7. Concrete
descriptions of such things as beauty and type are elusive
because of their subjectivity. It is only logical to interpret
the intent of the standard based on it's content and
construction. The standard utilizes 872 words to describe
physical structure: 411 words (47%) are used to describe multiple
features such as neck, topline, body, forequarters and
hindquarters; 367 words (42%) are used to describe the head
alone; 94 words (11%) describe gait. This statistical breakdown
proves that proportionately the head, as a single feature, is
clearly of primary importance.
8. Although it may be
interesting to consider the historical heritage of various
breeds, there are many cases where it has little or no bearing
in evaluating the modern dog. For instance, consider the
Bulldog, once appreciated for its ferocity in a barbaric
'sport', but now assigned to the Non-Sporting Group and
prohibited from displaying any signs of his heritage in its
modern breed standard. No one would dispute the Doberman
Pinscher's heritage as a guardian dog par excellence, however
the breed's standard requires dismissal from the ring of any
animal displaying an outwardly vicious temperament. These are
just two examples where the origional purpose and temperament of
these breeds is of no value in the show ring. Similarly
obsolete, an ability to hunt boar through the forests of Old
Germany is of no concern to the modern Great Dane fancy.
9. Do not interpret
the above as implying the Great Dane should not be athletic and
structurally sound, but rather to refute any notion that a Great
Dane lacking it's most distinguishing feature (the head), can
ever be competitive or typical!
10. As a
longtime breeder/ owner of the Great Dane, which of the
following features inspired and held your interest?
A) short level back with
broad loin
B) shoulders, strong and
muscular
C) well formed, smoothly
muscled body
D) the unique, long
,distinguished, finely chiseled head
In my view there is only one
clear choice. In case you should require a hint, D is for Dane!
