Fundamentals of KlM Health & Genetics

“breed less, but breed better!”

In Germany, we have had a saying as advice for breeding for many generations: “breed less, but breed better!” This principle has proven itself well in the breeding of the classic KlM. In light of the rapid international growth of our breed, it could well sum up all of our experiences for the international breeding of the KlM in the future.

-Bernd-Dieter Jesinghausen

Genetic Testing

Kleine Münsterländer clubs, especially in Germany and North America, emphasize genetic testing to:

  1. Prevent Hereditary Diseases: Testing helps identify carriers of conditions like hip dysplasia, epilepsy, ectopic ureters, and hernias. This allows breeders to avoid pairings that could produce affected offspring.

  2. Preserve Working Traits: Traits like tracking, pointing, and cooperation are genetically influenced. Testing supports the selection of dogs that excel in these areas.

  3. Avoid Inbreeding: With a relatively small global population, genetic testing helps manage diversity and reduce the risk of inbreeding depression.

Blood Samples

Clubs like KlM-GNA require breeders to submit blood samples for several reasons:

  1. DNA Archiving: Blood samples are stored for future genetic research and verification.

  2. Pedigree Validation: Samples can confirm parentage and ensure the integrity of breeding records.

  3. Health Monitoring: Stored samples allow retrospective analysis if health issues arise in a lineage.

  4. Breed Conservation: In case of genetic bottlenecks, stored DNA can help identify healthy traits or lost lines.

DOGBASE

Dogbase is a specialized breeding evaluation software developed by KlM-Germany in collaboration with geneticists. It contains data on over 50,000 Kleine Münsterländers and is used to:

  • Analyze pedigrees across four generations

  • Calculate expected breeding values for traits like:

    • Tracking

    • Pointing

    • Gun sensitivity

    • Hip quality

    • Risk of epilepsy

    • Size and temperamentklm-gna

  • Estimate inbreeding coefficients and genetic homogeneity

  • Help breeders make informed decisions about pairings

Dogbase has been instrumental in reducing the incidence of hip dysplasia in the German KlM population to the point where it’s no longer a major concern.

Only dogs with sound health backgrounds are approved for breeding,

ensuring puppies are healthy, capable, and well-suited for hunting and family life.

Hip Dysplasia Certification

Obtain OFA or equivalent certification showing the dog is free of hip dysplasia.

Genetic Screenings

Epilepsy, Ectopic Ureter, & blood samples for long term storage and historical reference

General Health

Confirm the dog is in excellent physical condition with no major defects.

Ensure all core vaccinations are up to date and regular deworming/flea/tick prevention is maintained.

Vaccinations & Parasite Control

Conformity to FCI physical and behavioral standards

Dog must meet phsical and behavioral standards for the Kleine Munsterlander.
Pass both the VJP (spring natural ability test) and HZP (fall advanced test). Demonstrate ability in versatile hunting tasks (tracking, pointing, retrieving).

Certified pedigree

Documentation including a KlM-GNA or KlM-D registered pedigree. Ensured the dog’s data is entered into the DogBase system. And Breeding approval submitted and accepted with all health and performance documentation to KlM-GNA.