Dog Terminology
This section explains dog jargon used in Breed Standards and doggie talk by vets and dog breeders. Unless otherwise stated, this section combines use of our own computer graphics some of which are overlain on photos of actual dogs, giving this glossary a new and unique approach.
Some knowledge of the anatomy of a dog is essential for any person who is interested in dogs. This section identifies several anatomical features which are often referred to in doggie jargon and in the Breed Standards. The section also outlines the basic anatomical structure which underlies these features.
The head is the hallmark of the pure breed dog. Without a 'typical' or correct head, a breed is often not uniquely distinct. This section deals with some of the terms pertaining to the head of a dog. It is our hope that an understanding of these terms will assist in appreciating what the breed experts call a typical or beautiful head for its breed.
The mouth (usually called the dog's bite) is the terminology used to ascertain how the teeth in the upper and lower jaws meet when the mouth is closed. Judges usually assess this by looking at the front of the mouth. However, it is also important to look down the sides of the mouth to take into consideration the length of the dog's upper and lower jaws in relation to each another.
Of course a dog's ear consists of all the anatomical structures that faciliate hearing. But for dog judges, breeders and fanciers, the ear leather (also sometimes called the lobe) is of prime importance. The ear leather varies enormously from breed to breed in size, shape, thickness, carriage and mobility. The 'set on' or where the ear is attached to the skull is also important. All these factors tend to be characteristic of individual breeds, and hence have a great influence on both ‘expression’ and breed type.
For the purposes of this discussion, we shall consider the body in profile to be made up of the topline from where the neck ends to where the tail begins and the underline from the chest to the hind legs. This will include discussions on body length and ribcage including its effect on the shoulders and forelegs, the chest itself including the ribcage and sternum, plus the croup and how this affects the tail set.
The gait or movement of dogs is a complex subject as different breeds move in different ways. Some of these gaits are exaggerations from the normal like the Miniature Pinscher with its hackney gait, the Afghan Hound with its style of high order and the Old English Sheepdog with its amble or pace. Additionally some breeds are capable of a double suspension gallop. This section describes some of the different types of movement found in different breeds of dogs.
A dog's coat usually consists of two layers, a hairy outer layer and a dense, soft inner layer. The outer layer or topcoat is weatherproof and is often quite long. For example this Yorkshire Terrier has a long straight coat which is fine, silky and in this case, very glamorous. On the other hand, the undercoat always lies close to the skin somewhat like fur to keep the dog warm. The texture of the topcoat plus the ratio of topcoat to undercoat is what defines a breed’s coat type.