Bitch

202 • S HOW S IGHT M AGAZINE , M ARCH 2015

almost black. Teeth: Well set, strong and even; well developed and proportionate to jaw with correct scissors bite, the upper teeth protruding slightly over the lower teeth but not more than  /  of an inch. Complete den- tition is greatly to be desired. Nose: Gray. Lips and Gums: pinkish flesh shades. Interpretation: To complete the picture of grace and nobility, the head should be pleasing with a kind, intelligent expression. Th e head is similar to a Pointer head with the exception of the stop, which should be moderate as opposed to the pronounced stop of the Pointer and the ear set, which should be high rather than at eye level as in the Pointer. Th e trumpets, which are com- parable to temples in man, give the head a chiseled appearance. Th e flews should be straight, not pendulous and taper to the nostril. Th ey should not give the appear- ance of being snippy. Again the key word is aristocratic. Although it is not mentioned in the standard, any good bird dog needs large nostrils to better enable him to scent birds. BODY Th e back should be moderate in length, set in a straight line, strong and should slope slightly from the withers. Th e chest should be well developed and deep with shoulders well laid back, ribs well sprung and long. Abdomen firmly held; moder- ately tucked-up flank. Th e brisket should extend to the elbow. Interpretation: A Weimaraner should not be short-backed; he should have a long rib cage with well sprung ribs, not slab-sided. Th e long rib cage gives the back its moder- ate length. Th e back should be straight (no rise over the loin, no sway) and should slope slightly from the withers to the tail, which is high set, a low set tail being a major fault.. Th e chest when viewed from front and side should be well developed and deep as this is what gives the dog lung room when he is running in the field. Th e well sprung ribs and deep chest also enable the dog to perform his duties as a retriever. Th e shoulder assembly is comprised of the scapula and humerus. Th e shoulder blade should mold smoothly into the contour of the body and be well laid back. Th e scapula and humerus should be of equal length. When viewed from the side, the dog should have a well laid back shoulder blade and equally angulated humerus (upper arm); this sets the elbow directly under the tip of the top of the shoulder blade and well under the dog. Th e forelegs should not come straight o ff the front. Elbows should lie close to the body. Th is correct front-end assembly is important to a dog who must run in the

field, as it is the shoulder assembly and pas- tern that absorbs most of the shock when a dog is moving. Well laid back angles of the shoulder assembly give the dog the ability to reach and cover more ground with less e ff ort. COAT AND COLOR Short, smooth and sleek, solid color, in shades of mouse-gray to silver-gray, usu- ally blending to lighter shades on the head and ears. A small white marking on the chest is permitted but should be penalized on any other portion of the body. White spots resulting from injury should not be penalized. A distinctly long coat is a dis- qualification. A distinctly blue or black coat is a disqualification. LEGS Forelegs: Straight and strong, with mea- surement from the elbow to the ground approximately equaling the distance from the elbow to the top of the withers. Hindquarters: Well-angulated stifles and straight hocks. Musculation well devel- oped. Feet: Firm and compact, webbed, toes well arched, pads closed and thick, nails short and gray or amber in color. Dewclaws: Should be removed. Interpretation: Th e lighter shades on the head and ears are referred to as the “Grafmar Cap” and tend to become more prominent with age. Th e white mark on the chest may be in the form of a spot or a blaze and should be small. When evaluat- ing length of leg it is important to remem- ber that the dog is also a retriever. Th e dis- tance from elbow to the ground and elbow to the withers should be almost equal. TAIL Docked. At maturity it should measure approximately 6 inches with a tendency to be light rather than heavy and should be carried in a manner expressing confidence and sound temperament. A non-docked tail should be penalized. Interpretation: As mentioned previous- ly, the tail set should be high, a low-set tail being a major fault. It should be carried up or straight out when the dog is in motion, expressing confidence. GAIT Th e gait should be e ff ortless and should indicated smooth coordination. When seen from the rear, the hind feet should be parallel to the front feet. When viewed from the side, the topline should remain strong and level. Interpretation : Again, to insure that the Weimaraner can endure a day in the field,

his gait should be coordinated and e ff ortless. If his front angulation is correct and his rear angulation is equal to the front, there should be no wasted motion. Padding, restricted movement, or fast, choppy move- ment is incorrect. A Weimaraner should cover ground with reach in front and drive in rear and this movement should be e ff ortless and coordinated. If shoul- der angulation is correct, the back should remain level in movement without excess rise and fall of the withers. Th is indicates that the dog is put together correctly and is not putting undue stress on the shock absorbing mechanism, the shoulders. TEMPERAMENT Th e temperament should be friendly, fearless, alert and obedient. FAULTS Minor: Tail too short or too long. Pink nose. Major: Doggy bitches, Bitchy dogs, Improper muscular condition. Badly a ff ected teeth. More than 4 teeth missing. Back too long or too short. Faulty coat. Neck too short, thick or throaty. Low set tail. Elbows in or out. Feet east and west. Badly overshot or undershot bite. Snippy muzzle, Short ears. Very Serious: White, other than a spot on the chest. Eyes, other than gray, blue- gray or light amber. Black mottled mouth. Non-docked tail. Dogs exhibition strong fear, shyness and extreme nervousness. DISQUALIFICATIONS Deviation in height of more than one inch from the Standard either way. A distinctly long coat. A distinctly blue or black coat. REMARKS It is impossible for a gray Weimaraner to have a black mottled mouth. Weima- raner color is a dilution and therefore it is impossible for a dilute dog to have black markings. Our local club holds Hunting Tests, WCA Rating Tests and Field Training Seminars. It is always amazing to me to see dogs who have never been exposed to birds go out in the field and hunt, point and retrieve. You can actually see the point at which their brain clicks on and they start hunting. If nature has seen fit to main- tain the natural instincts of bird finding and retrieving ability, we as breeders and judges should strive to produce and reward a dog whose structure and temperament enable that dog to perform these duties.

