This is a general visual ‘outline’ of the most well-observed differences between bloodlines in America versus European bloodlines, showing several breeds. Keep in mind that every breed has many bloodlines, and both continents will have leaner and bulkier dogs that have not come from the opposite country’s bloodlines. So, again, this is just general, but what is highly observed within both the show and working dogs of both places.

In each photo, the American dog is on the left, European on the right.

Dobermans; both dogs have finished their championships.

Giant Schnauzers; both dogs have finished their championships.

Boxers (perhaps the most notable differences); both have finished their championships.

Great Danes (head study); both have finished their championships.

As you can see, bloodlines make a very big difference in the appearance of a dog. Furthermore, standards are not the same in every country within a single breed. And many minor changes are made based in various clubs. Some breeders also breed out undesired traits within standards that tamper with health, in an attempt to create a healthier dog that is still able to fit the bill of what the breed was meant to be.

Hopefully this helps clear up any confusion about the American vs European bloodline debates, or any that any of you may have been curious about.