German Shepherd Terminology

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April 9, 2023

German Shepherd Terminology

1. German Shepherds have specific terminology that is commonly used in the breed. Here are some key terms:

2. Schutzhund/IGP: A German sport that tests a dog’s obedience, tracking, and protection abilities. It is often used as a way to evaluate the working ability of German Shepherds.

3. Breed Standard: A set of guidelines for the physical appearance, temperament, and working ability of the German Shepherd breed, established by the breed’s governing organizations.

4. Gait: The movement of a dog, including the stride, cadence, and speed. The German Shepherd gait is described as smooth and effortless.

5. Conformation: The physical appearance of a dog, including its structure, shape, and size. German Shepherds are bred for specific conformation traits, such as a straight back and sloping rear.

6. Working Lines: German Shepherds bred for their working ability, such as police or military work, search and rescue, and Schutzhund/IPO.

7. Show Lines: German Shepherds bred for their appearance and conformation, primarily for use in dog shows and as companion animals.

8. Dam: The female parent of a litter of puppies.

9. Sire: The male parent of a litter of puppies.

10. Whelping: The process of giving birth to a litter of puppies.

11. Hip Dysplasia: A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, causing pain and mobility problems. Hip dysplasia is common in German Shepherds, and breeders often perform health screenings to reduce the risk of passing on the condition.

12. Understanding these terms can help you better communicate with breeders, trainers, and other German Shepherd enthusiasts, as well as make informed decisions when selecting a German Shepherd.

German Shepherd Show Terminology

In Germany, German Shepherds can earn various show titles that reflect their physical appearance, temperament, and working ability. Here are some key show titles terminology used in Germany:

1. V(Vorzüglich): The highest rating a dog can receive in a conformation show, indicating that the dog meets the breed standard in all aspects.

2. SG (Sehr Gut): The second-highest rating in a conformation show, indicating that the dog is very good and meets the breed standard in most aspects.

3. VA (Vorzüglich Auslese): A special title awarded to dogs that excel in both conformation and working ability.

4. IPO (Internationale Prüfungs-Ordnung): A title earned by dogs that pass the Schutzhund/IPO test, indicating that they have demonstrated high levels of obedience, tracking, and protection work.

5. FH (Fährtenhund): A title earned by dogs that pass the FH tracking test, indicating that they have demonstrated excellent tracking ability.

6. KKL (Körklasse): A breeding suitability rating based on the dog’s conformation and working ability, awarded after passing a temperament test and other evaluations.

7. AD (Ausdauerprüfung): A title earned by dogs that pass the endurance test, indicating that they have demonstrated high levels of physical fitness and stamina.

These show titles reflect the German Shepherd breed’s versatility, intelligence, and working ability, and can help breeders select dogs that meet the breed standard and excel in their intended role. It’s important to note that these titles are only earned after rigorous testing and evaluation, and not all dogs will achieve them.

Johan Cronje

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Dogs come into our lives to teach us about love; they depart to teach us about loss. A new dog never replaces an old dog. It merely expands the heart.

“Dogs come into our lives to teach us about love, they depart to teach us about loss. A new dog never replaces an old dog. It merely expands the heart.”