Examples of Correct Features - Page 1

Can anyone share some images of what they think are the ideal eye shape, head shape, and/or ear shape?

I think this could be an informative discussion--hoping to learn what is considered ideal now--as opposed to examples from books that are 20+ years old.

Correct earset: Medium sized, held erect, both ears are the same, forward pavillion and pointed tips, ears of rather thick skin and neither long nor short and matching head size.
Head size: Medium big size, moderate breadth between ears.
Eye shape: Almond shape eyes, medium size and not protruding.



Forehead slightly arched, well defined sloping stop

      

Parallel planes, good ratios

 

Non parallel planes



Rather round small somewhat light eyes, ears rather small ratioed to head size



Wide open ears

Recently I was checking heads of 2011 VAs and found out that a good number of them have wrong planes of head and few are domed, maybe these two head features are overlooked by both breeders and judges and that has a big negative impact on future GSDs, just a notice and I know I might be wrong. In general I do notice that more numbers of Wl GSDs have better head planes & stops, again this is my personal finndings.

Ibrahim

I think the domed/apple heads of the SL's are the result of shorter and broader muzzles. The old for every action, a reaction thingie. If it continues, watch for more missing teeth, level and undershot bites,  and dogs that do not have patent airways due to overly long soft pallates. They will sound like freight trains when they are exerting themselves in any way. Eye shape will eventually change too and we will see more round eyes. Juding by photos only, some of the top males are starting to resemble rotties.

IMO ears should always be carried parallel to one another. Many GSD's are not. If I can figure out how to post a pic here, I have one of a female that I think it about as perfect as it can get.

 

IMO, a good female head.

Wow, Wowwww, that is one very beautiful head and stunning face !! do you have a shot of her head side view?

Ibrahim Do you see the dark spot on the tongue?

I do not, Ibrahim. Thanks for the nice comments. She's gone now, accomplished a lot in the breed. She was a very special and beautiful girl. I will never get over losing her.

http://www.workingdogs.com/lshaw1.htm

Link to the GSDCA illustrated standard written by Linda Shaw. Some may have read it, some maybe not. I believe it is being revised now. 

  

Very interesting topic!

I agree Ibrahim, IMO the German SL (esp in Germany) have been showing a tendency towards domed heads for a long time now. I also find that a  furrow in the forehead seems much more commonplace too, maybe because of the ‘dome’ ?

I love your examples of parallel and non parallel planes, something not often talked about but an important part of the standard, but unfortunately the standard and judging don't always go hand in hand.