S HOW S IGHT M AGAZINE , M ARCH 2015 • 203

JUDGING THE WEIMARANER By Judy Colan, Colsidex Weimaraners W eimaraners area breed that has been near and dear to my heart for over 45 years. I have been for-

and the depth of chest rising up to the well angulated rear. Th e overall impression should be a dog slightly longer than tall with the length of body coming from the length of rib with a short loin. Balance is of utmost importance, well angulated front showing good shoulder lay back with length and return of upper arm set under the shoulder to match the well angulated rear. A long arched neck which fi ts smoothly into the shoulder. Tail set right o ff the back. All should fl ow together to give a picture of style and balance. Since the Weimaraner is well angulated, the proper front angulation is what give the breed the obvious forechest. Th e other important part of breed type is movement. It should be e ff ortless, no wasted motion, not choppy and should be ground covering smooth and coordinated. Th e down and back should be sound. Ask yourself, if I saw a black and white silhouette of this dog would I know it was a Weimaraner. Do not reward mediocrity or a generic dog. Reward the dog with breed type. Th e problems we see in the breed are; straight shoulders that don’t match angulated rears, forward set on shoulders, low tail sets, lack of rear drive and choppy movement. I have included the Weimaraner Stan- dard with my interpretations. Also includ- ed are some photos of dogs and bitches which show excellent breed type. Th e Standard of any breed is a speci fi ca- tion or blueprint for that breed. Th e writers of the Standards were interested primarily in working ability and they wrote the Stan- dard to describe the ideal temperament and conformation needed to perform the purpose for which the dog was bred. Anyone who is going to own, breed or judge any breed should be familiar with the dogs purpose and what conformation characteristics enable the dog to perform, with ease, the tasks for which he was bred. An excellent reference is K-9 Structure and The Weimaraner Standard Interpretations by Judy Colan

tunate to have bred and owned our breeds All Time Top Producing Bench Register of Merit sire, Ch Colsidex Standing Ovation. Th e Bench Register of Merit is based not only on number of champions but what those champions have accomplished. Ova- tion sired 148 champions and has held the title of #1 BROM sire for close to 25 years. I have also owned the two All Time Top Winning Weimaraners; Ch Colsi- dex Seabreeze Perfect Fit with 33 Best in Shows and Ch Aria’s Allegra of Colsidex with 27 Best In Shows. When I fi rst became involved in the breed I thought the dog I owned was a perfect example of the Standard. One year and six points later and after sitting ring- side and watching the breed I realized that my perfect dog was not perfect. I acquired my foundation bitch from a breeder whose dogs I admired. I spent many nights sitting and talking with experienced breeders and learned some very valuable lessons. To this day I look at my dogs with a critical eye, know what is right with them and know where they need improvement. I believe this is the reason my very limited breeding program has been so successful. I think judges have to realize that the dogs in their ring belong to old timers and newcomers. Lifestyles have changed and I don’t see the newcomers sitting around watching and talking to experienced breeders. So the future of the breed is in the judges hands. Th e most important part of judging is to know breed type. What is correct breed type in a Weimaraner? It is the combination of the silhouette and the e ff ortless, ground covering movement. To get the picture in your mind of breed type train your eye to see the horizontal “wedge” in the dog’s body. Th e straight, gently sloping top line

Terminology by Gilbert and Brown. Th e book is a study in anatomy and locomotion as applying to all breeds and explains the working parts beneath the surface with the mechanical laws governing them. When interpreting the Weimaraner Standard, it is important to know that the Weimaraner is both a pointing dog and a retrieving dog. When we have the back- ground knowledge of anatomy and the Weimaraners purpose, reading the Stan- dard gives a clear picture of what the dog should look like. General Appearance: A medium sized gray dog with fi ne aristocratic features. He should present a picture of grace, speed, stamina, alertness and balance. Above all, the dog’s conformation must indicate the ability to work with great speed and endur- ance in the fi eld. Height at the withers: Dogs, 25-27 inches; bitches 23-25 inches. One inch over or under the speci fi ed height of each sex is allowable but should be penalized.

Continued on pg. 242

S HOW S IGHT M AGAZINE , F EBRUARY 2014 • 235

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