On Jun 12, 2012, at 2:35 PM, Tracy Novoa wrote:  Our standard reads: "The teeth 
are strong and healthy.  The molars intermesh properly.  The bite is a true 
scissors bite.  A perfect level bite is not desirable and must be penalized.  
Extreme overshot or undershot disqualifies."  
> 
> Is this right or wrong of judges to "judge to their own standard"?

According to the AKC  Rules, Policies and Guidelines for Conformation Dog Show 
Judges and the Judging Operations Judging Liaison "no, the judge should judge by 
the standard".  Also as it pertains to the comment, "he would have been the 
breed winner had it not been for the missing teeth."  AKC policy states, "Avoid 
making inappropriate comments to exhibitors in or out of the ring."

On p. 10 of the AKC Rulebook, Rules and Breed Standards it is the responsibility 
of the judge to understand and judge according to AKC Rules, Policies, 
Guidelines and current Standards in effect on the day of their judging 
assignment. If the decision depends on exact wording, it states not to hesitate 
to refer to the Rules, Guidelines or breed Standard or discuss the matter with 
the AKC Executive Field Representative. It also states one can discuss Rule 
issues with the Superintendent.

Based on his comments after the fact his decision was not made according to 
"exact wording" in the GSP breed standard. 

Also while under judgement GSPs should not be expected to have a full dentition 
exam as done with some of the working breeds.

Patte Titus
CheckSix Shorthairs


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