Zuchtschau (Breed show)
The breeding of the Deutsch Langhaar is inseparably connected to performance. The Deutsch-Langhaar Breed Association defines Performance Breeding as the breeding of DLs on the basis of demonstrated versatile hunting performance abilities. Special emphasis is placed on the dogs' work after the shot, and their calm, mentally sound disposition. The principle of sustaining and cultivating the usefulness of the Deutsch Langhaar as a versatile hunting dog is granted paramount consideration by the VDH Regulations. Breed shows are held to promote the breeding of the DL. The purpose of a Breed Show is to determine a DL's physical suitability or non-suitability for breeding and to evaluate the DL's type, conformation and coat against the established FCI standard and the DLV Breeding Regulations.

The DL Breed Association is a member of the JGHV and as such utilizes the JGHV tests as a basis for its dogs' breeding suitability. As part of the qualifications for breed certification, DLs must pass a VJP & a HZP or equivalent JGHV test, and have been rated at least a G in all 3 categories of type, conformation, and coat, without the presence of physical defects as defined by the breed standard.
V: Excellent
SG: Very Good
G: Good
Gen: Acceptable
Unge: Not Acceptable

In addition to the results from natural ability and performance tests, the DL's Breed Show evaluation is another important criterion in the process of selecting breeding stock. The DL is measured, the temperament is assessed, and any unique features are noted. Each DL is evaluated against the DL Breed Standard and the top 3 dogs are ranked. Apart from the DL's appearance in terms of physique, a sound mental disposition is of particular importance. It is imperative that exceptional displays in a DL's temperment are documented.

Breed Shows must be held at locations which facilitate that the dogs can freely move in the three types of gait. DLs should be evaluated while in motion. A dog may not be evaluated from stand-still or predominantly stand-still positions.

The dog must be evaluated by Breed Show Judges who must be registered in the DLV Judge's List. Breed Show Judges may not evaluate dogs that they have bred or trained. This shall also apply to the first generation offspring of such dogs. The Judges may further not evaluate dogs bred, handled or owned by parties who are related by blood or marriage to the Judge or share the same living quarters. Conformation Judges are registered as Conformation Judges with the VDH.

DLs to be presented at a Breed Show must be at least 18 months old. Dogs younger than 18 months, but at least 12 months old, may be given a preliminary rating. The evaluations of dogs under 12 months old (no ratings) are considered "Puppy or Youngster Breed Showings". These evaluations while useful in assessing potential during development, cannot be used for towards breed certification.

Currently, DLV sanctioned Breed Shows are held once a year for Gruppe Nordamerika.

Hip x-rays are submitted to Dr. med. vet. Tellhelm at the Chirurgische Veterinärklinik in Frankfurt for evaluation and a DL must pass with an A, B, or C rating to be approved for breeding under DLV regulations.
A = HD-frei
B = HD borderline (almost normal)
C = Mild HD (still breedable)
D = Medium HD (breeding ban)
E = Severe HD (breeding ban)

Breeding Policies of the Deutsch Langhaar Verband
All breeding related activity must be processed through Gruppe Nordamerika. This includes but is not limited to; breed warden/advisor counseling as required PRIOR to the start of the bitch’s heat cycle, puppy registration, stud registration, kennel registration and all matters spelled out in the Deutsch Langhaar Breeding Regulations. Although members are invited to belong to as many groups in Germany as they wish, all breeding related activity must go through Gruppe Nordamerika. See section 7.8 of the breed regulations for complete explanation. “A stud service may not occur without the presentation of the stud certificate. The certificate must be issued and signed by the respective Association Member Club”.

In Germany you may be members of other clubs, however ALL breed related issues must be handled through the group in your area. (I.e. if you live in Group Rheinland area you cannot go through Group Weser-Ems for breed related issues.) Refer to section 4.2 of the breed regulations. “The regional Member Club where the Breeder maintains his domicile shall be responsible for providing the counseling.”