Frequently Asked Questions

What is unique about Deutsch Langhaar Gruppe Nordamerika?
The Deutsch Langhaar Gruppe Nordamerika believes that the Deutsch Langhaar exhibits true versatility in pure breeding since 1879 as a result of years of collective experience of the Deutsch Langhaar Verband (DLV) and Breeding Commission. DL-GNA is the only officially sanctioned DL group in North America that follows the breeding rules and regulations of the DLV. Only dogs certified for breeding under the DL Breeding Rules and Regulations are used in DL-GNA breeding programs.

Is a Deutsch Langhaar (DL) and a German Longhair Pointer (GLP) the same breed?
No. The English translation of Deutsch Langhaar is “German Longhair”. Much like the Deutsch Drathaar (DD) is distinguished from the German Wirehair and the Deutsch Kurzhaar is not considered to be the same breed as the German Shorthair. The terms German Longhair/German Longhair Pointers/German Longhaired Pointers are often used interchangeably with Deutsch Langhaar, however they are technically considered separate breeds due to the different breeding standards and performance expectations.

The Deutsch-Langhaar Breed Association defines “pure-breeding” as the preservation of the breed’s appearance conforming to type and of its demonstrated hunting abilities. The Deutsch Langhaar is bred to standards set by the JGHV and the DLV. It is because of this solid breeding program established in 1879 that quality versatile hunting Deutsch Langhaars exist today. A Deutsch-Langhaar dog is certified to be a pure-bred if it is registered in the Deutsch-Langhaar Breed Register (ZDL), is issued a FCI/VDH/JGHV an Ahnentafel (pedigree) and was tattooed as a puppy and has been bred in accordance with the Breeding Regulations of the Deutsch Langhaar Verband (DLV). In order for DL puppies to receive an Ahnentafel, the breeder must be a member of Gruppe Nordamerika and thereby agree to the bylaws, rules and regulations and breeding rules and regulations of the JGHV, DLV and DL-GNA.

Isn't any breed club that has standards going to produce quality hunting dogs? 
Maybe, depending on the integrity of the breed club, its breeders and the minimum standards. In any breed club there are many breeder types that breed according to preferences and goals with some only meeting minimum requirements. Differences among breed clubs lie in those minimum standards as well as continuity, leadership and membership. DL-GNA as a member club of the DLV, follows it's rules and regulations that have been in place since 1879.

Does membership in Deutsch Langhaar Gruppe Nordamerika require that members own Deutsch Langhaars exclusively? 
NO. Several members own other breeds of dogs other than the DL, including Chesapeke Bay Retrievers, Drathaars, Flat Coat Retrievers, English Setters, Gordon Setters, etc. Deutsch Langhaar Gruppe Nordamerika bylaws state in accordance with the policies of the DLV, that breeding outside of rules and regulations of the DLV and Breeding Commission is forbidden. Therefore a Gruppe Nordamerika member cannot maintain nor support a breeding program for the GLP, or breed a Deutsch Langhaar out of regulation. Members who own GLPs are welcome as members of Gruppe Nordamerika as long as they do not breed their GLPs. A Gruppe Nordamerika member is permitted to maintain another breeding program of an unrelated breed, such as Deutsch Kurzhaars, English Pointers, etc. The DL-GNA membership is primarily comprised of hunters first and foremost and all are welcome as members regardless of what dog breed they hunt behind.

Can a member of Deutsch Langhaar Gruppe Nordamerika test with and belong to other organizations? Gruppe Nordamerika adhering to the guidelines of the JGHV and DLV, is the only breed specific club exclusively for Deutsch Langhaars in North America. Performance and breed tests recognized by the JGHV and DLV ensure the continuance and integrity of the Deutsch Langhaar. It is permissible for DL owners to belong to other testing organizations. Members are encouraged to join other testing organizations for training and testing in different venues. Although these tests are not recognized by the JGHV and DLV for breed certification, each experience lends itself to a better-rounded versatile hunting companion. Several members also belong to NAVHDA and NSTRA. However, DL-GNA members are NOT permitted to maintain a membership or association with a German Longhair Pointer breed club by that or any other name that is not a member club of the JGHV or FCI. To do so is not only a conflict of interest but violates the bylaws, rules and regulations and DL Breeding Rules and Regulations of Gruppe Nordamerika, the DLV and the JGHV.

As a new puppy owner am I required to test my dog?
The primary objective of Deutsch Langhaar Gruppe Nordamerika is to place quality versatile hunting dogs in hunting homes. New owners are asked to respect the fact that the Deutsch Langhaar is excellent versatile hunting companion as a result of stringent testing and breeding regulations. A breeder relies on results from a VJP puppy test to evaluate the inherited natural abilities and level of consistency among the litter. Although testing is not required, Gruppe Nordamerika strongly encourages all puppy buyers to at least prepare for and run your pup in a VJP which will aid in puppy development as it is exposed to game and learns how to use its nose, concentrate, search and point and hunt for and with its handler. Training for the HZP advanced puppy test will result in a useful versatile hunting companion for many seasons to come. Regardless as to whether or not you have any interest in breeding, completing the necessary steps to have your dog certified will not only enhance the bond between you and your better trained hunting partner, it is an achievement to be proud of.