Big Dogs

The Importance Of Getting A Certificate Of Pedigree For Your Dog

When you buy your large breed puppy the breeder should be able to provide you with a certificate of pedigree and also a form enabling you to transfer his ownership into your name with your national kennel club. It is important that you receive these documents and effect the transfer. If you fail to do this you might run into several problems which includes the following: If you want to enter the puppy in shows; if you want to breed from your female dog; or if you want to offer your dog for stud purposes.

You should ask the breeder about the puppy's worming program and whether he has had his series of shots. A reputable breeder will not object to the purchase being made subject to a veterinary examination. In fact, most breeders will be happy to provide such a service as they value the good name of their kennels. If the breed is found to be unfit, he should be returnable to the source of purchase for a full refund of the money paid. However, a veterinary certificate stating the reason for return must be produced.

It is a common mistake to think that because a dog has a certificate of pedigree he can be termed a show dog and that he is likely to win prizes. A certificate of pedigree only proves that the dog is the offspring of a male and a female dog of the same breed with a bloodline that can be traced back for some generations. Each pure bred type of dog has what is known as a Breed Standard laid down by his national kennel club. The Standard clearly states those characteristics and physical attributes which add up to a perfect specimen of the breed, for instance, the desired temperament, coat color and texture, height, weight and other points.

The dog which conforms most exactly, in both temperament and appearance, with his Breed Standard will be picked out by an experienced judge in the show ring. Most pure bred dogs are not show dogs. This does not mean that they are not good examples of their breed but

simply that they may be a fraction too large or too small, have a tail which is set too high or too low or are mis-marked. Such variations from the Standard will bar the dog from successfully competing against his fellows. If you want a show dog the breeder will pick out a promising show prospect for you, but keep in mind that a puppy's development cannot be forecast with any degree of certainty until he is six months old.

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