Breeding Regulations

In an effort to protect the health and breed type, we use similar regulations for breeding to those used in The Netherlands. We also add the importance of checking for elbow dysplasia, as the broad chest in the breed can contribute to higher incidences of ED if not monitored.

Dr. Megan Hilf, Cindy Pfister, Lee Brewer, Susie Nies, Theresa Einboden and Lori Raymond

Taking an Inventory –  Measurements –  Photos

Breeding Advice –  Whelping Manual –  Raising a Stabyhoun Puppy — Booklet

WHY DO WE HAVE RULES?

Within our organization, we have a number of rules that males and females have to meet to be allowed to breed. These rules are there to ensure that the pups are born as healthy as possible and also to maintain genetic variety for the future well-being of the breed. Below, we will first mention the requirements that your dog or bitch must meet, then an explanation is given for these requirements and how to proceed. The Breeding Advisory Committee (BAC) is responsible for the maintenance of these regulations.

Our goal is to protect and advance the current standard of the breed as approved by the Dutch Stabyhoun Association and adopted by the FCI (Federation Cynologique Internationale) as the only standard of excellence by which the Stabyhoun shall be judged. The club will do all possible to safeguard and improve the health of the Stabyhoun.

THE REGULATIONS

— see our Code of Ethics for the complete rules.

• •          —  a Passing Hip rating from the OFA or equivalent organization
  •          —  a Passing Elbow rating from the OFA or equivalent organization
  •          —  Health and Measurement Inventory taken
  •          —  2 evaluations equivalent to a Very Good or Excellent by two different FCI Judges qualified for Stabys or by the BAC committee
  •          —  A temperament evaluation
  •          — Various other criteria based on age and inbreeding guidelines are included in the full Code of Ethics.

EXPLANATION OF RULES

HD REVIEW

Radiological research on Hip dysplasia is required for breeding. Dogs may be bred with the HD results A and B (Excellent, Good and Fair) in any combination, whereas HD C (Borderline, Mild) can only be coupled to HD A. Official HD radiographs must be made, preferably by a vet with experience in this field. We recommend that the photographs be taken without sedation or anesthesia if possible, because if natural muscle tone is absent it may affect the evaluation of the connection of the femoral head in the acetabulum.

ED REVIEW

Radiological research on Elbow dysplasia is required for breeding. Dogs may be bred with the ED results of Normal and Grade 1 or 2.

Studies have shown the inherited polygenetic traits causing these etiologies are independent of one another. Clinical signs involve lameness which may remain subtle for long periods of time. No one can predict at what age lameness will occur in a dog due to a large number of genetic and environmental factors such as degree of severity of changes, rate of weight gain, amount of exercise, etc. Subtle changes in gait may be characterized by excessive inward deviation of the paw which raises the outside of the paw so that it receives less weight and distributes more mechanical weight on the outside (lateral) aspect of the elbow joint away from the lesions located on the inside of the joint. Range of motion in the elbow is also decreased.

INVENTORY

In a survey, your dog is measured on all sides: height, body length, the dimensions of the head, the circumference of the chest and leg length. His weight is quoted (please do this at home just before the survey). In addition, the dog is observed and described: forehead, nose, teeth, eyes, ears, fur, tail, body, legs and gait. You will be asked a number of questions about the health of your dog and whether there have been problems. We inquire about his living habits, training and food. Finally, you describe the nature and behavior of your dog. Altogether this takes about half an hour. If there is an opportunity, a few pictures of your dog are also taken.

The data obtained along with any photographs are entered into our database ZooEasy so that, together with all other known data, a picture of the dog can be formed. The data is also interesting for those wishing to breed. Your dog (or the lineage behind him) gives a more complete picture of how the pups may inherit certain characteristics.

SHOW QUALIFICATIONS

A dog that is bred should meet the desired breed characteristics. To ensure this, your Stabyhoun needs to be evaluated twice and receive a review of Very Good or Excellent under two different qualified judges. One of these qualifications must be achieved after the age of 15 months. Many people are intimidated by shows, but in the relaxed atmosphere of our clubmatches and specialties, it is easy and fun to do.

If it is not possible to attend the shows due to distance, the BAC committee can do an evaluation through a visit, photos, and video. A majority of the committee must agree on the evaluation and nothing above a VG will be given without a judge confirmation.