Understanding Linebreeding: With Example of VA1 Zamp vom Thermodos and VA1 Jeck vom Noricum

 

The world sieger VA1 Zamp vom Thermodos was linebred (5 - 4) on the earlier the world sieger VA1 Jeck vom Noricum.

• What does these numbers (5 - 4) denotes?
• What is the possibility that Zamp will get certain traits transfused from Jeck? 
  

The numbers (5-4) in dog linebreeding refer to how many generations back a common ancestor appears in a dog’s family tree. In this case, Zamp vom Thermodos is linebred on Jeck vom Noricum, meaning:

• 5: Jeck shows up in the 5th generation on one side of Zamp's family tree.
• 4: Jeck appears in the 4th generation on the other side.

 

What Does 5-4 Linebreeding Mean?

Linebreeding is a strategy breeders use to enhance the genetic influence of a specific ancestor, in this case, Jeck vom Noricum. It’s a type of mild inbreeding meant to increase the chances that Zamp will inherit desirable traits from Jeck.

The closer the numbers, the more likely it is that the ancestor’s traits will show up in the offspring. A 5-4 linebreeding is moderate, meaning Jeck’s influence is noticeable but not as strong as if he appeared in closer generations (like 2-3 or 3-3 linebreeding).

 

Chances of Zamp Inheriting Traits from Jeck:

Because Jeck appears in both the 4th and 5th generations of Zamp’s lineage, there’s a moderate chance Zamp inherited traits from Jeck. However, since these generations are somewhat far back, the probability isn’t as high as if Jeck was closer in the family tree.

Several factors affect this:

• Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI): This measures how much genetic material Zamp might have inherited from Jeck. In this case, Jeck’s genetic contribution to Zamp is about 3.125%.
• Additive Effects: Traits are influenced by multiple genes, so even if Zamp inherited certain genes from Jeck, they may interact with genes from other ancestors and affect how the traits show up.
• Dominant vs. Recessive Traits: If Jeck had dominant traits, they would have a higher chance of being expressed in Zamp. Recessive traits would only show if Zamp inherited two copies of the gene.

 

Summary of Genetic Influence:

• Genetic Contribution: Jeck’s genetic contribution to Zamp is about 3.125%, due to the 5-4 linebreeding.
• Traits: Zamp has a moderate chance of inheriting traits from Jeck, especially in terms of conformation, temperament, health, and working ability, depending on what Jeck was known for.

 

Linebreeding like this is used to keep desirable traits in the bloodline while avoiding the risks of closer inbreeding, maintaining a balance of genetic influence from an important ancestor without losing too much diversity.

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The Importance of Genetic Diversity in German Shepherd Dogs - An Awareness Post For The Protection of the GSD Breed

Genetic diversity is all about the variation in genes and genotypes (genetic traits) within a population. When we talk about the German Shepherd breed, “Genetic diversity” means the variety found among individual dogs in terms of their genetics. This diversity shows up in several ways, including coat color, size, temperament, and health.

1. Coat Colors: German Shepherds come in various colors, like black and tan, sable, solid black, and white. These differences come from unique combinations of genes that affect their fur.

2. Physical Build: There’s also a range in size and body shape. Some German Shepherds are lean and athletic, while others may be bulkier. These differences are tied to genetic factors that influence growth and muscle development.

3. Temperament: Genetic diversity affects behavior too. While German Shepherds are generally known for their intelligence and trainability, individual personalities can vary a lot. This affects how suited they are for roles like family pets or working dogs.

4. Health and Disease Resistance: A varied gene pool is important for health. It helps reduce the chances of hereditary diseases, such as hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy. A limited gene pool can increase the likelihood of these health issues.

5. Performance Traits: There’s also a difference between working lines and show lines in terms of genetic traits. Working lines tend to excel in agility and stamina, while show lines focus more on physical appearance and conformation.
 

 
Connection to Popular Sire Syndrome

"Popular Sire syndrome" is when a few male dogs are heavily used for breeding, which can reduce genetic diversity within the breed, including German Shepherds.

1. Limited Gene Pool: When only a few sires are chosen for their standout traits (like championship titles), their genes become dominant in future generations. This reduces genetic variation, leading to many puppies sharing similar genetic traits.

2. Increased Uniformity: With fewer sires, the overall genetic diversity decreases. While certain traits might become more pronounced, other beneficial traits can be lost.
 

