ferox BREED INFO

STCA's Judges' Institute Literature:

Gait must be springy but without roll or pace. This is the only reference to movement that the standard makes, and has become an area that is poorly understood. However since this is a rather "normally" structured moderate dog, it should show "normal" dog movement. In other words, the dog should move like an athlete. At slower speeds his footfalls will tend to be further apart, and as speed increases, his feet will tend to converge toward a centerline under his body. This is the only way the dog could move, as the standard describes, without rolling his body. He should trot, not pace. He should show moderately good reach, and his rear legs should drive him powerfully. His well arched feet, moderate angulation, powerful muscles, and generally good physical condition should provide him with springy gait. All normal dog movement criteria should apply. He should not paddle, toe out, cross, weave, etc, etc. The front and hind feet should strike approximately the same distance apart, leaving tracks in two lines, rather than 3 or 4. The reference to springy gait denotes not only athleticism, but a state of mind. The dog should appear light on his feet, and ready for whatever happens. It should never plod, or move in a listless or dull way.

Physical condition: AmStaffs should be shown in top physical condition. This means well developed and well defined musculature. Their coat should reflect good health, appearing glossy abundant, and in good condition. This dog should be a consummate athlete. Grossly under or overweight dogs do not create the proper picture of the breed. Fat particularly does not improve the dog's outline. There is a tendency to mistake fat for more desirable lean muscling on show dogs. A dog without proper muscle definition will not create the desired balance of strength and agility. However, the dog with the most muscle mass should not be considered to be the best dog. This is not a breed of extremes. The balance between raw strength and agility and grace must always be kept foremost in mind. Good condition or lack of it will also be reflected in the animal's gait and demeanor.

Any deviation from the standard should be considered faulty. Although not specifically mentioned as a fault by the standard, an improper temperament is the most undesirable quality possible, and should never be rewarded. The ideal specimen must always display courage and confidence to a marked degree. Absolutely no consideration should be given to an exhibit that lacks this quality. No consideration should be given to an exhibit that appears aggressive, threatening, or shy towards humans. These are completely incorrect for the breed and inexcusable.

In addition, a dog whose physical characteristics or lack of soundness make him unsuitable according to the general description should not be considered for placement. In general, proper temperament is the most important quality, followed by proper physical structure and the soundness that must accompany it.

Faults such as light eyes, long tails, improper nose color, less favored coat color are considered rather cosmetic in nature and do not interfere with the animal's suitability for work. Although these qualities are the only ones listed under faults, they should not carry as much weight as the proper temperament and structure for the breed, essential qualities that are well described in the standard.