The United Doberman Club (UDC) Breed Survey is a comprehensive evaluation program designed to assess Doberman Pinschers for their suitability as breeding stock. Modeled after the German Dobermann Verien (DV) Zuchttauglichkeitsprüfung (ZTP), it aims to promote the "Total Doberman" – a dog sound in mind and body, with excellent conformation, stable temperament, and appropriate working drives.

The United Doberman Club Breed Survey is an in-depth assessment for Doberman Pinschers, ensuring they meet rigorous standards for health, temperament, and conformation before being considered for breeding. It's a vital tool for responsible breeders to evaluate their dogs and contribute to the overall improvement and preservation of the Doberman breed.

Purpose of the Breed Survey:

• Promote the "Total Doberman": The primary goal is to identify Dobermans that embody the breed standard—possessing sound genetics, stable temperaments, correct conformation, and strong working drives.

• Evaluate Breeding Stock: It provides an objective and thorough evaluation of potential breeding dogs, helping to make informed decisions about pairings that will produce healthy, well-tempered, and type-correct puppies.

• Maintain Breed Integrity: By setting high standards, the survey helps to guard against indiscriminate breeding and encourages the perpetuation of the Doberman's original purpose as a capable working dog.

• Educate and Inform: It serves as an educational program for Doberman owners and breeders, providing detailed insights into their dogs' strengths and weaknesses.

What does the Breed Survey involve?

The UDC Breed Survey is a multi-faceted examination that typically includes:

1. Prerequisite Health Clearances: Before a dog can participate, proof of certain health tests (e.g., hip x-rays, thyroid, eye, von Willebrand's disease (vWD), and cardiac testing) must be submitted, ensuring the dog is free from common genetic health issues.

2. Conformation Evaluation: A judge evaluates the dog's physical structure against the UDC (modified AKC) breed standard, including measurements, dentition, and evaluation of movement.

3. Temperament Evaluation: This crucial component tests the dog's character and stability in various situations. It involves:

   • Being handled and examined by strangers.

   • Interacting in a noisy crowd with unusual stimuli (e.g., shaking buckets, opening umbrellas).

   • Demonstrating appropriate protective instincts when challenged by an aggressor, and the ability to calm down once the threat is resolved.

   • Showing appropriate reaction to gunfire.

Why is it important?

Participating in the UDC Breed Survey demonstrates a commitment to responsible breeding and the long-term health and quality of the Doberman Pinscher breed. It provides invaluable information to breeders, helping them to produce Dobermans that are not only beautiful but also possess the stable temperament and working ability for which the breed is renowned.