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 The
concept of a versatile hunting dog was developed in Germany in the early
1800's. By the early 1900's several breeds had been successfully created
to hunt various types of game. Unfortunately, after 100 years of careful
development the breeders began to shift their emphasis from performance to
appearance. A small group of men noticed a deterioration of performance
and banded together to form
Verein Deutsch Drahthaar (VDD). This club
initially accepted registrations of German Shorthair Pointers, Griffons, Pudel Pointers, and Stichelhaars. These four breeds, of similar heritage,
were selected for their versatile hunting ability, and for the ability to
capitalize on certain strengths, and compensate for certain weaknesses in
each other. Breeding for appearance was discouraged by creating a broad
standard which treats the sleek features of the German Shorthair and the
shaggy features of the Griffon as equally acceptable.
To further insure the continued quest for
improvement of performance, regulations were established which require
that all VDD
Drahthaars used for breeding must first meet certain field performance
standards. This evaluation of performance is conducted at
special field trails designed to demonstrate inherited qualities. The
first of 3 levels of these field trails is conducted during
the spring for the essentially untrained Drahthaar. This
Natural Ability Test (VJP) is designed to evaluate the young
Drahthaars inherited abilities in five different categories
(pointing, nose, tracking, search, and cooperation). Advanced Natural
Ability Tests (HZP) are conducted each fall for the 12-20 month old
Drahthaar. This test, for the 65-75% trained dog, again allows evaluation
of the five qualities listed above, and adds several demanding retrieving
tasks. Desire, obedience, and trainability are also important aspects of
the is evaluation. The ultimate field test for the 100% trained Drahthaar
is the Utility Test (VGP). This test allows evaluation in 26
categories, and 18 different hunting situations. Many think the abilities
of the VDD registered Drahthaar are phenomenal, but this should be
expected when you consider the discipline, care and dedication which has
gone into its development.
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