What a pedigree tells you
A pedigree lists ancestry, titles, health scores and registration numbers across three to five generations. Read it for patterns: repeated titles indicate consistent working ability; repeated health scores indicate a breeder who screens; the same dog appearing multiple times indicates line breeding.
Titles and what they mean
IGP (formerly IPO/Schutzhund) tests tracking, obedience and protection. KNPV is the Dutch practical police programme and is arguably the toughest. Mondioring emphasises control under elaborate distraction. Service records from police or military units indicate operational capability rather than sport ability.
- IGP1–3: tracking, obedience, protection phases
- KNPV PH1/PH2: practical Dutch police certification
- Mondioring 1–3: high-distraction control work
- Körung / breed survey: German breed suitability assessment
Line breeding and diversity
Line breeding concentrates traits by repeating a strong ancestor, which increases predictability but also risk. Reputable breeders monitor the coefficient of inbreeding and outcross deliberately to maintain vigour.
Marketing language to distrust
'Champion bloodlines' with no titles listed, 'imported parents' with no country or kennel named, and 'working line' without a single working qualification in three generations all mean nothing. Ask for the paperwork; genuine breeders supply it immediately.