Wow David that is a loaded question.
First you can look up ZW numbers on the SV website. http://www.schaeferhunde.de/site/index.php?id=688
I think, dogs that were imported to the US, the ZW number doesn't get updated unless the have a litter that is registered with the SV and the litter when old enough are Xrayed and submitted to the SV for certification. I might be wrong and if I am Chris or someone will straighten me out.
The a1 (a-normal) verses the a2 (fast normal) to me isn't as simple as just looking at the particular rating for the dog. I want to know what is behind it and also siblings and half siblings. I would always prefer the a1 on the hips and normal elbows. Elbows to me are every bit as important as hips. But I would and will look at an a2 (fast normal) and check the pedigree and see if I am comfortable or not, this can be different depending on if you are buying a pup in hopes of a future breeding prospect or a great companion and some sport type work.
Val
First you can look up ZW numbers on the SV website. http://www.schaeferhunde.de/site/index.php?id=688
I think, dogs that were imported to the US, the ZW number doesn't get updated unless the have a litter that is registered with the SV and the litter when old enough are Xrayed and submitted to the SV for certification. I might be wrong and if I am Chris or someone will straighten me out.
The a1 (a-normal) verses the a2 (fast normal) to me isn't as simple as just looking at the particular rating for the dog. I want to know what is behind it and also siblings and half siblings. I would always prefer the a1 on the hips and normal elbows. Elbows to me are every bit as important as hips. But I would and will look at an a2 (fast normal) and check the pedigree and see if I am comfortable or not, this can be different depending on if you are buying a pup in hopes of a future breeding prospect or a great companion and some sport type work.
Val