The Endless Debate Over Type vs. Soundness

By: Michelle Scott

The debates over type vs soundness are endless. Recently I was twice “accused” of wanting a sound dog during my judging so I decided to pencil down my thoughts on the subject.

Do I want or expect dogs to be good on their feet? Definitely! But they must look like their breed as well. For me, a “sound dog” shouldn’t be an oxymoron, it should be a given. If a dog has difficulty navigating around a dog show ring does it really fit into any breed standard? Every breed standard calls for a sound dog so if you actually have to ask if a judge thinks it’s important then maybe you should be asking yourself why you think it isn’t important?

You may think it’s okay to show an unsound dog but it’s heart breaking to watch a middle aged dog struggle to get around – they seldom live to a ripe old age because of it. It’s called quality of life.

How did we get ourselves into this position where there is actually a separation between type and soundness?!? I find it astounding. When did the rift open up that breeders, exhibitors and judges decided that it was okay if a dog with exquisite head detail couldn’t walk? How did that become okay with anyone? What happened to form for function? If you just want something that’s beautiful to look at then get a painting or sculpture of your favourite dog but you are doing an injustice to your breed and the sport if you continue to exhibit dogs that can’t walk. Dogs can be beautiful and sound – actually, let me rephrase that….Dogs should be beautiful and sound. I want it all.

 

Posted by showresults on Apr 16 2022. Filed under Current Articles, Featured. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.