But as the puppies grow older, the deformity becomes more evident in the shape and length of the front legs. However, not all chondrodysplastics are severely affected. It is not the chondrodysplastics themselves that are the major problem. Nevertheless, an undetermined number of puppies will themselves be carriers, having inherited the gene from their carrier parent. If proof can be offered that an uncertified ancestor is a full sibling to a certified dog, the applicant's pedigree will be evaluated via the C.C.C. five generation pedigree.
Certification is done by checking a five generation pedigree of the dog.
Each dog is assigned an individual number. Sometimes the pedigree reveals the dog to be non-certifiable with regards to Chondrodysplasia. In such cases, the AMCA recommends these dogs not be bred. The owner may feel the dog to be a great asset to a breeding program, or the dog may already have offspring who are themselves now affected by the uncertifiable status of the parent. The committee will assist the owner in this choice.