A new edition of the definitive guide to the official Breed Standards, authorised by The Kennel Club

The Kennel Club's Breed Standards form the basis for judging dogs at all licensed breed shows. This single-volume, authoritative guide is essential reading for anyone who owns, or hopes to own, a pure-bred dog. Containing full descriptive 'standards' for all pure breeds of dog recognised by The Kennel Club - of which there are currently 196 - The Illustrated Breed Standards is indispensable for breeders, judges, vets and anyone professionally involved with dogs. This book has been completely revised by a panel of experts to incorporate the latest standards for all the breeds in each of the principle categories - Hound, Gundog, Terrier, Utility, Working, Toy and Pastoral. A history of each breed is given, describing its origin and purpose, together with a description detailing its essential features. There is also useful advice on the nature and suitability of a dog, for example as an ideal family companion or an excellent guard dog. In addition, there are reminders about which breeds require lots of daily exercise, and which need hours of regular grooming. There is also a comprehensive glossary of canine terms.

Founded in 1873, the Kennel Club is the world's oldest authoritative body dealing with dog breeds and breed standards. Today the Kennel Club is concerned with promoting the general improvement of dogs, encouraging responsible ownership, in addition to the conduct of dog shows and trials. The Kennel Club is responsible for the licensing of nearly 5,000 canine competitions a year, all of which are held under Kennel Club Regulations.

2007-10-03 KC Illustrated Breed Standard

Authoritative work, beautifully produced with some superb illustrations. Extremely informative and coffee table book too.

Anyone wanting to really understand what makes various breeds so very different in their behaviour and attitudes should buy this book first.