LAGAY, JEAN-BERNARD

Professional Profile: Jean-Bernard Lagay

Jean-Bernard Lagay 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 within FCI Group 1, which encompasses a diverse array of sheepdogs and cattle dogs. As a specialist in this group, Lagay is tasked with the rigorous evaluation of working dogs, ensuring that each specimen adheres strictly to the established standards that define their functional utility and aesthetic excellence.

In his capacity as a judge for various competitions, Lagay emphasizes the preservation of the working instinct alongside physical conformation. His approach to judging is rooted in a deep understanding of canine biomechanics and the historical purpose of the pastoral breeds. By evaluating the ancestry of the dogs presented before him, he ensures that the structural integrity required for demanding tasks is maintained across generations. His presence in the ring is characterized by a methodical assessment of how each dog reflects its specific lineage and functional heritage.

As a member of the broader international community, Lagay contributes to the global standardization of canine evaluation. His judging philosophy is built upon four fundamental pillars of assessment:

• Movement and Gait Analysis: Evaluating the efficiency of the stride, the reach and drive of the limbs, and the overall soundness of the dog in motion, which is critical for pastoral breeds.
• Anatomical Balance and Proportions: Assessing the skeletal structure, the correctness of angulation, and the harmony of the dog's silhouette in relation to its size and substance.
• Breed Type and Expression: Scrutinizing the head properties, including the skull-to-muzzle ratio, eye placement, and ear carriage, to ensure the dog embodies the quintessential characteristics of its specific breed.
• Temperament and Ring Demeanor: Observing the dog's confidence, stability, and responsiveness to the handler, ensuring that the animal displays the steady nerves required of a working companion.

Through his commitment to these principles, Jean-Bernard Lagay continues to uphold the high standards of the FCI, ensuring that the integrity of Group 1 breeds remains protected for future generations of enthusiasts and breeders alike.