(Prior to her passing in 2017, Anne Legge gave permission to the American Bloodhound Club to include this article as part of the club’s Judges Education materials.)

This discussion was prompted by a Sweepstakes judge’s request for comments on the strengths and weaknesses of the breed. Serious Problems concern structure, function, and the hallmark head. Less Serious Problems and Minor Faults focus on aspects of breed type. There are NO disqualifications in the Bloodhound Standard. Judges should consider the ideal and penalize departures to the extent of deviation.

Serious Problems

Lack of Athleticism. Bloodhounds must have the stamina to follow a rugged trail for miles under all sorts of conditions. They need a deep keel, well-sprung ribs, and a firm topline. They need bone and substance, strength, muscle, balanced angulation, and well-knuckled-up feet. They are built for endurance, not to race showily around a ring.

Faulty Front Assembly. The long neck must flow smoothly into muscular shoulders that are well-laid back, with sufficient prosternum and a deep keel. All these go together and are of utmost importance to the working hound.

Lack of Strong, Deep Loin. The mature body should be deep throughout its length, with little or no tuck-up; built for stamina not speed.

Incorrect Head. The Standard is quite specific about the head, which is both functional and a hallmark of the breed. It should be long in proportion to the body; narrow in proportion to length; 12 inches long in dogs, 11 inches in bitches; muzzle at least as long as backskull; having the appearance of being flattened at the sides and nearly equal in width throughout its length; long, low-set, thin ears; square lip; large, open nostrils; nearly parallel head planes; and prominent occipital peak.

Less Serious Problems

Too Large. Like many other breeds, Bloodhounds are getting larger. The Standard says the greater heights and weights are to be preferred provided that quality and proportion are also combined. However, the top figures mentioned are 27 inches and 110 pounds for dogs; and 25 inches and 90 pounds for bitches. They must be able to do their work, and sometimes that means being helped over a fence.

Incorrect Silhouette. The Bloodhound should not be square. “Stands over more ground” means rectangular or off-square.

Too Much or Too Little Skin. Bloodhounds need the pendulous ears and superabundant skin on their head and neck to stir up scent particles and protect their eyes. Excessive skin elsewhere, draping in folds on the thighs and over the base of the tail, is an invitation to bacteria and yeast. Penalize a bad-smelling hound.

Faulty Bite. Although the bite is not important to the working function, the Standard is specific: scissors bite preferred, level bite accepted. Check the incisors and penalize undershot and overshot bites as well as dirty or unhealthy teeth.

Bold or Unhealthy Eyes. Bloodhound eyes seem to puzzle judges. The eyes are deeply sunk. Because of the loose skin, the eyelids assume a diamond or lozenge shape, and a pink haw is often visible. A round eye causes an uncharacteristic bold expression. Do not fault somewhat loose eyelids unless the eye appears weepy
or unhealthy.

Minor Faults

Consider these aspects, but remember, there are no disqualifications.

Excessive White. The Standard permits a small amount of white on the chest, feet, and tip of stern. Judges must determine what is a “small amount” and consider the relation of white markings to function.

Incorrect Stern Set and Carriage. A stern that is down or carried too gaily is a barometer of mood and an aspect of breed type, not function. Consider the whole hound. However, if something really bothers you, you may decide to fault it.

Not Addressed by the Standard: Length of leg in relation to height; prosternum; coat length, texture, and waviness; nose color.

Strengths

Temperament is likely to be good in today’s Bloodhounds, “neither quarrelsome with companions nor with other dogs.” The Standard says, “somewhat shy,” but “reserved” would be a more accurate descriptor. The late Douglas Appleton (UK) said that “shy” means “the hound is sufficient unto himself unless he knows you.” Approach tactfully, not tentatively, speak to them and let them smell your hand.

When you see a good Bloodhound, you will know it because of the hallmark head, affable demeanor, substance, balance, athleticism, and coordination.

