The Standard
The Standard is the physical "blueprint" of the breed. It describes the physical appearance and other desired qualities of the breed otherwise known as type. Some characteristics, such as size, coat quality, and movement, are based on the original (or current) function for the dog. Other characteristics are more cosmetic such as eye color; but taken together they set this breed apart from all others. The Standard describes a example of the breed. No individual dog is perfect, but the Standard provides an ideal for the breeder to strive towards. See AKC Standard.
