Assessing Sporting Ability

[Alyosha]

The other thing that may be peculiar just to Salukis is that it is OK for the front feet to "turn out a small angle" - some say it's even desirable. Normally this would be considered being east west and therefore a fault. I think I've been dumped for that reason before but have never asked about it.

In working saukis it is often sought after from what I have read (regarding modern workers) as it is often an indicator of greater turning ability at speed and less injury to the pastern.

It's interesting that I seem to remember reading in the provisional standard under consideration by the FCI for the Khalag Tazi (similar anscestry to salukis and afghans) calls for slightly divergent forefeet. Here is a breed that is ancient, yet has been kept alive in modern times as mostly a working hound.

Edited April 6, 2009 by Nattylou

[jesomil]

I didn't get the impression btw that purebred dogs were being denigrated BTW more the growing divide between purebred working and show lines was of concern.

I dont believe the divide is growing, it has always been there and will always be there. In general, you simply cant breed for the show ring and for work and get a high standard in both.

In some breeds high class working dogs are necessary and you arent going to get that by breeding for the show ring. There will always be the two breeds within some breeds.