Article
Maria Gkinala
people are becoming aware of scientific facts about health and genetics so there is more open discussion and the educated public is becoming more demanding and discerning. 16. Have breed standards changed very much since you began your judging career? Do you see any difference in Great Dane of today compared to the Great Danes of 10-15 years ago? If so, what are the biggest differences you see? The Great Dane type has changed a lot in some parts of Europe since I first became involved in the breed. The standard has not changed by much but there is a dichotomy of type nowadays between standard Danes and dogs that are verging towards the Neapolitan Mastiff.
» How has the anti cropping anti docking laws throughout most of Europe affected the popularity of the Great Dane ? As the Great Dane is a unique giant breed, the breed fans have managed to cope better with the new situation in comparison to say, Boxer or Dobermann fans.
» What is the greatest threat to the Great Dane today? Ignorance,
bad judging and sloppy breeding. Many newcomers to the breed in some regions are at an age bracket that they have not seen classic dogs and they think that Great Danes are some kind of leggy Neapolitan Mastiffs with droopy eyes and lips to their chests. Bloat, cancer and DCM are the three major killer hereditary defects that have become endemic in the breed.
By making sure dogs are fit for purpose – fit for their original function, sound of body and mind.
» What would be the most important single piece of advice you would give to all serious young breeders? Avoid the pox of the popular sires and learn to apply population genetics to breed healthy dogs. Look far and wide for the best dogs to use and be excruciatingly critical of your own dogs. Learn to listen before you speak and walk before you run. Oh, and “they don’t walk on their heads”.
» Would you like to add something or wish for our readers? Hypertype is a phenomenon that plagues many breeds and threatens their health and soundness. Demand education from your Clubs and don’t be afraid to stand up and be counted in the best interests of dogs. Be their voice. Fight against corruption in our hobby and be the change for the better we want to see in the sport of dogs. Demand transparency and good judging. Celebrate your seniors and you veteran dogs. Lobby and condemn the World Dog Show in China. Best of luck to your wonderful magazine and your readers. Best of luck to all the young talented people in developing countries: keep the dream – you are not alone.
» It’s inevitable that breeds will evolve and change somewhat as new generations of breeders take charge. How can the essence - or true breed type - be maintained?
91 I SSU E 0 8 /2 0 1 6 · T H ED O GM AG A ZIN E
|