Breed Standard Explained

A breed standard is a detailed description of the ideal characteristics, appearance, and temperament of a specific breed of dog. It serves as a guide for breeders, judges, and owners to evaluate and breed dogs that conform to the standard. It is also what distinguish one breed from another!

A breed standard typically includes details on:

General Appearance: Overall impression of the dog, including size, proportion, and balance.

Head: Shape, size, and features of the head, including the skull, muzzle, eyes, ears, and teeth.

Body: Shape, size, and muscling of the body, including the neck, shoulders, chest, back, and loins.

Legs and Feet: Shape, size, and structure of the legs and feet.

Coat: Type, texture, and color of the coat.

Size: Ideal weight and height ranges for the breed.

Temperament: Desired personality traits, including intelligence, energy level, and behaviour.

The purpose of a breed standard is to:

• Preserve breed characteristics: Ensure that the breed retains its unique features and traits.

• Guide breeding programs: Help breeders select dogs that conform to the standard, promoting the development of healthy, well-structured dogs.

• Evaluate dogs in the show ring: Provide a consistent framework for judges to evaluate dogs and determine which ones best represent the breed.

By understanding and adhering to breed standards, breeders, owners, and judges can work together to preserve the integrity and uniqueness of each breed.

The American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) as a breed in South Africa – The American Dog Breeders Association (ADBA) was established in 1909 in America as a multiple breed association and over time the ADBA focused on the registration of the American Pit Bull Terrier with a recognised breed standard. The first imported APBT’s into South Africa in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s were registered with the ADBA. During these early days the Pit Bull Federation of South Africa (PBFSA) was affiliated to the ADBA and was mentored in the breed standard and behaviour of the APBT, placing the PBFSA on the forefront as breed experts in SA.