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There are several references to size in the Bloodhound Breed Standard that have created confusion for some judges:

• “He is very powerful, and stands over more ground than is usual with hounds of other breeds.”
• “The mean average height of adult dogs is 26 inches, and of adult bitches 24 inches. Dogs usually vary from 25 to 27 inches, and bitches from 23 to 25 inches; but, in either case, the greater height is to be preferred, provided that character and quality are also combined.”
• “The mean average weight of adult dogs, in fair condition, is 90 pounds, and of adult bitches 80 pounds. Dogs attain the weight of 110 pounds, bitches 100 pounds. The greater weights are to be preferred, provided (as in the case of height) that quality and proportion are also combined.”

Some things to keep in mind:

• The Standard originated in England. The scenthounds there were essentially Beagles, Harriers, and English Foxhounds. The largest of these, the English Foxhound, might be as tall as 24″ in a mature male. So, a 26″ male Bloodhound, proportioned the same as an English Foxhound, will definitely take up more space. “Stands over more ground” does not infer that the breed is LONG, just longer than the other scenthounds in England at the time. Excessive length in the loin will interfere with the transfer of power from the rear drive and will be tiring over a long trail.
• The references to greater heights or greater weights being preferred refer only to the ranges mentioned. This does not mean that bigger is better, only that within the size range the larger end of that range is preferred as long as the other desired Bloodhound qualities exist in the larger individual.
• Large, clunky dogs that border on Mastiff substance will NOT easily be able to perform the original function of the Bloodhound. Carrying too much size is extremely tiring after 5-10 miles, and endurance will suffer.
• The weights listed were from over 100 years ago, back when nutrition was iffy at best. Bone and substance have definitely improved since then. Today, a 26-inch male that weighs only 110 pounds will appear and feel extremely underweight or lacking in substance, and one that is only 90 pounds will seem skeletal or puny. A 26-inch male will more likely have a healthy weight of about 125 pounds or so.
• There is nothing in the Breed Standard explaining proportion, sadly, so think of the proportions of an English Foxhound: not square, slightly longer than tall, bordering on rectangular. Length should be in the ribcage.
• There is really no such thing as a “mean average” measurement, so ignore that term.

Judges should try to reward Bloodhounds that are not racy or overly long, nor reward those that have so much substance that they have lost the appearance of athleticism. Try to find that midpoint where possible, keeping in mind the function of a good Bloodhound: mantrailing.

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I have a couple passions! One is Bloodhounds. Other things are Education, and Juniors, and overall, the Sport of Dogs! Please indulge me here as I share my Thoughts on Bloodhounds!

For the Bloodhound, a low entry and often misunderstood breed, to survive and thrive, EDUCATION IS CRITICAL! But we cannot educate those with closed minds or those who come to the breed or sport thinking they already know it all. And, in a breed where 95 percent of the puppies registered are produced outside the national breed club membership (most likely not to the Breed Standard), this can have a scary impact on the breed going forward!

Marlene’s Bloodhound Breed Goal #1: Find ways to get more people who have Bloodhounds to join the fold and share good breed education!

Bloodhounds are NOT the breed for everyone! Let’s face it, they are big, with big energy (more than people think), need big-time training, have some big health challenges, and can make big messes! These are some of the reasons why the breed struggles with a huge population in rescue. But honestly, this is also (mainly) due to irresponsible breeders producing puppies and placing them in homes with owners who are not up for this challenge, so many Bloodhounds grow up to become not the best Bloodhound citizen.

Marlene’s Bloodhound Goal #2: See Goal #1 and do absolutely everything to reach people who have Bloodhounds; and not just be the Bloodhound clean-up team but also the Bloodhound education team!

Another area I focus on, and wish more people would, is that Bloodhounds are a working dog. So, a Bloodhound truly needs to be able to do its job, not just trot around the ring for two minutes but trail for two miles or maybe many more (honestly, in a variety of weather and terrain).

Marlene’s Bloodhound Goal #3: Help Bloodhound people learn more about Bloodhound trailing and the real purpose of their dog. Secondarily, get more law enforcement and search and rescue teams back to considering and using Bloodhounds.

