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From GSDCA:
Another person interrupted with, "No, you're wrong. Prove it, or lose it."
That struck an interesting note with me.
The breed they were arguing about was meant to be a single purpose breed, so "proving" work ability is pretty straightforward. Since the GSD is meant to be a versatile, multi-purpose, utilitarian working dog, it leaves more grey area..... I see GSD litter advertisements fairly often that advertise the puppies as suitable prospects for such-and-such venue, even when neither sire, nor dam, nor handler, has ever set foot in the venue. In those cases, I admit to a pretty healthy dose of skepticism, until shown otherwise. A CGC doesn't prove competition obedience potential.... Rag play does not prove IPO suitability.... And the list could go on.
What, as a breeder or as a discerning buyer, would prove true versatility to you?
From FCI/SV:. It is poised, but when the occasion demands, eager and alert; both fit and willing to serve in its capacity as companion, watchdog, blind leader, herding dog, or guardian, whichever the circumstances may demand. The dog must not be timid, shrinking behind its master or handler; it should not be nervous, looking about or upward with anxious expression or showing nervous reactions, such as tucking of tail, to strange sounds or sights. Lack of confidence under any surroundings is not typical of good character.
Last week at training, some friends were talking about an upcoming litter. The phrase "Use it, or lose it" was thrown out, in regards to the working ability of sire & dam.UTILIZATION: Versatile working, herding and service dog.
Character
The German Shepherd Dog must be well-balanced (with strong nerves) in terms of character, self-assured, absolutely natural and (except for a stimulated situation) good-natured as well as attentive and willing to please. He must possess instinctive behaviour, resilience and self-assurance in order to be suitable as a companion, guard, protection, service and herding dog.
Another person interrupted with, "No, you're wrong. Prove it, or lose it."
That struck an interesting note with me.
The breed they were arguing about was meant to be a single purpose breed, so "proving" work ability is pretty straightforward. Since the GSD is meant to be a versatile, multi-purpose, utilitarian working dog, it leaves more grey area..... I see GSD litter advertisements fairly often that advertise the puppies as suitable prospects for such-and-such venue, even when neither sire, nor dam, nor handler, has ever set foot in the venue. In those cases, I admit to a pretty healthy dose of skepticism, until shown otherwise. A CGC doesn't prove competition obedience potential.... Rag play does not prove IPO suitability.... And the list could go on.
What, as a breeder or as a discerning buyer, would prove true versatility to you?