The standard is the written genetic map for breeders to be able to continue to breed what the essence of the Yorkshire Terrier is. It was basically made prior to the existence of the YTCA. Its not necessary to belong to the club to understand the importance of the written standard for the breed.
The temperament of the Yorkshire Terrier is described in the standard right in its name. If your educated in dogs (as you should be for breeding) you know that even though its classified as a toy, it should have the temperament of a terrier. This is a feisty, confident, arrogant, playful, stubborn, vermin hunter.
This is why in the description its states the head should be carried high with self importance.
The tail was docked so to avoid injury to the thin area when pulling it from a hole or place with a catch in its mouth. It should be medium length because that's what a hand would comfortably grab hold of. Current times lends itself to lean toward undocked tails in some places.
As far as looks goes in the standard. If a Yorkie is unsound it doesn't move properly. An unsound dog will not get the correct structure, movement, muscle tone, or be strong enough to handle the show circuit. This is where breeding quality is judged. Thats what they were created for. If your dog is of breeding quality as compared to the standard, not just a beauty show. Although I will admit IMO its now more of a sport than it was originally intended.
These things and more are important to pass on to future generations to keep the Yorkshire Terrier what it is, and should be.
As for off colors and such I have no problem with them being a variety, but not change the standard as it is now to include them all together. |