The expression of the Drentsche Patrijshond

The breed standard of the Drentsche Patrijshond doesn’t state it outright, but the Drent is a “head breed”.

So, what does that mean, being a “head breed”? The details of the head are what defines a Drent. It is these details individually, and in summary that separates the Drent from the German Longhaired Pointer, Small Munsterlander, French Spaniel, or other somewhat similar white and brown piebald continental hunting dog from western Europe.

Another element not mentioned in the breed standard that all true fanciers can and will go on and on about is the “expression of the Drent”.

The expression of the Drent is the summary of all the details of the breed standard referencing the head; eye set, shape and color, ear set, muzzle length and proportion to skull, stop, nose bridge, and so forth all coming together in balance to create the classic look of the Drent; calm, warm, inviting and intelligent. A correct expression is defining of the Drentsche Patrijshond, much in the way that correct coat defines a German Wirehaired Pointer. Once you know what the correct expression of a Drent is, you cannot unsee it.

​Here is Bono Cooper v. d. Bezelhonk for reference.