As the parent breed club for the Epagneul Breton in the United States, the CEB-US takes pride in safeguarding the breed’s rich heritage. We strive to ensure that today’s EBs continue to honor their ancestors in both form and function. In a world where many breeds have drifted from their working origins or changed drastically to meet market demands, the EB remains steadfast. Whether in size, shape, drive, or temperament, the breed retains its essence, echoing its roots from early 20th century France.
Our efforts are continuously reaffirmed by the European judges who preside over our National Conclave field trials and conformation shows. These experts consistently confirm that the EBs in the United States maintain a strong alignment with the breed standard, both in appearance and performance. This is no small feat, and it is a testament to the dedication of our EB owners, breeders, and community members. Together, we strive to ensure that future generations of EBs remain true to the standard and uphold the breed’s integrity.
The Role of Testing and Evaluation
The partnership between CEB-US and the UKC has allowed for rigorous testing and evaluation, ensuring that our dogs are consistently measured against the breed standard. These evaluations, which include field trials, conformation shows, and temperament assessments, are essential tools to preserve the breed’s core traits while driving continuous improvement. [Click here to learn more about our three testing opportunities and how they help build on the breed’s bird dog heritage.]
We understand that not every owner is inclined to participate in trials or shows. However, these venues provide a valuable framework for tracking an individual dog’s pedigree performance and monitoring overall breed trends. By participating in these assessments, we not only honor the breed’s past but also create a clear path forward for its future.
This stands in stark contrast to some European countries, where testing opportunities are limited, and conformation standards are not held in the same regard. Recently, a dog in Slovenia earned a prestigious show title despite possessing several traits that deviate from the EB breed standard. This example highlights the dangers of titles being awarded without proper adherence to the standard, which can mislead potential buyers and breeders.
A Cautionary Tale: The Impact of Titles
The dog in question is likely a wonderful companion, and this discussion is in no way a criticism of the dog itself. However, it is important to use this situation as an educational opportunity. The dog displays several significant faults that do not align with the breed standard, including:
A disproportioned head
Incorrect ear set
Undefined neck
A descending topline
A severe croup
Poor angulation in the hips
Shoulder angles are too straight
Disproportioned hind leg bones
Hocks are very low
These deviations are concerning because they illustrate how easily a breed can drift away from its true form if titles are pursued without sufficient oversight. When judges fail to recognize or prioritize the breed standard, it opens the door for trends to develop that may threaten the breed’s integrity.
As stewards of the EB in the United States, it is our responsibility to provide education and guidance to breeders and buyers. It is critical that those involved with the breed understand the significance of major faults and have the resources to make informed decisions. Our goal is not to diminish the achievements of any individual dog, but rather to emphasize the importance of maintaining the breed’s core traits for future generations.
Stewarding the Breed for the Future
We must all remain vigilant in ensuring that the EB remains true to its heritage. This requires not only dedication to the breed standard but also a commitment to education, transparency, and thoughtful breeding practices. Titles and awards should serve as validation of a dog’s adherence to the standard, not as reasons to chase trends or shortcuts.
At CEB-US, we believe that a strong foundation in testing and evaluation, combined with open communication and community engagement, is essential to preserving the Epagneul Breton’s unique legacy. These efforts are designed to protect the EB’s deep-rooted history as a bird dog. Maintaining its drive, instinct, and passion for the hunt is central to safeguarding the breed’s true essence. As we work to advance the breed, we are committed to never diminishing the traits that make the Epagneul Breton a versatile and passionate hunting companion. By working together, we can ensure that this beloved breed continues to thrive—both in the field and in the show ring—for generations to come.
Comments