Preliminary biometric characteristics of Greyster dogs

The aim of the study was to record and analyse selected biometric data based on the results of measurements of Greyster dogs actively involved in sports. The results were compared with the biometric indices of other dog breeds, including the original breeds from which Greysters are derived and Polish native breeds. The study showed that the Greysters are of intermediate height as compared with the original breeds they are derived from, i.e. shorter than Greyhounds and taller than German Shorthaired Pointers. Their height index was less than one, which means that the height at the withers was greater than the diagonal body length in the rectangular shape of the body. The chest girth was greater than the height at the withers, and the ratio of these values, expressed as the massiveness index, is similar to that of the Polish Greyhound. The Greyster eurysomia index (ratio of chest girth to diagonal body length) was also similar to that of the Polish Greyhound. The biometric parameters of Greysters allow them to run fast. This predisposition was also indicated by the leg length index and the proportions of the lengths of sections of the pelvic limb. Further research is necessary to determine all of the biometric characteristics of Greysters. The results obtained at this stage of research can be used as an auxiliary tool in selecting these animals for breeding or sport competitions. Any information with biometric data may be helpful in establishing a breed standard for Greyster dogs and classifying them as an FCI breed.