Q:What's the SV?
A:The "Verein Fur Deutsche Shaferhunde" or SV, is a single-breed registry and the parent club for German Shepherd Dogs. The SV is responsible for the Standard, and the rules for the process of the classification of the breed. In addition, the SV sets the procedures and regulations or "Korordnung" for the breed survey.

All SV rules and requirements are acknowledged and followed by the German clubs (VDH) and international clubs (FCI), including clubs in the United States for German Shepherd Dogs from foreign bloodlines.

Conceived in 1899, the German Shepherd Dog breed standard was drawn up following suggestions by A. Meyer and Max von Stephanitz, for the structure, temperament, and character. Beginning with Watchdogs, and a planned breeding program based on this standard, the club was established with the goal of producing a high performance working dog.

Q: What is the "Korordnung"?
A:"Korordnung" are the breed survey regulations of the SV. Their purpose is to set the requirements for selection from the breed registry of the SV, a number of dogs that in their character, performance, and anatomical construction appear suitable for the conservation and improvement of the breed. Only such dogs are sanctioned for breeding, and only their off-spring are allowed to be shown, titled,
and registered with the SV.

Q:What is the Standard established by the SV?
A:

The German Shepherd Dog (GSD) that corresponds to the Standard offers the observer a picture of rugged strength, intelligence and agility, whose overall proportions are neither in excess or deficient in any way.

The way that he moves and behaves leaves no doubt that he is sound in mind and body and possesses physical and mental traits that render possible an ever-ready working dog with great stamina.

With an effervecent temperament, the dog must be cooperative adapting to every situation, and take to work willingly and joyfully. He must show courage and hardness as the situation requires defending his handler and his property but otherwise being a fully attentive, obedient and pleasant household companion. He should be devoted to his familiar surroundings, above all to other animals and children, and composed in his conduct with people. All in all, he gives a harmonious picture of natural nobility and self-confidence.
(from: The FCI Breed Standard-The World Union of German Shepherd Dog Clubs WUSV; translated by judge Fred Lanting, 1998)

Q:What is Schutzhund?
A:Schutzhund is a German word that refers to a sport that focuses on
developing and evaluating those traits in German Shepherd Dogs that make them more useful and happier companions to their owners.

The Schutzhund Breed Evaluation, was developed to demonstrate the strong partnership between humankind and dog. As a working trial, Schutzhund measures the dog's mental stability, structural efficiencies, ability to scent, willingness to work, courage, confidence, and trainability.

The Schutzhund titles received at these trials (SchH I, SchH II, SchH III,) recognize both the human's ability to train, and the dog's ability to perform as required.

On the field, the sport offers an opportunity for dog owners to train their dogs. It is a sport enjoyed by persons of varied professions, ages, and conditions of life, even those with significant disabilities, who join together in camaraderie based on their common interest in working with their dogs. Often, it is a family sport.

Q:What is an "a" designation?
A:

In order to show and breed, a German Shepherd Dog must receive this "a" stamp for its hip structure. This designation is issued after evaluation of x-ray of the dog's hips, conducted after one year of life, and must show structurally perfect hips. German Shepherd Dogs are only recognized by the SV if they have this designation, registration papers/pedigree, a Schutzhund One title, an AD (endurance test), and a minimum quality evaluation of "Good", earned at a Sieger (champion) Show - under an SV Schutzhund