Bloodhound dog show participants need to really learn the Bloodhound Breed Standard, and of course, all Bloodhound breeders should as well. To anyone who is enamored with the look and silly character of a Bloodhound and wants to learn more, I highly recommend:

• The American Bloodhound Club website: www.bloodhounds.org
• The Bloodhound Education Facebook page: www.facebook.com/groups/bloodhoundeducation
• And going to a dog show and talk with multiple Bloodhound owners and breeders; then go talk to someone who has some real Bloodhound working (mantrailing) knowledge. This will give you the best overall knowledge base on the breed. Please remember, the Bloodhound in the show ring is to be a representative that can not only just show but can go out and trail all day, possibly over many miles, in all sorts of weather and terrain, to find a lost child or a missing senior or a fleeing felon, etc.

The post Thoughts on Bloodhounds (The Breed I Love) appeared first on Showsight Magazine.

Interview with a Junior – Anja Cikara-Gocke

Where do you live? Where do you go to school?

Anja: I live in a small town in Northern Colorado called Buckeye. I go to an IB (International Baccalaureate) high school near me.

Do you have any hobbies or interests apart from purebred dogs? Do you have a job?

Anja: I love playing volleyball and being outside. This year, I was part of the Unified Flag Football team at my high school. It was an amazing experience to be part of such a supportive community.

Yes, I work with an Obedience trainer to help teach Beginner Puppy classes. I have also been training younger dogs for the Conformation ring.

Have you grown up in a doggy family? What is your breed(s)?

Anja: No, I did not grow up in a doggy family. I got my first purebred dog, an Australian Shepherd, after a few rescues. As a family, we decided to venture into the world of breeding and dog shows following guidance from a longtime Aussie breeder in Colorado. I was the first one in my family to get really involved in dog competitions and showing.

My breeds are mainly Australian Shepherds and Bloodhounds. I have shown other breeds in competition as well, including Goldens, Schipperkes, Australian Cattle Dogs, Corgis, Bouvier des Flanders, Border Collies, Bedlington Terriers, Miniature American Shepherds, and more. I’m excited to learn how to work with more breeds in the coming years.

How were you introduced to Junior Showmanship? When did you start competing?

Anja: I was introduced to Junior Showmanship through a Colorado Aussie breeder and friend, Leslie Sorensen. She sold me my first purebred dog and brought me into the world of dog shows. She showed me the basics, and I was able to grow from there. I started competing when I was eight years old.

What do you remember about the first time you showed as a Junior?

Anja: The first time I showed as a Junior it was at a small ASCA (Australian Shepherd Club of America) show in Kiowa, Colorado, and everyone was so supportive. I remember an older Junior, Bailey Crader, watched me, and during the breaks we would go outside to practice and she would help me. I have always looked up to her. It’s amazing how a positive first experience at a dog show can pave the way toward years in the sport.

How do you prepare your dog and yourself for the ring? Any rituals? Any good luck charms?

Anja: I usually try to calm my nerves to get my dog and I prepared for the show ring. I study the classes that go before me and see what the judge is looking for in the Juniors. I have a lucky necklace I wear most of the time too; it has an Aussie charm on it.

Do you have a mentor in the sport? Have you assisted any Professional Handlers?

Anja: I have had many mentors over the course of my time showing dogs. They have each helped me in different ways. I compete in Junior Showmanship, Obedience, Rally, and other dog sports. So, it’s amazing the team of mentors needed to help me navigate all of these events.

I have also assisted many Professional Handlers from Colorado, and currently plan to assist two Professional Handlers in 2023.

What do you think about the Judges? Do they seem to enjoy the Juniors ring?

Anja: I feel like most Junior judges enjoy their job and being in the Juniors ring. There are some who come off more “rough around the edges.” This helps us Juniors develop thicker skin, but it can be challenging for new kids. I’m a big advocate of asking for feedback and have found some helpful tips when asking the judge for pointers to improve my handling.

Are there any wins for which you are particularly proud? Any memorable losses?

Anja: A win that I am very proud of is my Best in Show Owner-Handled with my co-owned Bloodhound, “Evie.” That was a very exciting day, with many friends cheering me on. I will always remember that.

