Breed standard

A Breed Standard is the guideline that describes the ideal characteristics, temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function. Absolute soundness is essential.

Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health, welfare or soundness of this breed.

From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adversely, and judges and breeders are requested to refer to the Kennel Club website for details of any such current issues. If a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure.

1859 – Standard first published by Stonehenge
1883 – Standard was drawn up by O.E.M.C
1890 – A numerical value was given to the points of the mastiff which were printed with the standard until after the Second World War when the system was abolished for all breeds
1949 – All Standards taken over by The Kennel Club were rearranged, and a gait/movement clause was added
1995 – A slight clarification was made

Faults

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog.

Note: Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum.