2. The Breeder
2.1 Breeders’ Rights
2.2 Leasing for Breeding
2.2.1 Obligations
2.2.2 Frequency of Leased Breedings
2.2.3 Leased Breedings, Foreign Countries
2.2.4 Leased Breedings, Studbook bans
2.3 Kennel Names, Protection/Registration
2.4 Breeder and Assistant/Foster Breeder
3. Breeding Advice and Supervision
3.1 Local Clubs & the Breed Warden
3.1.1 Local Breed Warden’s Responsibility
3.1.2 Local Breed Warden’s Duties
3.2 The Tattooer
3.2.1 Responsibility of the Tattooers
3.2.2 Tattooers’ Extent of Mission
3.3. Identity- and Assurance of Ancestry
3.3.1 Genotype - database
3.3.2 Proof of Identity Through X-rays
4. Breed Value and Breeding Requirements
4.1 Zuchtwert (Breed Value)
4.1.1 Dogs Allowed in the Gene Pool
4.1.2 Dogs Suitable for Breeding
4.1.3 Dogs Recommended for Breeding
4.1.4 Dogs Not Qualified for Breeding
4.1.5 Breeding Procedure
4.2 Breeding Requirements
4.2.1 Minimum Age for Breeding
4.2.2 Frequency of Breeding
4.2.3 The Mating Acts
4.2.4 Litter Size
4.2.5 Foster Mothers (Nurses)
4.2.6 Litter Birth Announcement
4.2.7 Ahnentafeln (Pedigrees/Registrations)
5. Hip Dysplasia - Procedures
5.1 General
5.2 SV’s Preventive Measures
5.2.1 Investigative Procedure
5.2.2 Other Instructions for Breeders
6 Elbow Dysplasias - Procedures
6.1 General
6.2 Examination Procedures
7. Conservation & Advancement, Breeding
7.1 The Studbook (Breed Book)
7.2 Survey Record Book
7.3 Working Trials Scorebook
7.4 The show card
7.5 Record of Dogs, Breeding Advice
7.6 Working-title Dog Registry
Plan for the battle against HD.
SV Rules for the Breeder
1. General
The club for German Shepherd Dogs (SV) is the parent club of the breed,
recognized by the VDH and the FCI. The breeding rules of the SV serves
the advancement of breeding the German Shepherd Dog, and regulates the
entire area of the breeding activity. They are part of the club rules and
obligatory for all members of the club.
2. The Breeder
2.1 Breeding Privileges
For owners and holders of German Shepherd Dogs who want the privileges
of the studbook of the SV, (dogs, bitches, ownership, and/or handling),
membership in the SV is required. The breeder of a litter is the person
who owns or leases the dam at the time of mating. A transfer of the breeder’s
rights is also possible at the sale of a covered (bred) bitch. In this
case the Studbook office is to be presented with:
a. Proof of ownership transfer through submission of the Ahnentafel (pedigree/registration),
b. Certificate of mating.
These documents must be submitted to the Zuchtbuchamt (Studbook/breed-book
office) at the latest on the 49th day after the mating.
Permissions for exceptions cannot be given. A breeder can breed a maximum
of 10 litters per calendar year under his kennel name. This calculation
is based on the whelping date.
2.2 Leasing a Bitch
The lease of a bitch to breed (for a fee) is possible, but must be approved
by the SV. The lessee is considered the breeder of the litter when the
following requirements are fulfilled. The Studbook office is to be presented
with:
a.Lease (Sample contract/form)
b.Proposition for transfer of the breeders’ rights (form).
These documents must be submitted to the Zuchtbuchamt (Studbook/breed-book
office) at the latest on the 49th day after the mating.
Permissions for exceptions cannot be given.
2.2.1 Obligations
The fulfilment of the obligations emerging from the lease is incumbent
on the lessee.
2.2.2 Frequency of Leased Breedings
A breeder can transact a maximum of five leased breedings per calendar
year. This calculation is based on the whelping date. If the leased breedings
are successful, this will lead to entry in the studbook. Additional authorizations
are not permitted.
2.2.3 Leased Breedings with Foreign Countries
Leased breedings outside of German boundaries are not allowed. Exception
can be given for prior arrangements, which must be confirmed by the responsible
Landesgruppen and Ortsgruppen breed wardens, through the Studbook office.
The authorization of the breed book office must be given before the day
of mating. The authorization is only a possibility, and the bitches must
meet the breeding requirements according to the German rules.
2.2.4 Leased Breedings and Studbook Ban
A person prohibited by a Studbook ban is forbidden to assign breeders’
rights for a bred bitch to another person. With the imposition of a Studbook
ban, the embargo of a co-owned dog or bitch in the property of such a person
becomes automatic.
Stud notices for dogs that reside in the property of a person for whom
the studbook is blocked by the SV, may not be published in the SV Zeitung.
Stud dogs may not be offered for matings away from home and/or brought
in for matings on the property of a person covered by a Studbook ban.
2.3 Kennel Names and Kennel Name Protection (Registration)
Protection of an appropriate kennel name is to be applied for at the SV
breed book office before beginning of the breeders' activity. This proposal
is put in time, that the protection of the kennel name can be published
before the accomplishment of the bitch’s mating. A kennel name can be registered
and protected only for adult persons. The kennel name must be applied for
at the SV headquarters and be registered by them. It expires at the death
of the breeder, insofar as an heir does not apply for the continuation
of the name for himself, and/or 30 years after the last registration.
Existing kennel names will not be awarded up to 30 years after the death
of the breeder to another breeder. Puppies resulting from leased bitches
become entered under the kennel name of the tenant who has them at time
of tattooing (See 3.2.2.)
If several persons have ownership of a bitch, we count as the breeder the
one who the Studbook office has on record as being authorized to sign the
official papers. If the co-owner who is not authorized to sign should want
to breed the bitch, he is required to supply a written agreement from the
one authorized to sign.
3. Breeding Advice and Breeding Supervision: the Breed Wardens
3.1 Local clubs’ Breed Wardens (Ortsgruppen-Zuchtwarte)
There are Breed Wardens in the local clubs who are responsible for the
control and supervision of breeding activity at the local (subordinate
organization) level.
3.1.1 Responsibility of the Local Breed Wardens
The jurisdiction over breeders is determined by the respective
Landesgruppe (major geographical region) that they are in. The principal
Landesgruppe jurisdiction can hereby be determined by either of these two:
a. Jurisdiction based on the breeder’s place of residence;
b. jurisdiction based on the breeder’s local club membership.
In case of a member belonging to several Ortsgruppen (“OG”, or local clubs)
in the same Landesgruppe, the local-chapter breed warden responsible is
the one who is nearest to the residence of the breeder.
If memberships are held in several Ortsgruppen in different regional groups,
the responsible breed warden in the Landesgruppe in which the breeder has
his residence is the one to be recruited. If it is not possible for the
designated breed warden to make the first inspection within 3 days, the
breeder can consult his proxy or representative in the local club, or else
the breed warden of an adjacent jurisdiction. In such
cases the litter registration document is to be signed by both breed wardens.
3.1.2 Duties of the Local-club Breed Wardens
The local breed warden is obliged to clear up any breeding questions the
members within his local chapter have, and to consult on the breeding activity
and the breed organization. Arising out of this is the obligation for the
breed warden to constantly update his knowledge by participating in the
“breed warden courses” which are regularly given by the Landesgruppe. The
breed warden is particularly responsible for the care and record keeping
of litters in his region. The breed warden has to be first notified of
a litter or pup in his jurisdiction no later than the 3rd day after the
whelping, and must view the bitch from then on regularly, at least three
times, to observe and take note of their appearance. The tattoo number
of the dam is to be verified at this time.
The suitably care of the dam and pups is to be particularly considered
during these visits and in the report.
These breed warden’s examinations are to be accommodated by the breeder;
they also have to include suitably polite behaviour.
The breed wardens have to supervise the breeding of German Shepherd Dogs
within the sense and spirit of the breeding rules. They have to report
violations against the breeding rules, as well as “wild” (unplanned) breeding,
to the responsible Regional (Landesgruppe) breed warden.
3.2 Tattooers
For the purpose of identification, the puppies are tattooed in the club’s
district. Tattooing them is a requirement for registration in the "studbook”
(official SV records of GSD’s, also known as “breed book”). For tattooing
the litters (each puppy), the SV has arranged for and regulates tattooers
in the respective regional groups.
3.2.1 Responsibilities of the Tattooers
The tattooer or his proxy who has jurisdiction and is responsible for the
breeder (or the Aufzuchter, the person rearing the litter) is the one who
resides in the region of the breeder (or those rearing the pups, in the
case of pups nursed by a foster mother).
3.2.2 The Tattooers’ Field of Activity
The tattooer has the task to scrutinize and verify the responsibilities
of the local breed warden and to jointly target dates with him and the
breeder to tattoo the puppies starting with (at the earliest) the 50th
day of life. The tattoo can be accomplished only at the breeder’s (or Aufzuchter’s)
location and has to involve the entire litter (those pups being cared for
by foster mothers included). Tattooing after the 12th week of life may
be accomplished only under anaesthesia.
The tattooer furthermore has the task to check the litter registration
document (copy supplied by the responsible local breed warden) for completeness
and formal evidence of accuracy. If the tattoo number is later illegible,
this is to be reported to the SV studbook (registration records) office.
The costs of any re-tattooing has to be borne by the owner of the individual
dog. Claims for damages from tattoo administration are not permitted.
3.3. Identification and Guarantee of Pedigree
3.3.1 Genotype Database (DNA)
The Club (SV) has ordered a DNA genotype database for the sure identity
and verification of the lineage of dogs, on the basis of a molecular-genetic
ancestry investigation. This has been used worldwide since 1996.
3.3.1.1a The Process with a Blood Sample
The procedure is as follows:
a.The specified vet takes a blood test.
b.The contracted veterinarian guarantees to the SV the identity of the
dog to be examined through personal examination of the tattoo number and
his comparison with the number in the original Ahnentafel.
c.The name, the studbook number, and the tattoo number of each dog are
put on the furnished medical report, and with the blood sample these are
sent by the specified vet to the designated institution.
d.The evaluation and establishing of the DNA formula and the ancestry investigation
are to be accomplished centrally at the designated, contracted institution.
e.The SV headquarters office requires the Ahnentafeln from the owners.
f.Upon receipt of the finding, a stamp is placed on the Ahnentafel.
g.If the DNA data exist for father and/or mother, the ancestry can be verified.
In these cases one and/or two additional stamps can be affixed. By this
means, the correct descent is determined when one or two parents’ identity
is proven.
h.An exception or objection to one or both parents can be recorded at the
breed book office within a time limit of 4 weeks after delivery of the
decision to the applicant. Through the headquarters an expert authority
can be demanded.
This expert authority acts as a final arbitrator in regard to the decision/information.
Objections to his decision are impossible. The costs are at the expense
of the applicant (effective 1 Aug. 2001).
3.3.1.1b The Process with a Saliva Sample
The club has arranged for the security of identity and for the examination
of the inheritance of the dogs’ genotype -database on the basis of a molecular-genetics
inheritance investigation. The procedure includes the following items.
a.The tattooer takes saliva samples for the anticipated testing.
b.The tattooer guarantees to the SV the identity of the respective dog,
through personal control of the tattoo number.
c.On the front of the litter registration document, the tattooer will note
the procedure of taking the saliva sample.
d.The medical reports including the complete names and tattoo numbers of
the dogs, as well as the completely labelled and identified samples,
are provided and sent by the tattooer to the contracted institution. The
(carbon) copies of the medical reports are submitted with the birth documents
of the breeder to the studbook office.
e.The DNA sample is sent to the designated institute for the establishment
of a Profile that shows the parentage investigation on father and
mother.
f.On receipt of the result, a stamp addition is placed on the Ahnentafel.
With this, the correct ancestry (in reference to the parents) is considered
proven.
g.The tattooer is likewise to be used for acquisition of the saliva samples
from mature dogs, too.
3.3.2. Proof of Identity on Radiographs
Before completing the 31st use at stud, each dog is re-examined with regard
to the previous HD investigation. A second radiographic evaluation is to
be made by a veterinary university hospital. If the first radiograph has
been taken at a university hospital, another university hospital is to
be chosen for the second radiograph session. The developed film is examined
by the HD expert assigned by the SV without benefit of the initial radiograph.
Sedation of the dog at the second radiography is not imperative. The expert
decides on the usefulness or fitness of the second radiograph with regard
to the required verification [of suitability for breeding].
4. Breed Value and Breeding Requirements
4.1 Breed Value
4.1.1 Dogs Admitted to the Gene Pool
To be allowed breeding rights in the SV system, all dogs must be entered
in the studbook, and possess on the date of mating a training degree
such as SchH 1-3, IP 1-3, HGH, or an equivalent acknowledged training degree,
obtained under an SV judge (applies to German-resident dogs). The SchH
or IP title must include a score of at least 80 points in phase C (protection).
In addition, at an SV conformation show or breed survey they must have
the breed evaluation of at least “Good”, and have both the “a” stamp for
hips and a DNA archives number marked in the Ahnentafel. The NA record
is essential for dogs born after July 1, 1999. For dogs bred in foreign
countries, which are to be bred in Germany, the DNA information is required
regardless of their whelping dates. Two classes of breeding animals are
hereby distinguished.
4.1.2 Dogs “Suitable” (Allowed) for Breeding
Dogs suitable for breeding are those that get classification 2 (Körklasse-2)
at an SV breed survey. 4.1.3 Dogs “Recommended” for Breeding
Dogs recommended for breeding are those that get classification 1 (Kkl-1)
at an SV breed survey.
a.4.1.4 Dogs Not Qualified or Suitable for Breeding (not allowed to breed
(have registrable offspring) not meeting the requirements under 4.1.1 to
4.1.3
b.dogs from the working dog records of the SV (a classification of working
dogs not necessarily purebred or breed worthy but that are actively in
service)
c.dogs with the following defects:
- poor/weak in character, biting and nervous dogs
- known “severe HD”
- unilateral and bilateral cryptorchids
- incorrect ear and/or tail faults
- any deformities
- tooth faults as follows:
- are missing:
1 premolar-3 and 1 further tooth
or 1 fang
or 1 premolar-4
or 1 molar-1
or 1 molar-2
or any 3 or more teeth.
(The absence of the molar-3 is of no consequence if such dogs have the
original presence of the tooth proven and confirmed on the Ahnentafel.)
- Considerable pigment faults, also blues
- long-coats, with or without noticeable undercoat
- tooth (bite) faults:
more than 2 mm overshot*
undershot
- over- and/or undersize by more than 1 cm:
Males 66 cm / bitches 61 cm max. (Kkl-2 possible if over 65/60 cm but not
over the max.)
- bitches that have given birth three times with Caesarean (C-section)
- the pectineus muscle having been cut
d. Surgical operations on a dog for the purpose of correction or for acquisition
and/or improvement of a breed survey (examples: ears, tail, teeth,
testicles) will result in a breeding prohibition and legal proceedings
against the owners.
e.The breeding value of dogs described under 4.1.4 listed dog is considerably
limited. They are not to be used, therefore, for breeding. Should there
be any progeny from these dogs, they are ineligible for entry in the studbook
of the SV. The owners of these dogs are informed by registered letter about
the decision, regarding the uselessness to the breed, immediately upon
being known to the breed book office. Objection to the decision is possible
14 days after delivery, at the latest. If there is an objection, the studbook
manager decides in the first instance, and in case of further objection,
the SV president or the Chief Breed Warden makes the definite, final decision.
4.1.5 Breeding procedure
For breeding, the following are required:
Purebreds = pairing of animals of same breed. This leads automatically
to the exploitation of genetic value through family relationships or linebreeding.
Inbreeding = breeding based on relatively close kinship, in which an ancestor
is represented at least once on both father’s and mother’s side. Inbreeding
(most Americans call this linebreeding) also includes siblings’ relationships.
By definition, this relationship is considered as limited to the first
five generations of ancestors.
One further distinguishes:
Most narrow inbreeding (incest breeding) is pairing between parents and
children, grandparents and grandsons or between siblings (therefore
between relatives of the 1st and 2nd degree) in a straight or side line.
Inbreeding closer than 2-3 or 3-2 (including with siblings of those dogs)
is not allowed. (Linebred 2-3 is the maximum.)
Narrow inbreeding is pairing between relatives of the 3rd and 4th degree
(dogs found in the 3rd or 4th generation —Linebreeding such as 3-4)
Wider inbreeding is pairing with relatives in the 4th and 5th degree. (4-5
breeding)
Outcross breeding is by a single introduction of “foreign blood” (dog without
common ancestors in the first 5 generations).
Outcross breeding is pairing of animals of the same breed, but which are
not related.
Since almost all purebred dogs have emerged from narrow gene pool, it suffices
to say we should pursue the wider linebreedings. In this, a genetic
connection between ancestors is looked for, to determine the good genetic
producers. Animals should not be doubled up again and again through closely
related “blood” through narrow linebreeding; to avoid unpleasant phenomena
the hereditary factors should be set as wide or open as feasible.
4.2 Breeding Requirements
In addition to the determinations under 4.1, the following are important:
4.2.1 Minimum Age of the Breeding Animal:
The male must have had his 2nd birthday by the time of the breeding. Bitches
must be at least 20 months old by the first breeding use (date of mating).
Unintentional matings before the respective minimum age are to be reported
immediately to the responsible local breed warden, who will inform the
regional breed warden and the Studbook office. Regarding any litter registration
from such combinations, the studbook manager decides, together with the
SV chief breed warden and/or the president.
4.2.2 Frequency of the Breeding Use
For dogs and bitches co-owned by two or more persons, they must inform
the breed-book office as to which one person is authorized to sign
as agent or representative of the partnership. This information as to representation
and authorization to sign must be signed by all co-owners and presented
to the breed book office within 30 days after ownership transfer.
4.2.2.1. Rüden (Stud Dogs)
Males that meet the requirements of the breeding rules are allowed up to
a maximum of 90 matings per calendar year, consisting of 60 matings for
domestic (German resident) bitches and up to 30 for foreign bitches. The
matings are to be proportioned or divided so that approximately 50% are
in each half of the year as uniformly and evenly distributed throughout
the year as possible by months. The distribution of the matings to “in-land”
vs. foreign countries is at the option of the owners of stud dogs. If a
dog first becomes 2 years old during the calendar year, only a pro-rated
number of matings are allowed, calculated from the time of becoming 2 years
old. This includes matings with domestic as well as with foreign bitches.
A transfer of domestic bitches to foreign status and reverse is not permissible.
Frequent matings shortly one after another are to be avoided because of
the constitution and for a sure fertilization. Matings by a dog with
the same bitch within 28 days are counted as one mating.
If the owner (or the agent/representative who is authorized to sign) breaks
the rules (see 4.2.1), in reference to a dog, he is to be punished according
to such determinations (see also 4.2.2.) as follow:
1.At the first proven violation for too many matings, the violator gets
a fine in the amount of 515 Euro, along with the warning of an imposition
of a three-month embargo of the dog (prohibition of breeding rights) in
the case of repeated violations.
2.At a second proven violation for too many matings, the violator gets
a fine in the amount of 515 Euro, a three-month embargo of the dog, and
an introduction of legal proceedings by the SV disciplinary committee (“court”).
4.2.2.2 Bitches:
Healthy bitches can be used twice annually for breeding (in so far as the
regulations under 4.2.4. not are affected). The bitch’s owner has to inform
the responsible breed warden about the mating and the litter.
4.2.3 Matings
The free choice [yes or no] of the stud dog is the right of the breeder;
likewise the stud dog handler or manager has the right of selection of
the bitches to be admitted.
When the stud dog has executed the copulation, the breeding is considered
as accomplished, and with it is fulfilled the requirement to give the arranged
fee for stud service. If the bitch does not become pregnant, a second free
mating is to be granted. Abortion and/or the bitch staying non-pregnant
is to be indicated to the owner of the stud dog immediately.
The completed mating is to be confirmed by the owner of stud dog (and/or
the agent, or person authorized to sign — see 4.2.2.) with a certificate
of mating to be supplied by the studbook office with marked prices beside
the statements contained in the form. This will include information about
the breeding partners, signatures, a statement of the place of issue, and
the dates of matings. It is forbidden to give out
blank (not filled-in), signed breeding certificates.
The breed book office is to be informed within 10 days after the day of
mating in writing about the completed mating. The time limit applies if
the studbook office in this time can record the receipt of the notification.
If the owner (or the agent/representative who is authorized to sign) breaks
the rules (see 4.2.2), in reference to a dog, he is to be punished according
to these determinations as follows:
1.At the first proven violation for lateness and/or omitted entry of five
matings in the calendar year, the studbook office imposes a fine in the
amount of 515 Euro.
2.At the second proven violation for tardiness and/or omitted reporting
of six to ten matings in the calendar year, the studbook office imposes
a fine in the amount of 1030 Euro, joined with a warning that in the case
of recurrence, a three-month embargo of the dog (prohibited from breeding)
can be imposed.
3.At the third proven violation for tardy and/or omitted reports of more
than ten matings in the calendar year, the studbook office imposes a fine
in the amount of 1545 Euro, as well as a three-month embargo of the dog,
and begins the SV court's legal proceedings.
Under the rules regarding section 4.2.2.1. and 4.2.3., there will be published
the particular fine and/or a notice in the SV Zeitung under "Unnamed
penalty" with the distribution 2/3 German Sieger Show and 1/3 Bundessiegerprüfung.
The breed book office is responsible for the supervision and punishment
under the rules in sections 4.2.2.1. And 4.2.3. After accomplishing a hearing
of the owner and/or agent of the stud dog, (see 4.2.2.) the decision is
delivered per registered letter. The person affected can appeal the decision
at the breed book office within 14 days after delivery of the decision.
The SV Board decides re the appeal.
If there is a suspicion of a pathological fertility disorder in a stud
dog, the owner and/or agent (see 4.2.2.) at his cost, is required by the
studbook office to allow a university veterinary clinic to examine the
dog within four weeks. If it is ascertained that a dog that is not procreative
or only partially so, he can removed from Körung and blocked from
the breeding registry. If bitches are “empty” and it is shown that the
dog is lacking fertility, the owners/lessees of bitches can demand return
of the full stud fee.
After a completed mating, requirement for the payment of the arranged fee
for stud service applies. The performance of the stud dog is fulfilled.
If the dog does not stand at stud any more (for example, sale or death),
half the stud money is to be paid to the bitch’s owner. Stud dog owners
are obligated to refund the full stud fee for non-pregnant bitches, if
through their fault the dog should be completely or occasionally unavailable
or prevented for the breeding.
If the bitch does not become pregnant, a free mating is to be granted.
The lack of a pregnancy is to be indicated by the owner or the agent of
the dog immediately.
A litter with two different sires shall not be entered in the studbook
of the SV. In such cases the studbook office undertakes confirmation of
inheritance regarding entries in the pedigree register.
Sperm collection for artificial insemination is forbidden. Puppies produced
by A.I., as well as cloning, are not recorded in the studbook of the SV.
4.2.4 Litter Size
A bitch may rear not more than eight puppies from her own litter. Additional
puppies are to be raised by means of a nurse (foster mother).
The club maintains nurses for this arrangement in each Landesgruppe. If
the bitch has more than 8 puppies, she may be bred again no earlier than
6 months after the whelping date.
4.2.5 Foster Mother
The nurse to be used must have a withers height of at least 50 cm, be robust
and healthy, and have a good nature. A nurse may be been allowed to raise
puppies of only one other bitch, and of course at most six, including the
puppies whelped by the nurse.
If a nurse raises no litter of her own, she can be been given puppies from
two different litters, if the puppies are marked so that a mistake is not
possible. The breed warden has to supervise the foster mother and to confirm
the labelling is certain. The puppies are to be farmed out at the latest
on the 10th day of life. The foster mother must be confirmed by the responsible
breed warden in the litter registration document and/or the foster dam’s
certificate. The puppies raised with a nurse are to be marked in the tattoo
certificate with “A”.
To breed a bitch exclusively to provide a foster mother (nurse) is not
permitted. The use of false-pregnancy bitches is not permitted.
If a bitch has entered the picture after the whelping, the foster mother
can take over some of the puppies after the 10th day of life, if the Landesgruppe
breed warden or the studbook office gives the authorization.
The choice of which pups to submit to the nurse for raising, must be done
at the latest by the 10th day if not more than eight puppies of the litter
are retained by the mother. Puppies with any deformities, and such
that have not appeared on further view to be viable or keep up with the
littermates, are to be killed at the latest on the 11th day painlessly
(and only by a doctor or a competent person) and only under anaesthesia.
In special cases the headquarters is to be tuned in or consulted.
Raising pups by a different species is not permitted.
It is appropriate to remove dewclaws (wolf-claws on the hind legs) in the
puppies’ first week of life. (Translator’s note: the dewclaws are no longer
forbidden as of 2002.)
The puppies are not placed (moved, given away, or sold) before their tattooing.
This moving also is allowed only so far as they are healthy, and no contagious
diseases rule in the kennel. Puppies may be tattooed only at the breeder.
If puppies have been given away in foster mother, these must be fetched
back to the litter for tattooing.
The repatriation of those pups that were in the foster mother’s care to
the dam may earliest be accomplished after the sixth week of life. If the
puppies are not tattooed directly after the repatriation, the breeder has
to confirm the identity of the mother and foster mother.
4.2.6 Litter’s Birth Announcement
The breeder informs the breed warden directly after the whelping.
Before the tattooing, the litter certificates are to be filled out (plus
a copy each for the breed warden, tattooer and breeder). The information
with the necessary documents is to be submitted by the breeder completely
to the SV headquarters within 6 months.
The following information for pedigrees is to be enclosed:
Pedigree of the bitch (if a change in ownership has occurred)
Certificate of mating
Litter registration document
Tattoo certificate (original)
Tattoo control document
if necessary, a foster dam certification
4.2.7 Pedigrees
Pedigrees are proof of ancestry. The SV Studbook office confirms the identity
with the studbook entry.
SV Pedigrees (Ahnentafeln) are acknowledged by the VDH and the FCI as certificates
of authenticity. Pedigrees remain the property of the SV. Possession of
the Ahnentafel is by the owner of the dog. The pedigree can also be in
the possession of the lessee of the bitch during the duration of the lease.
This includes also “holders” (managers, agents) of stud dogs at breeding
stations.
The breeder is obligated to examine the pedigrees for their accuracy and
to confirm this with a signature on side 1. The delivery of the pedigrees
of a litter can be accomplished only by the breeder personally. Changes
in ownerships are to be confirmed on the back page of the pedigree with
names and address of the buyer, date, and signature of the clerk; the SV
office is to be informed immediately. It is forbidden for the owner, to
sign pedigrees without entering the change in ownership.
5. Hip Dysplasia (HD) Procedures
5.1 General
Hip dysplasia is a pathological change of the hip joints in the area of
the sockets and femoral heads. The form of the disease is on a continuous
“spectrum” from slight to the severe form.
The club has applied a process for the breeders’ fight against HD, arranged
since 1966, and has until today shown outstanding results for breeders’
selection. That is, the club has set up in addition an obligatory breeding
program for the fight against hip dysplasia with the method of the “Breed
Value Assessment”, known as “Zuchtwert”.
5.2 SV Preventive Measures
5.2.1 Investigative Procedure
The status of the hip joints is ascertained through radiography.
The process has following conditions:
a.Basically, radiography can be accomplished only once.
b.The minimum age of the dogs for the investigation is 12 months.
c.The approved/contracted veterinarian guarantees to the SV the identity
of the dog to be examined through personal control of the tattoo number,
comparing this number to that in the original pedigree.
d.The examining veterinarian sends the film and his judgment, with the
name of the dog and the tattoo number on the radiograph, to the SV headquarters.
e.The evaluation and final examination is done at the central place of
interpretation, which is the veterinary university in Hanover (clinic for
small pets). Beside this interpretation center, there are additional veterinary
universities and universities with HD specialists.
f.If the finding is Normal, Almost (fast-) Normal, or Still Permissible
(noch zugelassen) the “a”-stamp is placed on the pedigree by the SV. Owners
of dogs identified with Medium (Moderate) HD are notified by the SV with
a postcard. Dogs shown to have a severe form of HD are announced as having
a ban on progeny registration.
g.In case of a dog owner’s disagreement with the first finding of the “a”-stamp
value, he has the possibility of a second examination.
This is to be requested to the studbook (Zuchtbuch) office of the SV within
6 months after delivery of the information and can be accomplished only
at the SV’s central HD interpretation location (Hanover). In such a case,
the main office will require the services of an expert authority. For the
expert authority’s use, two new radiographs of the hip joints, with both
extended and flexed upper thighs, are necessary. These films may be prepared
only by a university veterinary hospital. The expert’s finding is
conclusive, definite, and final. Objections are not allowed. The costs
are borne by the applicant.
5.2.2 Other Instructions and Information for Breeders
a.for the breed evaluations of “VA” and “V”, the “a”-stamp acknowledgement
is required;
b.for the breed survey, the “a”-stamp is also required;
c.illegal operations or activities with a dog, with the goal of achieving
ability to breed, are forbidden and result in the introduction of internal
SV criminal proceedings.
6. Elbow dysplasia (ED) - procedures/process
6.1 General
A pathological degenerative change in the elbow is called elbow dysplasia,
which disease shows different forms or manifestations of arthroses in these
joints.
The form of the disease varies in a smooth spectrum from slight to severe.
Beginning January 1, 2002, The club has arranged, on a voluntary basis,
a procedure for the fight against elbow dysplasia.
6.2 Investigative Procedures
The inquiry of the status of the elbow joints is ascertained through radiography.
That procedure has the following features:
a.The radiography can be accomplished basically only once. The minimum
age of the dogs is 12 months.
b.The SV-approved veterinarian assures the SV of the identity of the dog
being examined through personal observation of the tattoo number and comparison
of that number with the one in the original pedigree.
c.The name of the dog and the tattoo number will be forwarded from the
examining veterinarian with the radiographs of both elbows, and the
diagnostic reports, to the studbook office.
d.The study and definite, final evaluation is done by the central place
of interpretation (a designated university clinic).
e.Findings of "Normal (no evidence of ED)", "Borderline case", and “Slight
ED (‘ED-1’)” can have a stamp placed on the pedigree by the SV. Owners
of dogs with ED degrees 2 and/or 3 are notified through the breed book
office in writing.
7. Arrangements for the Conservation and Advancement of Breeding
Performance tests, shows, and the breed survey are for this purpose. Details
are determined in the survey rules, show rules, and working trial rules.
7.1 Studbook
The entire GSD breed (qualified dogs) is contained in the registry. Applications
can be taken only from persons who are over 18 years old.
For youths under 18 years, the written agreement of the parent or legal
guardian is necessary. The studbook (SZ registry) was developed for the
breeding of the GSD and forms a record of progeny of the animals used in
creating the breed base. To attain a most inclusive possible knowledge
about the ancestry and descent within the breed, the studbook must include
a record of the entire breed, within the meaning of the breeding rules,
listing qualified animals in the registry, even when it should turn out
later that they are not suitable for breeding for any reason. Also it is
necessary to record these dogs, because thereby the necessity and ability
are created, to be able to determine the transmission of good and bad traits
within the breed.
The pedigree of a dog is derived from the studbook, which gives not only
useful information about the names and descent of the individual ancestors,
but also about their working ability or titles. It gives also information
on the colour of the dog and its siblings, training, show, and breed survey
results of the parents, grandparents, and their siblings. In the studbook
and in the pedigrees, progeny are identified as to breed-surveyed parents,
especially from Leistungszucht (breeding from two parents and four grandparents
with training degrees).
7.2 Survey Record Book
Through the breed survey (Körung), the breeding animals will appear
as a selection in regard to their nature, their performances, and their
anatomical construction; in particular, measurements suitable for the conservation
and advancement of the breed and its working ability.
The survey record book is an addition to the studbook, and together with
it and the show- and trial reports, it gives advice for purposeful breeding.
The breed survey follows particular rules.
7.3 Working Trial Scorebook
This takes in all animals entered in the studbook or record that have participated
in an achievement test acknowledged by the SV.
The working trial scorebook records the studbook name of the dog, the studbook
and registration numbers, training degrees, and the overall evaluation
acquired on each achievement test, with appraisals for the individual sections
of the test, like tracking work, obedience performance, and courage test.
7.4 The Show Card
This is for all dogs entered in the studbook that are acknowledged by the
SV as having participated in a conformation show. It contains beside that
studbook information, the name of the dog, and the breed and show evaluations
recorded at that show.
7.5 Record of the Dogs with Breeding Advice (judges’ breed warnings and
recommendations)
The record of the dogs with registration bans contains the names of the
dogs, and why progeny of these dogs are not allowed entry in the studbook
of the SV. This is disclosed continually in the Zeitung.
7.6 Working-title Dog Registry)
The Gebrauchshund registry contains dogs with or without proven ancestry
but with the corresponding breed attributes.
These January 2002 breeding rules replace all earlier determinations.
***************************************************************
Appendix:
(Breeding Program for the Fight against Hip Dysplasia)
1.General
The German Shepherd Dog is one of those breeds known for hip dysplasia.
A hereditary disposition is responsible for it appearing in the individual.
The formulated measures that follow serve the genetic improvement of the
breed. In addition, it represents advice for the suitable breeding, nourishment
and care necessary in rearing pups from infancy.
2.Determination of the genetic risks
The SV has acknowledged responsibility for the estimation/calculation of
the average genetic makeup of the breed in a program called a Breed
Value Assessment, or Zuchtwert (ZW). Presently the process uses statistical
tools such as MMP (Mixed Model Prediction) and MM (Mixed Model Estimate)
and includes all relationship info and the best available procedures. The
breed values are expressed as relative breed value, with a ZW number. The
numerical magnitude reference of ZW 100 is the average genetic makeup of
animals with the HD classification Fast-normal (“almost normal”). That
leads to a hypothetical animal, without kinship to other evaluated and
rated animals, over an extended period of time.
3.Information
The Zuchtwert appraisal system and the HD classifications of the FCI serve
as information for the general direction of the breed. Further knowledge,
for example, from early X-ray pictures, is processed according to its importance.
4.Timing Responsibility for Reporting the Calculation Results
The ZW Breed Value Assessment is published at least quarterly. The current
numbers are made accessible to the breeder in suitable ways. At the beginning
of each quarter, the members, breeders and local clubs can get the ZW numerical
values over the Internet. In addition, the ZW numbers are updated on “S.I.D.”
Information Software, obtainable from SV headquarters. These numbers are
obligatory for the progress for which our breeding program is committed.
The regional groups name delegates for the ZW program who are supposed
to get that info from the Internet and disperse it to the members and breeders
in their regions. These representatives are responsible for doing so.
The breed value of the relevant dogs and bitches also gets published in
the monthly “Nachrichten des SV Zuchtbuchamtes”, which is the news of stud
services and which documents the owners of both breeding partners. Current
ZW (breed value) numbers can also be obtained from the SV headquarters
for a fee.
5.Progress
Animals with medium and severe HD are not permitted to breed (according
to § 4, paragraph 1.3 of the VDH breeding rules). [VDH is the all-breed
national dog club that the SV is associated with.]
Dogs, which in reference to other features of the breed are qualified to
breed, in accordance with the Zuchtordnung (breeding rules) of the SV,
may only be paired if the risk of the puppy developing HD does not overstep
a certain limit. The limit is expressed through the average ZW of both
dogs in the breeding pair. At this time, a limit or upper boundary for
that average is decided to be 100. Striving for lower values is recommended.
The breeder must inform himself regarding the suitability or evidence of
the bitch being permitted for such a pairing. In figuring the ZW average
of the breeding pair, the respective dogs’ ZWs in the quarterly report
on date of mating will apply. If the date of mating should be within 2
weeks after publication of the current ZW numbers, the prior quarter’s
breed values can also be used.
6.Violations
Violations against the progress of this breeding program are punished as
violations against the breeding rules.
7.Validity
This breeding program became effective July 1, 1999.
SID Issue 1 Jan. 2001, published by the SV - Der Zuchtausschuss informiert
(Fred’s excerpts and editing of original translation by Susanne Stramm)
The duties of the breed wardens and the rights and duties of the breeders
(owners of both male and female dogs) (produced by the SV breed book office
in cooperation of the SV breed warden) The office of the breed warden carries
a lot of responsibility and may be at times rather a thankless task, as
he is called upon to ensure that the regulations of the SV are adhered
to. Only such persons that have the required knowledge and experience as
well as the trust of the membership of the club as well as that of the
region and the main office/association should be elected to this office.
The membership and breeders should be aware that the breed warden wants
to help them in every situation, but that he cannot deviate from the rules
of the SV and also cannot tolerate any deviation (from these regulations)
not can he manipulate any such deviation. If he is to be burdened with
the work he can demand to be informed by the members and breeders about
all that encompasses his area of work.
The significance/authority that is given to a training warden of a club
with respect to the training of the dogs must also be given to a breed
warden. He is responsible for the continuance and the further development
of our breed. Therefore we cannot be clear enough - nor can we say it often
enough - what we must ask of breed wardens, breeders and stud owners.
1.The breed warden has the duty to advise breeders and he has the right
to monitor the breeding, keeping and raising of dogs. He must be dedicated
to and knowledgeable about the breed goals and duties of the SV; he must
furthermore be knowledgeable about the Breed survey and breed books, the
top breed lines and their ancestry and characteristics. He must be knowledgeable
in the breeding and rearing (of the dogs), also in questions of husbandry,
feeding and training and lastly the evaluation of structure. The selection
of the breed warden in the clubs must take into account these criteria.
This must be monitored by the regions. In large clubs an assistant breed
warden can be made available to the breed warden, to take over certain
duties. In the case of relatives (same mailing address) the assistant must
register the litter.
2.The Club breed warden must advise first - in a friendly manner - club
members who in his opinion have made mistakes in the breeding or maintenance
of dogs. He - in this case - also should educate them about the dangers
implicit in this behaviour - for the future of our breed and if necessary
educate them about the consequences for our breed. If neither advice nor
admonishment helps or if serious mistakes are being made the club, the
regional breed warden and the main club must be told and their decision
must be awaited.
3.The breed warden reports about his activities very month to the club
meetings and also on a yearly basis reports in writing to the regional
breed warden.
4.Apart from his own experience the breed warden may refer to the club
library, that is the breed survey books, breed books and other reports
contained in the club library.
5.Those seeking advice should not over-burden the breed warden. This means
that they should send their questions and requests should be short and
clear. If these requests are made in writing then it is best to put them
in the form of a questionnaire with sufficient room to write the answer
in a blank space left beneath the questions.
6.Breeders who wish to be advised in selecting a suitable stud dog for
their female must present the complete pedigree and if applicable the breed
survey report for the female as well as the report about the trials and
show ratings. The breed warden must not be asked to undertake this work
him. If at all possible the female must be presented for this evaluation,
if this is not possible then at the least a suitable picture must be presented,
which should allow for an evaluation of the structure. At the same time
– (and this must be done by the breeder!) - the breed book excerpts about
the lines of the female and the stud dogs considered must be presented.
This can also be achieved by presenting copies of the pedigrees.
7.The same holds for stud dog owners who would like to be advised about
suitable females.
8.The right to watch over the breeding activities also extends to the breeding
animals, their keeping, use and work, their litters, puppies and young
dogs and therefore also on their keeping and nutrition.
9.Only animals that are strong, healthy and not genetically defective,
and that are representative of the breed may be used in breeding. They
must also be in accordance with the breed regulations. Admissible are all
dogs that are registered in the SV breed book, who when they are bred to,
have a title in accordance with the Trial regulations (SchH 1-3, passed
with a minimum of 80 points in C, HGH or an equivalent) have received a
show rating of G (minimum) at an SV show, have the A stamp and have a DNA
registration number. IN addition the HD breed value may not be above 100
(the average of the two dogs HD ZW). Dogs that have been bred in a foreign
country must also have proof of a "DNA tested" stamp, thereby must promise
to be good for the breed with respect to temperament and predisposition
(genetics?).
10. When used for breeding, males must be (on the day of the breeding)
2 years old. Females have completed their 20th month (when first used for
breeding).
11. A stud dog may at the most do 60 breedings to bitches from his homeland
and up to 30 breedings for foreign females. These breedings must be dispersed
equally - 50 % for the first half year and 50 % for the second half year.
The breedings should be spread as evenly as possible for the respective
half year over each month. Frequent stud dog acts following close to another
should be avoided because of the constitution and to ensure the taking
of the breeding. Stud dog services with the same female within 28 days
are to be counted as the same stud dog service. The selection of the stud
dog is up to the breeder, as well as the selection of the suitable female
is up to the stud dog owner. The correct stud dog act is recorded by the
stud dog owner on the stud dog report (Deckbescheinigung) with his signature.
At the same time the breed book office must be advised within 7 days.
After completing the stud dog act the work of the stud dog is seen as completed,
hence the precondition for the stud dog fee has been met. (See Breeder
Rules, Jan. 2002, translated by Fred Lanting) If the female does not carry
a litter a free stud dog act is to be granted. If the Female does not give
birth or carry a litter, then the owner of the stud dog must be advised
immediately. If the male is no longer available the owner of the female
must receive half of the stud dog fee. The stud dog owner must - if the
male has been barred from breeding entirely or for a limited time - reimburse
the owner of the female in full. The owner of the female must inform the
responsible breed warden about the stud dog act and the litter.
12. A female cannot keep more than 8 pups per litter - to rear on her own.
If there are more pups a surrogate dam must raise these. The organization
supports to this end in every region a surrogate dam (Amme) register. If
more than 8 pups are left with the mother, she cannot be used for another
breeding until 6 months have passed. The surrogate mother must be strong
and healthy and have good temperament. The surrogate mother may only have
6 pups, at the most and this including her own pups. I the surrogate mother
is not raising a litter of her own the pups from two different litters
may be given to her - but the pups must be marked such that they can be
identified. The breed warden must supervise the raising of the pups by
the surrogate mother and must confirm the proper identification of the
pups. At the latest the pups must be given to the surrogate mother on heir
10th day. The raising of the pups by the surrogate mother must be confirmed
by the responsible breed warden in writing on the litter registration report
that is with a surrogate dam confirmation form. The pups
raised by the surrogate dam must be marked with an A on the tattoo report
(form?)
Breeding a female or using a female that is in a false pregnancy - merely
for the purpose of using her as a surrogate dam is not permitted. If a
female has died beyond the 10th day (of life for the pups) the use of a
surrogate dam is allowed if the regional breed warden or the breed book
office has issued permission.
Pups that are deformed and those pups that do not seem to be able to survive
and compared to the littermates are less developed, regardless of the size
of the litter, are to be put down at the latest on the 11th day - this
only in a painless manner and with the attendance of a vet or professional
and under anesthesia. In special cases the main office must be contacted.
Any other manner of raising pups that deviates from the natural manner
is not admissible. Dewclaws (Wolfskrallen) must be removed in the first
week.
(Translator’s note: Rule has changed as of 2002; dewclaws no longer forbidden.)
On the 50th day (at the earliest) and after the first vaccination the pups
should be tattooed. The vaccination - performed by a vet — must be entered
on the litter registration form.
The first page of the vaccination passport must be identified with the
tattoo number. The tattooing can only be done at the breeder’s (or the
place of the person who raises the pups) and must include the whole litter.
After the 12th week pups must be placed under anaesthesia for the tattoos.
The pups must not be given away before they are tattooed. This (giving
the pups away) can only happen in so far as they are healthy and no infectious
diseases are present in the kennel. If pups have been raised by a surrogate
dam, then they must be brought back to the kennel for the tattooing. Bringing
back the pups to their mother from a surrogate dam can only happen
after the 6th week has been completed. If the pups are not tattooed immediately
after they have been returned the breeder must ensure the identity of the
dams and surrogate dams pups.
13.Every member must, even if he does not belong to a local club, notify
the breed warden of his area and the SV breed book office of stud services
performed by his male dog and also of any litters by the female dogs. For
stud services the owner of the male must note on the stud service card
(Deckkarte) the day of the breeding, the registered name of the male and
female including the owners’ names. For litters the breeder must note on
the litter registration form (Wurfmeldeschein) the date of birth, the name
of the sire, the name of the dam, the total number of pups born (listed
by sex) and the number that were left with the dam.
14. If a dog of another breed or a mixed dog has been with the mother,
regardless of whether he was the only stud dog or has performed this act
before or after a registered German shepherd dog (who is also in accordance
with the breed regulations of the SV) the litter is not seen as a pure
bred litter and therefore may not be registered with the breed book.
15.Owners of a female dogs must be made aware that females in heat are
to be kept safe, this from the beginning of the heat to its completion
(this can last three weeks or more) - in order to avoid unintentional breedings.
16.Every owner of a stud dog must give the owner of a female dog that has
been bred to the stud dog card/certificate (Deckschein).
The breeder must before and immediately after the litter is born inform
the breed warden. Before the litter is tattooed the litter registration
must be filled out (plus a copy for the breed warden, tattooer and breeder).
The request (for issuing pedigrees) with the required documentation must
be send to the main office by the breeder within 6 months. To this request
for pedigrees must be added: the papers for the female dog, (if a change
of ownership has occurred), the original certificate of breeding; note
I assume this to be the Deckschein)), litter registration (Wurfmeldeschein),
original tattoo certificate (Tätowierschein), the tattoo control slip
(Tätowierkontrollstreifen), and if necessary the certificate for the
surrogate dam. The buyers of the pups must - after the entry into the breed
book has been completed - be given the pedigree papers. But this only after
the breeder has verified that the pedigree papers are matched up with the
correct dog, that he has signed the papers, entered the name and address
of the new owner on page 4 and has signed as the seller of the dog.
17.Members who use the services of the SV (breed book office) are obligated
to allow the breed warden in their area or region to take a look at their
kennel. They must also give any desired information about their dogs, or
the record of stud dog usage (Sprüngbuch) or kennel book (Zwingerbuch),
to the breed warden in their area, their region or to any member of the
breed committee of the SV.
18.The breed warden also has authority over the kennels in his region whose
owners do not belong to a local club but are members of the SV. He is also
obligated to oversee the kennels of those members who are rearing (pups)
or training (dogs) and are being paid for this service.
19.There are no costs associated for members with the advice or supervision
of their kennel - any cash expenses related to this by the breed warden
however such as postage are to be reimbursed to the breed warden.
20.The office of the breed warden and the tattooer are honorary offices;
those expenses related to the execution of their office should be reimbursed
by the breeder.
21.Breed judges and performance judges as well as performance judge applicants
that live at the breed survey location or within the area are asked to
support the breed survey masters on a volunteer basis. The breed wardens
of the regions should if possible visit all the breed surveys in their
area. The breed wardens of the region should if possible attend all the
breed surveys in their area. The breed wardens of all the local clubs represented
at a given breed survey should be present at said breed survey in order
to be able to present information about the dogs from their clubs
shown at the survey.
22.The use and successes of breed-surveyed dogs should be reported by the
breed wardens at the annual reports to the regional breed warden. In this
context it should be emphasized which combination of lines has been especial
successful and which have not and also why.
Remarks and notices
The area of responsibility of the breed warden is determined by the regulations
of the appropriate region (place of residence or club membership of the
breeder).
Therefore it is possible that breed warden assistant are acting who are
not recorded with the main office via the region. Thus the club breed arden
should - if his assistant is active - co sign litter registrations that
have been signed by his assistant. If a breed warden and a breeder are
closely related, his assistant must register the litter.
If a breed warden is also the owner of the stud dog, then he cannot register
and supervise litters from his stud dog. The assistant breed warden, the
neighbouring club breed warden or the club chairperson must be responsible
for this. If the pups are raised by a surrogate dam who is outside of the
breed warden’s territory (for the breeder who owns the litter) the supervision
of the raising of the pups by the surrogate dam must be up to the breed
warden who supervises the territory that the surrogate dam resides in.
He will be responsible for adding a confirmation of the litter raised by
the surrogate dam and providing a report about the raising of the pups
by the surrogate dam and to add this information to the litter registration.
Before signing the litter registration (Wurfmeldeschein) the breed warden
should confirm all the statements made. This includes any change in ownership
of the female. If the breeder is not entered as the owner on the fourth
page of the papers, then this entry must be made. The breed warden should
- if it is suspected that the breed office does not know of this change
in ownership - confirm the change of ownership with a certified (by the
breed warden) copy of pedigree paper, which contains the change in ownership.
Before the litter registration documents are sent in, the tattooer must
sign the litter registration.
The verification of the trials, show registrations, breed surveys of the
female and if possible of the male should be conducted by looking at the
documentation and must not be forgotten.
Breed wardens are not authorized to allow deviations from the breed regulations
regardless of their nature. If they do so regardless they are held responsible
for this.
The authority of a breed warden does not automatically include that of
a young-dog evaluator. Only the regions may certify young-dog evaluators.
The region determines who can become a young dog evaluator.
2002:
SV Changes
From “Der Vorstand Informiert” (SV): Overview of the Year-2001 changes
to the breed regulations. Also published by the SV on their website in
German, of course. I have merely excerpted and roughly translated items
that I thought would be of interest to American and other English-speaking
fanciers of the GSD. In accordance with the demand from the national meeting,
the entire breed regulations were revised by the breed committee. Following
is a short overview of the most important changes to take effect on 1.1.2002:
Requirements for breeding
The AKZ titles (that allow a dog to qualify for use in breeding) must in
future be achieved under an SV judge. [This refers to dogs within Germany…
this statement has been misinterpreted as applying to foreign dogs. If
you don’t plan to send your dog to Germany for breeding, don’t worry about
it.]
Furthermore, dogs born after 1 July 1999 must have a DNA verification (proven
ancestry). Dogs that have been bred in a foreign country and are to be
used in breeding in Germany must also have the DNA verification regardless
of the date of birth. Blood samples will no longer be required — a cheek
swab, as is done in the U.S., will be acceptable. This can be done at the
time of tattooing, for example.
Frequency of the breeding use: The distribution of the maximum 90 matings
per calendar year [had been half in the first half of the year, the remainder
in the other half] with German-resident or foreign-resident bitches is
now at the option of the stud dog owner. However, the most matings in Germany
with domestic bitches that any dog may complete is 60 per calendar year.
Bitches now are allowed to nurse up to eight whelps (instead of the previous
six) in Germany. Breeders are supposed to secure a foster-mother (Ammenaufzucht)
for nursing any more than that.
Dogs not permitted to be used in breeding: Starting in 2002, Aufbeissen
in the area of all six incisors will result in said dog not being able
to be used in breeding. [This means that either overbite or pincer (level)
bite will no longer be tolerated; underbite (Bulldog style) of any degree
already had been a disqualification for show and breeding.] Any surgical
[alteration?] operations on the skeleton will result in the dog not being
permitted to be used in breeding and will also result in an internal investigation
into a possible infringement of the regulations. [It was not made clear
what exceptions might be allowed, such as removal of dewclaws, repair of
a bone broken in an accident, etc.]
Registrations
In case of a change in ownership of a dog, the buyer must henceforth also
sign, beside the seller’s signature, on the reverse of the Ahnentafel (official
pedigree). The seller of the dog is to immediately report changes in ownership
to the SV if it is not already known at the breed/studbook office, by means
of a proper litter registration document. The new owner also is to immediately
inform the SV of the change in accurate address.
The new form of the Ahnentafel has space for ten working-title tests on
the back page. A separate scorebook can be given out only if 10 trial results
already are entered. The records are to be filled out only by a schutzhund
judge or conformation judge.
The club has arranged a procedure for the fight against elbow dysplasia
on a voluntary basis as of 1-1-02. Breed Value Assessment (Zuchtwert numbers)
and the DNA procedures will continue to be published and promoted. The
health of the breed must not be compromised. President Messler is convinced
the reasons for the decline in registrations are related to Nachfrageverhalten,
which might be translated as “decreased demand”, [and which are probably
related to the adverse activities of the Green Party, other anti-dog activists,
and animal rights extremists.] It is not to be overlooked that the club
is finding itself in a phase of radical reorganization, Messler explained.
Acceptance by society regarding dogs and dog owners has been declining.
It is clear that the reshaping of the structure of clubs on a desirable
foundation is not yet completed.
In his analysis of the DNA process Messler said the percentage of erroneous
ancestry in the SV-registered dogs was "clearly negligible" in comparison
to positively identified animals eligible for breeding. The predominant
majority of the breeders have worked correctly in the past and without
DNA analysis, he said. Also, intention [to deceive] may not be immediately
assumed for each incorrect descent. [In my opinion, Messler added this
only partly because of the possibility of honest mistakes such as when
Heidi jumps over the fence to visit Rex instead of breeding to Prince,
and partly to protect the hide of influential, powerful breeders whose
names come up in the lists of “failures” in the DNA tests.] Regardless,
the SV have established new, high standards of excellence for worldwide
improvement of the breed by means of the DNA test process.
The vice president of the SV, Mr. Wolfgang Henke, said our most urgent
goal is to emphasize the meaning of the club and the breed. In the rest
of his activity in the past club year he named the SV as being the “first
agent” [guardian] for breed preservation. Henke reported on his many-faceted
activities in the service-dog area. He announced the winners of this year's
standard and international competition in the regional police schools for
service dog handlers and submitted to the victors their medals. [Because
of the greatly increased number of participants in the BSP, the police
dog competitions are now being held at a separate venue.... that’s the
official excuse, but actually, police departments have been switching over
to the Malinois instead of the GSD for their service dogs.]
Mr. Henke also mentioned his concern over developments in the USA, particularly
the announcement by the United Schutzhund clubs of America (USA), in the
middle of this year, their intention to issue "their own papers" [registrations
and pedigrees], as well as to introduce their own DNA procedures and Breed
Value (Zuchtwert) Assessment. Henkes is also convinced that the highest
interest would be to serve the German standards as the basis of successful
breeding.
Translated by:
Fred Lanting
SV Zuchtrichter
author
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11-01-2002
