If you’ve ever thought of getting a purebred and wanted to even breed dogs yourself, you would have surely heard of the term pedigree. It sounds fancy, doesn’t it? But it is really just an important and very simple aspect of dog breeding. A pedigree is simply a family tree, stating the parents, grandparents, and sometimes great-grandparents of a dog.
Bringing home Max, my very first Labrador, was all about having a happy wagging tail awaiting me. Then, when I started thinking about finding a mate for him, I realized how little I knew of his background. It was at that moment when I started learning about pedigrees.
In Fact, Why Pedigrees?
Pedigrees are far more important than just being paper. They actually tell about the bloodline of a dog and assist breeders in making the right decision. It is likely that good traits will be passed down if the dog is bred from parents who are healthy and well-tempered. For example, a breeder who knows there is a problem in the bloodline can avoid certain crosses. For example, some of the big breeds deal with hip dysplasia. If it runs in the family, then it can be prevented in the next generation. Responsibility lies in doing what is right for the dogs.
More Than Just Lines
Pedigrees can sometimes seem like a crossword puzzle to the uninitiated. Names, titles, abbreviations-all over. But as you move along, it all becomes quite logical. You begin seeing something like CH for Champion and INT CH for International Champion. These designations inform about what the dog accomplished or whether the lineage is that strong.
I remember touching my very first pedigree sheet with my own hands. I felt lost. One of my backyard breeders took me by the hand, and just like that, it became a story of generations. I could envision the journey of dogs who won shows, passed health checks, and gave families joy.
The Heart Behind the History
Pedigrees also tell histories. Perhaps a champion show dog was a great-great-grandfather to your dog. Or perhaps her grandmother cut her teeth as a therapy dog. These little bits underline your connection with your pet.
When I found out Max’s grandfather was a guidedog, I was proud. It explained why Max was always so gentle with people requiring support. That made me love Max even more.
Being a Responsible Breeder
And so if you are thinking of breeding, consider pedigrees seriously. It is not just about getting cute puppies. It is about creating healthy dogs that live happy lives. Study the bloodlines. Talk to the experts. Always prioritize the welfare of the dogs.
Conclusion
It might seem a little complicated at the outset, but pedigrees are critical in providing a clue to where your dog may have originated and the likely course of a future generation. This can open a whole new world to a dog lover, owner, and would-be breeder.