[Ayoka]

Well to get one of the Schutzhund titles, AD, a dog has to be able to complete 20k....this is basically the human equivalent of a half marathon. I'd say that a healthy dog with sound hips would be fine. Perhaps your brother-in-law's dog had some structural/orthopedic issues like hip displaysia.

If you want to know about your dog and HD you shuld have him OFA tested. Your vet can arrange this for you. your dogs pedegree (if he's registered) should give you an idea of what to expect as these issues are known to be hereditary.