 
Consequences of Reduced Genetic Diversity

1. Higher Disease Risk: A smaller gene pool can lead to more hereditary health problems. Common issues in German Shepherds, like hip dysplasia, might become more widespread due to this lack of variation.

2. Loss of Adaptability: Genetic diversity is key for a breed's ability to adapt. A narrower gene pool can mean losing traits that could be helpful in specific situations, including various temperamental traits for different roles.

3. Compromised Breeding Practices: Relying too much on popular sires can negatively affect breeding practices. Breeders may focus on short-term desirable traits instead of long-term genetic health, overlooking the importance of diversity. This means, the focus on a popular stud can result in a lack of attention to diversity in breeding selections.

4. Behavioral Consistency: Less genetic diversity can lead to more uniform behavior within the breed. While some consistency is good, it can limit the variety of temperamental traits beneficial for different roles, whether for work or companionship.

To summarize, maintaining genetic diversity is crucial for the health and longevity of German Shepherds. It promotes resilience to diseases, encourages a range of traits, and ensures the breed can thrive in various environments and roles. Responsible breeding, including careful sire selection, is essential to counter the effects of popular sire syndrome and keep the gene pool healthy.

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Glossary of German Shepherd Dog Titles and Terms Related to Working Tests

This glossary outlines key titles and terms related to German Shepherd Dog training and evaluation in working tests. It includes definitions for various tests, such as the AD (endurance test) and BH (Companion Dog test), which serve as prerequisites for higher titles. Notable titles like SchH (Schutzhund) encompass tracking, obedience, and protection, while others like IPO (International Prüfungsordnung) focus on international working tests. Additionally, terms such as TSB (drive and stress handling) and CGC (Canine Good Citizen) highlight essential behavioral assessments. Understanding these terms is crucial for recognizing the training and evaluation standards within the working line German Shepherd community.

• a (ausgeprägt): Pronounced. Used by judges to describe a dog’s courage and "hardness" (see TSB).

• AD (Ausdauerprüfung): This is an endurance test performed by gaiting approximately 6 to 10 miles per hour for about 12 miles. There is a rest period of 10 minutes halfway through. This test includes a simple obedience test at the end. The AD is a prerequisite for a Körung evaluation. This endurance title is applicable to German Shepherds and other breeds tested between the ages of 16 months and 6 years.

• AZG (Arbeitsgemeinschaft der Zuchtveriene und Gebrauchshundeverbände): Association of breed registry and working-dog sport clubs. The AZG aims to administer uniform international Schutzhund rules via the FCI, ensuring inter-club and international conformity, which facilitates identical or similar international trial competitions in many countries.

• B: Equivalent to a BH but awarded in the US.

• BH (Begleithundprüfung): Companion Dog. This is the preliminary and prerequisite test for a dog aiming to earn Schutzhund titles. It combines traffic/temperament and obedience tests.

• BSP (Bundes SiegerPrüfung): This is the German National Working German Shepherd Dog Championship, an annual Schutzhund competition held at the national level.

• CD: Companion Dog. An obedience title offered by the AKC. The dog must pass this test three times before receiving the title, with each pass referred to as a "leg." This is a primary obedience degree earned from the Novice class.

• CDX: Companion Dog Excellent. This is a higher obedience degree offered by the AKC, awarded for achieving a qualifying score three separate times in the Open class.

• CGC (Canine Good Citizen): A temperament test designed to demonstrate a dog’s ability to behave properly in social situations. This title is awarded by the AKC.

• FH (Fahrtenhund): The most advanced tracking title awarded by the SV.

• GHKL (Gebrauchshundklasse): Working Dog Class. For dogs 2 years or older with a working title (the dog must possess at least a SchH1 or a comparable working title to be shown in this class. A Kkl is not necessary to show in the working class). This is the Open Class at the Sieger Show for dogs over 2 years old.

• HGH (Herdengebrauchshund): Herding Dog title.

• IPO (International Prüfungsordnung): International working tests consisting of three classes (I, II, III), similar to Schutzhund.

• ng (nicht genügend): Insufficient. This term is used by judges to describe a dog’s courage and "hardness."

• PH (Polizei Hund): Police Dog title.

• RTD: Registered Therapy Dog.

• SchH (Schutzhund): Protection Dog. This title incorporates tracking, obedience, and protection in three classes or levels: SchH I, SchH II, SchH III. SchH equivalents include ZVV, SVV, IPO, VH, and others.

• SAR: Search and Rescue title.

• TD (Tracking Dog): A tracking title offered by the AKC. This test assesses a dog’s scenting and tracking abilities.

• TDX (Tracking Dog Excellent): An advanced degree of tracking offered by the AKC.

• TSB (Triebveranlung, Selbstsicherheit und Belastbarkeit): Drive, self-confidence, and ability to handle stress (adaptability to stressful situations). This is related to the courage test. Ratings are “pronounced,” “sufficient,” or "insufficient."

• TT (Temperament Test): Awarded by the American Temperament Test Society (ATTS).

• UD (Utility Dog): This title is awarded by the AKC after a dog receives three qualifying scores in the Utility class.

• UDX (Utility Dog Excellence): An advanced title in the Utility class.

• VPG: Three levels of working degrees equivalent to the SchH and IPO titles.

• WUSV (Weltunion der Schäferhundvereine): World German Shepherd Dog Schutzhund Championship, where teams from over 100 countries compete annually.

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Glossary of German Shepherd Dog Titles and Terms Related to Dog Breeding Acronyms

 This dictionary outlines key terms and acronyms related to dog breeding, particularly for German Shepherds. It includes ratings for hip evaluations, such as "a-stamp" for acceptable hips and various classifications like KKL1 and KKL2 for breeding suitability. Breeding categories are defined, including Utility Dog Breeding (GZ) and Performance Breeding (LZ), with specific requirements for parentage. The document also explains terms like Körung (breed survey) and Zuchtwert (breed value), emphasizing the importance of selecting breeding partners based on genetic health, particularly hip scores. Overall, it serves as a comprehensive guide for breeders and enthusiasts in the field.

• A a-stamp: The "a" stamp indicates that the hips of a dog have been evaluated and fall within limits considered acceptable for breeding.

• "a" normal: Certified normal hips, required for a dog to pass a breed survey.

• "a" fast normal: Certified near-normal hips.

• "a" noch zugelassen: Hips are still permissible for breeding.

• “a” 1 HD normal: The best hip rating possible from the SV.

• “a” 2 HD fast normal: Near-normal hips.

• “a” 3 HD noch zugelassen: Hips are still acceptable for breeding.

• "a"-Ausland: HD certification passed in another country rather than Germany.

• EZ (Einfache Zucht): Simple Breeding. Only one parent has a working degree.

• GZ (Gebrauchshundzucht): Utility Dog Breeding. Both parents have working titles.

• Kennels von Lotta: German Shepherd breeder.

• KKL1 (Körklasse 1): Especially recommended for breeding.

• KKL2 (Körklasse 2): Suitable for breeding.

• KLZ (Kör- und Leistungszucht): Qualification and Performance Breeding. Both parents have Körung, and all four grandparents have working titles.

• Körbericht: Judge's comments during the Körung test.

• köred: Breed surveyed.

• Körung: SV breed survey. The purpose of the breed survey for German Shepherds is to select dogs from the breeding registry that excel in character, performance, and anatomical construction, thus aiding in the conservation and improvement of the breed.

• KZ (Körzucht): Qualification Breeding. Both parents have Körung.

• Lbz (Lebenszeit): Breed surveyed for a lifetime. The result of a Breed Survey (Körklasse) is valid for life, usually after the second breed survey.

• LZ (Leistungszucht): Performance Breeding. Both parents and all four grandparents have working titles.

• NZB (Nachzucht Bewertung): Progeny evaluation.

• vom = von der (Ger.): From the.

• Z (Züchter): Breeder.

• ZW (Zuchtwert): An estimated breed value. This helps breeders make informed selections of breeding partners for their dogs based on their hip status. A breed value of 100 is typical for the German Shepherd Dog breed. GSD breeders should aim to produce offspring with breed values less than 100.

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Glossary of German Shepherd Dog Titles and Terms Related Dog Show

 This dictionary provides essential acronyms related to dog shows and tests, primarily for German Shepherds. It includes ratings like A (sufficient), G (good), and V (excellent), along with various classes such as IPO, JKL (young dog class), and M (faulty). Key terms like VA (excellent select) and WUSV (world union of German Shepherd clubs) are defined, alongside disqualification indicators (Disq) and performance ratings (U for unsatisfactory). Each entry clarifies the dog's qualifications and achievements, showcasing the structured evaluation system in competitive dog events. This comprehensive glossary is invaluable for understanding the terminology used in dog shows.

• A (Ausreichend): Sufficient show or performance rating.

• BSZS (BundesSiegerZuchtSchau): SV German National conformation show—an annual international championship for the German Shepherd Dog held in Germany (Sieger Show).

• Disq (Disqualifiziert): Disqualified.

• G (Gut): Good show or performance rating.

• H (Hündin): Bitch.

• IPO: International title equivalent to Schutzhund, with three levels: IPO I, IPO II, IPO III.

• JKL (Jugendklasse): The 12-18 month young dog class at the Sieger Show.

• JHKL (Junghundklasse): The 18-24 month young dog class at the Sieger Show.

• Lebenszeit: Breed surveyed for lifetime.

• LP (Less Promising): The 3-12 month young dog show rating.

• M (Mangelhaft): Faulty show or performance rating.

• NP (Not Promising): Awarded in Puppy Class.

• P (Promising): Dog show rating.

• Puppy Class: Age groups 4-6 months, 6-9 months, and 9-12 months.

• R (Rüde): Male dog.

• SG (Sehr Gut): Very Good. This is the highest possible show rating a dog can obtain in the Youth Class or Young Dog Class (dogs under 2 years old). It is also a SchH rating awarded to dogs scoring 90-95 points out of 100 in SchH trials/competitions.

• SGR (Sieger or Siegerin): Highest placed dog title at the German Sieger Show.

• T1, T2, T3, or T4: Remarks indicating the dog is removed from further participation in the Sieger Show due to TSB failings. Each number indicates the reason for removal.

  • T1: Indicates that even though the dog demonstrated "pronounced" TSB, it did not release on command during the courage test (did not "Out").

  • T2: TSB vorhanden (Ger.)—TSB "sufficient" but not enough to continue in the competition.

  • T3: TSB nicht genügend (Ger.)—TSB "insufficient."

  • T4: The dog is removed from further participation due to lack of obedience or control (failed all three attempts to heal to the blind).

• U (Ungenügend): Unsatisfactory show or performance rating. No grading given.

• V (Vorzüglich): Excellent show or performance rating.

• VA (Vorzüglich Auslese): Excellent Select show rating at Sieger Show; the highest award obtainable by a German show dog, typically awarded to 9-12 male and female dogs each year.

• Vdh (Verband für das Deutsche Hundewesen e.V): The German Kennel Club.

• VP (Very Promising): The 3-12 month young dog show rating.

• WUSV (Welt Union der Schäferhundvereine): World Union of German Shepherd Clubs.

• ZB (Zuchtbewertung): Show rating.

• Zuchtschau: The conformation specialty show.

• ZW (Zuchtwert): Breed value—a number assigned that indicates the genotype of the dog for breeding purposes.

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Glossary of GSD Dogs Clubs & Organization Acronyms

 This dictionary outlines key acronyms for organizations related to German Shepherd Dogs (GSD). It includes the American German Shepherd Dog Charitable Foundation (AGSDCF), which funds health research, and the American German Shepherd Rescue Association (AGSRA), focused on protecting GSDs from abuse and neglect. The American Working Dog Federation (AWDF) strengthens working breeds, while DVG (Deutscher Verband der Gebrauchshundsportvereine) is the oldest Schutzhund training organization. Additional clubs include the German Shepherd Dog Club of America (GSDCA), the German Shepherd Dog Club of India (GSDCI), and the United Schutzhund Clubs of America (USA). The WUSV represents the global community of GSD clubs.

• AGSDCF - American German Shepherd Dog Charitable Foundation, Inc. This non-profit organization is devoted exclusively to funding research projects related to the health of the German Shepherd Dog breed.

• AGSRA - American German Shepherd Rescue Association, Inc. Founded as a fundraising group, the AGSRA operates programs to protect German Shepherd Dogs from abuse, cruelty, homelessness, ignorance, neglect, and misuse.

• AWDF - American Working Dog Federation. Established in 1989, this organization aims to strengthen working breeds in the United States, including German Shepherds, Malinois, Boxers, American Bulldogs, Dobermans, Rottweilers, Bouviers, Schnauzers, and American Staffordshire Terriers.

• DVG - Deutscher Verband der Gebrauchshundsportvereine (Germany). DVG is the oldest and largest Schutzhund training organization in the world. Founded in 1903, it was Germany's first police and service dog club and now has nearly 30,000 members.

• GSDCA - German Shepherd Dog Club of America.

• GSDCI - German Shepherd Dog Club of India.

• GSDCA-WDA - The German Shepherd Dog Club of America - Working Dog Association, Inc. The WDA provides enthusiasts with a framework for activities in the United States, patterned after those available to the worldwide GSD community.

• SV - Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde e. V. (Germany). This is the main (original) GSD club and breed registry based in Germany.

• USCA - United Schutzhund Clubs of America. The USCA is dedicated to protecting and preserving the German Shepherd Dog's working heritage through Schutzhund training.

• WUSV - World Union of German Shepherd Dog Clubs.

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Factors For The Decline in GSD Population in The UK - A 2017 Study And The Data Driven Conclusion

The German Shepherd Dog breed has been widely popular across the globe since the very beginning. Especially post the World War II the breed popularity got a big spike and the GSD become one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. The popularity of this breed was also at its zenith in the UK.

This article describes a study conducted by Dr. Dan G. O’Neill, Dr. Noel Robin Coulson, Dr. David B. Church and Dr. Dave C. Brodbelt to identify the specific factors responsible for the decline in the population of GSD breed in the UK. The study was published on July 28, 2017. This was the largest study ever till 2017 and it was aimed at evaluating the veterinary clinical records (VetCompass data) to identify the factors that contributed the mortality rate of the GSD breed in the UK till 2017.

Note: The study still remains relevant today, because the factors that the study had explored continue to endure.

The study included all dogs under veterinary care during 2013 withing the database of Veterinary Companion Animal Surveillance System project (VetCompass). All relevant data pertaining to the demographic, mortality and clinical diagnosis on GSDs were extracted and reported had come from the VetCompass records. The total sample size of the German Shepherd Dogs recorded was 12,146 (2.7%) of the 455,557 GSDs in the VetCompass database.


Findings of the Research:

1) GSDs dropped from 3.5% of the annual birth cohort in 2005 to 2.2% in 2013.
2) The median longevity of GSDs was 10.3 years


Factors:

1) The most common causes of death: Musculoskeletal disorder (16.3%) and inability to stand (14.9%).
2) The most prevalent disorders recorded: Otitis externa (7.89%), osteoarthritis (5.54%), diarrhoea (5.24%), overweight/obesity (5.18%) and aggression (behavioral) (4.76%).
3) Aggression was more prevalent in males (6.75%) than females (2.78%)


What all were the reasons to conduct this study?

Over some decades till 2017, it was strangely noticed that demand of specific characteristics in the show-rings had been an instigating factor that influenced the breeders to design breeding programs in such a way that it started changing the overall conformation of the dogs that sparked some debate about the overall health of the breed. Between a span of 2005 and 2017 the yearly KC registrations for GSDs in the UK had dropped sharply.

GSD were initially bred as medium-sized dogs to meet their original purpose of herding (which was why the UK Kennel Club (KC) classified the breed under Pastoral groups). But over the period of time with the demand for the change in the characteristics and traits (shift from original herding purpose), there had been an eventual and consistent phenotypic shift. The continued favoritism for traits deemed preferred in the show rings, had a continuous adversely influence on the breed conformation. The focus of breeding German Shepherd Dogs totally shifted the dogs were specifically bred for show purposes. Hence the breeder continued to selectively breed GSD to get the characteristics favored in the show rings, Not for herding.

There was widespread expression of concern for the health and welfare of the GSD breed. The UK Kennel Club's (KC) Breed Watch system classified the GSD as a Category Three breed. Categorizing the breed as s Category Three breed necessitated close monitoring and additional support owing to the breed's increased susceptibility to certain health issues linked to exaggerated conformation. Identified Breed Watch concerns encompass traits such as cow hocks, excessive turn of stifle, nervous temperament, sickle hock, and weak hindquarters.

The condition has worsened at a global level - even beyond the UK. Even today the situation has not improved.

About VetCompass 

The Veterinary Companion Animal Surveillance System (VetCompass™) is an initiative focused on improving companion animal health. This not-for-profit research project is part of, and wholly owned by, The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) and aims to investigate the range and frequency of companion animal health problems and identify important risk factors for the most common disorders.   

About the Researchers

Dr. Dan G. O’Neill: Associate Professor Companion Animal Epidemiology (Pathobiology and Population Health), The Royal Veterinary College

Dr Noel Robin Coulson: BVetMed MRCVS, The Royal Veterinary College. Veterinary Surgeon at Wendover Heights Veterinary Centre Ltd. 

Dr. David B. Church: Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College

Dr. Dave C. Brodbelt: Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College

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