Conformation is basically the engineering of the
dog. In order to have powerful movement,
conformation is most important - this is what hangs
the dog together and provides a powerful level system
Here we will try to take each element of
conformation and explain it a little better with
photos to illustrate correct and incorrect elements.
There are two types of conformation, static and
kinetic:
Static Conformation:
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| These two elements of conformation contribute to the
balance and outline of the Rottweiler and permit the
lever system that puts the dog together.
Angulation plays an important part in all this -
angulation is the angle of the bones within the front
and rear assembly. The requirements for
angulation differ with each different breeds, the
Rottweiler is a compact dog which has to convey power
and drive - to facilitate this he needs power both in
the fore and rear.
An average front and rear assembly is a better
construction than a dog with a strong fore/rear and a
weak rear/fore. Weakness in one area will result
in the level mechanism being let down and faulty
movement will occur. Each judge will have
his/her preferences on which attributes are more
important in their eye but it must be remembered that
as a working dog, movement is of extreme importance.
This is a basic introduction to what conformation
is and what it achieves, now we will look at the
various elements that make up the overall
construction. Please click on the links in the
top left hand corner to access the different
elements. As always, if you have any questions,
please contact us - we are always happy to help.
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