FCI / SV Standard No. 166 – 23.12.2010
The topline runs from a high wither at the base of the neck, over a straight back (thoracic and lumbar spine), sloping slightly and continuously—without any visual interruption—toward the croup.
Developmental changes in purebred dogs are not a natural occurrence. They are created by a very small number of highly influential individuals who select, promote, and multiply their own dogs—or those of others—through close line breeding (1–2, 2–2, 2–3).
They work toward whatever traits or styles they desire. In selecting dogs for a specific trait, they often focus on characteristics that are genetically linked.
These linked traits may be less desirable and can come together with unwanted characteristics. However, they are often accepted—usually by an influential and SV-approved individual—as “collateral damage.” In other words, they are considered a small price to pay in order to establish the desired primary trait.
Because of genetic linkage, the result alongside the primary desired trait may be the promotion of undesirable characteristics. You cannot have one without the other, so sometimes the undesirable characteristic is downgraded into an acceptable one—or even actively encouraged.
This is applicable to the contemporary show-line German Shepherd Dog.
When asked why the dog has a curved spine, or why the SV specifically supports dogs with a downward-sloping, hunched topline—despite the fact that the standard clearly and for good reason opposes this—there is no complete or correct answer.
Because there is no real advantage, the typical responses are vague and nonsensical, such as:
“This is a good thing,”
“It’s better for movement,”
“It’s stronger than a straight back,” and similar claims.
However, because the “breeding authorities” who initiated this process are extremely influential individuals, dogs possessing these “preferred traits” win consistently at dog shows without losing.
Ironically, the genetic frequency of both good and bad traits increases until they become the norm, and the breed evolves accordingly. A trait that damages the breed—such as a roached or hunched back—can become a desired feature, while the standard’s straight back becomes less desirable than a curved one.
Once a characteristic is established and becomes the norm, dogs with these traits and bloodlines achieve success in the show ring. Even if a curved spine is a poor trait, the influence of authorized breed authorities and the subsequent granting of breeding titles make it extremely difficult to eliminate this deviation—particularly in male dogs.
If it is to be eliminated, the breeder must be prepared for a long, difficult, highly idealistic, and often very lonely journey.
Source:
Louis Donald
SV International Judge (Retired)
GSDCA Breed Surveyor
WUSV Continental Director