As for memorable losses, every time we don’t go home with a ribbon is a learning experience.

How is your breed shown? How do you accentuate your dog’s breed type in the ring?

Anja: Both Aussies and Bloodhounds are shown in a way that accentuates their best features. Aussies are moved quickly and are a free-stacking breed, making it easier to show them from a long lead. Bloodhounds are more hands-on, and you can do many things to make them stand out such as manipulating their furnishings and presenting the tail.

Is your breed generally well-suited for a Junior Showmanship career?

Anja: Yes, Australian Shepherds are the perfect Juniors dog. They can be shown in many different ways and are medium-sized, so they work well in a large or small ring. They have stamina to be able to withstand the long ring times that can be associated with the Juniors competitions. I would be remiss to leave out that there are typically many Juniors showing Aussies, so they are not the most unique dog to use in Juniors.

Have you bred or co-bred a litter? If so, can you share what you’ve learned from the experience?

Anja: My family breeds Australian Shepherds and I have helped with every litter so far. I learned the difficulties and effort that is put into every single puppy. It takes a lot of time and is a lot of hard work; not a path for the faint of heart.

With so many “low entry” breeds, what are your thoughts on breed preservation?

Anja: There are some very unique breeds I don’t see at a lot of shows. I do have some issues with my Bloodhound and finding needed points for her. We sometimes need to travel long distances to find competition to get important wins. It would be great to encourage more new owners of purebred dogs to try showing in order to gain numbers for breeds that are having similar challenges. I feel a lot of owners of purebred dogs don’t know about options available for showing their dogs, but would enjoy it if they knew about the opportunity.

Are there any breeds that you would love to show but haven’t shown yet?

Anja: I would love to show more Sporting and Herding breeds! I love dogs that move out in the ring and really want to go.

If you could choose only one breed to live with forever, which breed would it be and why?

Anja: Aussies, 100 percent. They are the perfect dog for me. Aussies need a certain amount of exercise, which helps me to get outside every day. They have high energy, which makes them good in the show ring, but they also have an off-switch for when you want them to chill out.

Can you share a word or two about your relationship with your current dog? What does s/he mean to you?

Anja: My dog is my best friend and is always there for any adventure. We have created a bond that will last a lifetime. It is so strong, and we are always by each other’s side. He always gives 100 percent, whether in the show ring or by my side at the ranch.

What are your goals for the future? Do you see yourself continuing in the sport once you’ve aged-out?

Anja: My goals are to continue being versatile and competing in many different rings at dog shows. I will always love competing and will strive to get to the next level.

• In Conformation, my goals are to learn more about grooming and handling different breeds.
• In Obedience, I am training for, and hope to achieve, my first Utility title on a dog this year.
• In Rally, I am striving to earn my first Master Rally title.

I also will be working with my new puppy, trying to finish his championship, training him for the Juniors ring, and earning many titles after his name as well.

Is there a funny story that you can share about experiences as a Junior Handler?

Anja: One funny story that I remember took place in the Rally ring at a local dog show. I had just run over from Juniors and had to go straight into the ring to do my Excellent Rally run.

I did not have time to warm up or do a walk-through. It was going well until we got to the jumps. There were two jumps very close to each other and my dog got way too excited. He started jumping up and down and licking me in the face. As this was going on I started to laugh, which only made things worse. He jumped even higher and I could not get him to stop. Eventually, he calmed down and we were able to finish the course with no further complications.

Although it may have been embarrassing for me, I remember everyone telling me how much they loved my dog’s energy. So many people came up to me and said how we made a great team and would do amazing things together in the future.

Both Aussies and Bloodhounds are shown in a way that accentuates their best features. Aussies are moved quickly and are a free-stacking breed, making it easier to show them from a long lead. Bloodhounds are more hands-on, and you can do many things to make them stand out such as manipulating their furnishings and presenting the tail.

The post Anja Cikara-Gocke – A Junior’s Journal appeared first on Showsight Magazine.