It is indeed a great privilege for me to introduce to our members, Al Govednik and Gonzo z Ceska in our GSD of the month section. The accomplishments that Al and Gonzo have achieved over the years are quite impressive. Gonzo is a "HOT" handler owner trained dog. Al got Gonzo as a pup. He placed 2nd in the USA FH Championship in 1999 and placed 4th in 2000. He won 3 Regional FH Championships 2000,2002 and 2005.


He's been a National Schutzhund Competitor numerous times. Al and Gonzo have won numerous awards at different local clubs. Gonzo is a large powerfully built masculine, black sable German Shepherd Dog out of strong Czech working lines. He was born August 26, 1996. He has OFA good hips. Zdenek Sedlo the breeder of Gonzo was located in Canada when he was born, but has since returned to the Czech Republic. Gonzo's sire is Lars z Zlataku ZVV I who was a working police dog in New York. The grandsire was Ary's z Travnikova dvora IPO III. ZPO, ZVV III, ZZP II, SVP; a very strong protection dog that won numerous Championships in Europe including the Czech Nationals. Grand dam is Yena z Zlataku ZVV II. Her sire is Exi Ku-Jan ZVV II, IPO III, UME. Exi was a multiple time participant in European championship events.


Gonzo's dam is Vanda z Lipin Schh I. Her career was cut short due to a training accident. Vanda's sire is Alf Lablapega ZVV II, IPO III,Schh III. Alf won the FCI Championship in 1992 and also participated in numerous WUSV Championships. Alf's sire is a DDR dog Gero vom Markersdorf IPO III, ZVV II, ZPO. The grand dam on the mother's side is Axa Z Travnikova dvora ZVV III,ZPO. She was a strong bitch in protection work. She won the ZPO championship in 1988. Both sides on Gonzo's great grand parents are again very strong working dogs, some of which earned border patrol titles (Dargo z Kkainarov, Cita z Vrtroske doliny)

Genealogy of Gonzo z Ceska


Al describes Gonzo as a very stable dog, that is aloof. He's very attached to Al and always keeps Al within his sights. He has extreme ball drive. In protection Gonzo is more on the defensive side and helpers need to be aware of the power he brings into the protection work, as he can bring them down.


There you can also view some of their other dog's whose lists of accomplishments are equally as long! Al and Marcia and the MSSV Club set a great example for the sport and the rest of us to follow. We at DDR Legends are proud to have Al as a member. His accomplishments are more than deserving of a spotlight. It is not often you find a judge willing to participate in a forum. Let's make the most of it! If you ever get the chance to visit MSSV, it is one you will always treasure.

They have a down to earth demeanor, with a great vast knowledge of training skills that are done in a highly professional manner, and a very friendly and warm group of members who are all willing to help.

Al, we are humbled by your long list of accomplishments, your generosity, and the many years you have dedicated to the sport and your love of your dogs. We look forward to seeing you and your club and more to that list! DDR Legends would like to express what an honor and a privilege it has been to feature Gonzo and Al, his wife Marcia and the MSSV Club !

Pam Cyrene