What makes a dog "pedigree"?
* Registered Ancestry: A pedigree dog has a documented lineage tracing back multiple generations, typically through a recognized kennel club.
* Breed Standards: Pedigree dogs must meet the breed standards set by the kennel club, including physical characteristics and temperament.
Silver Labs and Pedigree:
* Color Variation: Silver labs are a color variation within the Labrador Retriever breed. They are not a separate breed.
* Recognition: Some kennel clubs (like the AKC in the US) do recognize the silver coat color in Labrador Retrievers.
* Parentage: If your silver lab's parents are registered Labrador Retrievers, then they are part of the breed's gene pool.
To determine if your silver lab is a "pedigree" dog, you'll need to:
1. Check for Registration: Do your dog's parents have official registration papers from a recognized kennel club (like the AKC or UKC)?
2. Verify Lineage: The registration papers will show your dog's lineage and should be checked for consistency with breed standards.
Important Note: Even if your silver lab's parents are registered, their offspring might not automatically inherit that pedigree status. It depends on whether the offspring themselves were registered with the same kennel club and meet the specific criteria.
In conclusion: Your silver lab can be recognized as a pedigree dog if its parents are registered Labrador Retrievers and if the dog itself is registered with a recognized kennel club.