DE ALMEIDA, PIERRE

Professional Profile: Pierre De Almeida

Pierre De Almeida is a distinguished figure within the French cynological landscape, serving as an official FCI judge under the auspices of the Société Centrale Canine pour l'Amélioration des Races de Chiens en France. His expertise is concentrated on the evaluation of Group 7, which encompasses the pointing dogs. As a specialist in this group, De Almeida is tasked with the rigorous assessment of functional morphology, ensuring that the dogs presented in the ring maintain the physical integrity required for their historical roles as field companions.

In his capacity as a judge for various championships, De Almeida adheres to the strict mandates set forth by the Federation Cynologique Internationale. His evaluation process is rooted in a deep understanding of the specific standards that define the functional and aesthetic requirements of pointing dogs. He approaches each assignment with a focus on the preservation of working traits, prioritizing structural soundness that allows for endurance and efficiency in the field.

His role within the international community requires a nuanced understanding of how different regional interpretations of a standard can influence the development of specific lineage. By maintaining a consistent and objective standard of judgment, he contributes to the long-term health and quality of the dogs he evaluates. His academic approach to cynology ensures that he remains current with the evolving requirements of the sport, always keeping the welfare and functional purpose of the animal at the forefront of his decision-making process.

When assessing a dog, De Almeida emphasizes the following core criteria:

• Movement and Gait Analysis: Evaluation of the dog's efficiency, reach, and drive, ensuring the gait is fluid and covers ground with minimal effort, reflecting the stamina required for hunting.
• Anatomical Balance and Proportions: A meticulous review of bone structure, shoulder angulation, and the relationship between the length of the body and the height at the withers to ensure overall harmony.
• Breed Type and Expression: Assessment of the head properties, including the skull-to-muzzle ratio, eye color, and ear set, which are essential markers of the dog's specific identity.
• Temperament and Ring Demeanor: Observation of the dog's confidence, stability, and willingness to engage, which are critical indicators of a sound mind and a balanced ancestry.

Through his dedication to the sport, Pierre De Almeida continues to uphold the high standards expected of FCI judges, ensuring that the integrity of the pointing dog groups remains protected for future generations of enthusiasts and breeders alike.