Interpreting the Breed Standard

Reading & studying both the FCI & the U.K. Kennel Club Standard’s can be confusing for prospective judges & potential owners.

Below we have tried to explain the major points that make up ’Bracco Type’.
This is not exhaustive but most certainly covers the main points.

 Bracco Angulation

The angulation shown above, coupled with the break in the upper profile of the back which is made up of two lines: one, almost straight, slopes from the withers to the 11th dorsal vertebra; the other is slightly arched, joining with the line of the rump, i.e. the topline is not level. Combines to give the Bracco its magnificent ground covering extended trot.

 




Important Proportions

Observe the general proportions of the typical Bracco in the drawing above.

The head, its length corresponds to 4/10 of the height at the withers i.e it is big; the middle of its length is at a level of a line which unites the inner angles of both eyes. The overall square or almost square body proportions. The heavier overall build than all the other U.K. HPR. breeds with the exception of the Italian Spinoni.

Mr Ciceri of the famous Dei Ronchi kennel,  said:

"To judge in the expo, in order of importance, first you must see the type, the meaning is, that the dog must be in the "breed", you have to see the characteristics of the breed in the dog (i.e. for the bracco the expression, the superior line of the head - divergence etc), second look at the body, angles, good legs and feet etc. Here the characteristics are relevant to all the dogs independently by the breeds, third the distinction. In the bracco, neck, region under orbital, where you see the bones of the face etc."




Correct Head Planes

The upper longitudinal axes of the skull and muzzle are divergent, i.e. if extending the top line of the muzzle, this must emerge in front of the occipital protuberance (the rear of the skull), ideally at mid-length of the skull.

Head

Angular and narrow at the level of the zygomatic arches. Note the low slung ears, well folded & held close to the head. The inverted V of the flews & the ‘slight’ double dewlap. 

Eyes

Semi-lateral position with a soft and submissive expression neither deep set non prominent. Eyes fairly large, eyelids oval shaped and close fitting (no entropion or ectropion). The iris is of a more or less dark ochre or brown colour depending on the coat colour.