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What in the world does KKL mean when it follows a dog's name? and what is the difference between KKL1 and KKL2? also are the words lbz or lebens important as part of the KKL designation?
Is any of this information valuable to me as a prospective puppy buyer?
Well, it is very important and valuable to you.
We will discuss what is involved in getting the KKL or Breed Survey, but the bottom line is that you have a much better chance of getting a sound puppy in structure, workability and temperament from a Breed Surveyed sire and dam. The Breed Survey (Körung in German) is indicated by KKL1 or KKL2 after a dog's name and titles. It is a demanding examination of a dog's suitability for breeding. As part of the Breed Survey, the dog's structural qualities are thoroughly examined including weight and height. The temperament of the dog is also closely examined through a test for gun sensitivity and a test of the dog's protection capabilities. You might wonder if any German Shepherd could participate in these tests. The answer is that before a dog can even be considered for the Breed Survey, it must meet several requirements.
The dog must demonstrate sound nerve and temperament by passing the BH obedience and temperament test. The dog must be titled in Schutzhund which involves many months and years of training in tracking, obedience and protection. The dog's hips must be OFA certified or receive the equivalent rating from Germany indicated by the "a" stamp designation.
The dog must have passed the AD test demonstrating physical soundness by running over 12 miles while the handler bicycles. The dog must also be tattooed and have a show rating of at least G (good) at a German style conformation show. There are other details that the Breed Survey Master will note on the papers such as pigmentation, coat type, eye and toenail color, expression, firmness of back and pasterns, proper dentition, correctness of ears and correctness of the movement coming and going.
The Breed Survey report may also include recommendations for breeding or add precautions that certain bloodlines should be avoided. The report may also indicate the dog's special qualities or shortcomings.
So when you see the KKL1 or KKL2 behind the dogs name, you know the owner has gone through a tremendous effort, training and expense and great dedication to make sure the dog is suitable for breeding, which in turn gives you the puppy buyer the best chance of getting a quality pup.
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