as the 'powerhouse' is in the muscle bulk attached to the skull
and boning under the eyes. The correct skull to muzzle ratio is
3:2
Areas of concern in the body are many and usually become obvi-
ous when the dog is on the move. Overly long backs will reduce
agility when turning. The correct length to height ratio is 10:9.
(measured from the pro-sternum to behind the buttocks, com-
pared to the height at the whither. eg. a dog that is 18 inches
high should be 20 inches long. This represents only 10% extra
length which is almost negligible.
Poor angulation is the most apparent and serious problem that
presents itself in today's population. Straight stifles will limit
drive and together with poor slope of shoulder give a stilted gait.
Both these FAULTS reduce ground coverage. It must be noted that
the standard clearly calls for well-turned NOT moderate angula-
tion of the stifle joint and well-laid shoulders. That is. not less
that 90 degree angles between the bones.
Narrow chests with lack of pro-sternum (breastbone) develop-
ment limit the area available for lung expansion and heart capac-
ity. Narrow hindquarters reduce turning ability when the dog is
pivoting on its hindquarters. Both faults limit endurance and
should be discouraged.
The standard calls for a level topline. Some have misinterpreted
this to mean a 'table-top'. The result has been an obvious reduc-
tion in the length and slope of croup and a consequent high tail-
set. The correct topline should be straight and firm, with a very
slight rise over the loin area to allow for flexibility of the back.
Together with a correct sloping croup the dog is better able to
maneuver its hindquarters under its body.
One increasing problem is the number of dogs that appear 'high
in rump'. A topline sloping from loin to whither is incorrect and
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