21/12/2020
Illustrated Standard: https://bit.ly/3nGjSIi
Captain Graham and breeders of his time felt the need to write a standard as a blueprint for then current and future breeding practices that would ensure continuity of type. The language they used was common to “stockmen” of the day, and aspects that were considered important, like “hocks low to the ground” were well understood. As we examine the Standard today, keep in mind that we are using Captain Graham’s words. What was left out of the Standard in Graham’s time was assumed to be common knowledge held by contemporary breeders.
The Back:
From the Standard: Rather long than short
What this entails:
In Captain Graham’s words: “body and frame lengthy”
The length of the back is found between the neck and the last ribs. A well-muscled back is desired.
The back includes the cervical, thoracic and lumbar bones along with the sacrum, or croup. Front and rear propulsion is transmitted through the spine. A short, flat or hollow back causes a loss of efficient movement.
A “topline” extends from the crest of the neck to the end of the tail.
From the Standard: Loins arched
What this entails:
The loin, found on both sides of the spine between the last ribs and the hip bone, acts like a spring and should be gently arched, broad and strong to enable the dog to draw his hind legs well under.
In Graham’s words, “ the loin should be a little full, but not so exaggerated as to give the hound the appearance of being dipped behind the shoulder, but just sufficient to give a nice, gradual sweep right down to the set-on of the tail, which should connect fairly well down.” This creates a nice set of curves beginning with the crest of the neck and ending with the bend of the tail.
Illustrated Standard: https://bit.ly/3nGjSIi
