- A pedigree chart is used to show ancestral lineage. The three most common uses are in human genealogy, and to show the breeding lines of horses and dogs. A pedigree chart resembles a flow chart, utilizing lines and shapes to show the descendants of a particular life form.
- Genealogists use the pedigree chart to show ancestry in the creation of family trees. Full family trees start with the youngest generation and work backwards, stepping from generation to generation, showing all relatives at each level. Each level is connected by lines through sibling or parental relationships. The end result is often a multi-tiered chart of relationships which connect the latest generation of children to ancestors who lived many years ago.
- Breeders use the pedigree chart to show ancestry and prove the purity of the animal. A pure bred animal or one with strong lines will be more competitive in shows or races, be permitted entry into clubs or societies and result in higher breeding fees or sale prices. For instance, a dog that can be proven pure bred will command a greater sale price or stud fee than those dogs which mixed along the way with other breeds. Dog breeders prove lineage by showing a pedigree chart of the breed.
