Choosing a dog breeder is a crucial decision that significantly impacts the health, temperament, and overall well-being of your future furry companion. The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a well-known registry, but AKC registration alone doesn’t guarantee a responsible breeder. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to verify AKC breeders, helping you navigate the process and make an informed choice.
Understanding the American Kennel Club (AKC)
The AKC is the largest purebred dog registry in the United States. Its primary functions include maintaining a registry of purebred dogs, advancing the sport of dogs, and advocating for responsible dog ownership. It’s important to recognize that AKC registration verifies the dog’s pedigree, not the breeder’s practices.
What AKC Registration Means
AKC registration means that the dog’s parents were registered with the AKC and that the litter was properly recorded. It provides a record of the dog’s lineage and allows the dog to participate in AKC events such as conformation shows, agility trials, and obedience competitions.
What AKC Registration Doesn’t Mean
AKC registration doesn’t guarantee the health, temperament, or quality of care provided by the breeder. It doesn’t ensure that the breeder performs health testing on their breeding dogs or adheres to ethical breeding practices. Many responsible breeders choose to register their dogs with the AKC, but not all AKC breeders are responsible.
Steps to Verify an AKC Breeder
Verifying an AKC breeder involves a multi-faceted approach that goes beyond simply confirming their AKC registration. It requires careful research, diligent questioning, and, ideally, a visit to the breeder’s facilities.
Confirming AKC Registration
The first step is to confirm that the breeder is indeed registered with the AKC. You can do this through the AKC website.
- AKC Marketplace: Search for breeders on the AKC Marketplace, a platform where breeders can list their puppies and dogs. While a listing on the AKC Marketplace doesn’t automatically guarantee responsible breeding practices, it does confirm that the breeder is registered with the AKC.
- Contacting the AKC: You can contact the AKC directly to verify a breeder’s registration status. Provide the breeder’s name and any other relevant information you have.
Investigating Breeder Reputation and History
Beyond AKC registration, delve deeper into the breeder’s reputation and history.
- Online Reviews and Forums: Search for online reviews and forum discussions about the breeder. Look for patterns of positive or negative feedback. Be aware that some reviews may be biased, so consider the overall trend.
- Breed-Specific Clubs: Contact breed-specific clubs for information about breeders in your area. These clubs often have lists of reputable breeders who adhere to their code of ethics. They may also have information about any complaints or concerns raised against specific breeders.
- Veterinarian References: Ask the breeder for references from their veterinarian. Contact the veterinarian and inquire about the breeder’s animal care practices, the health of their dogs, and their overall reputation.
Evaluating Health Testing and Genetic Screening
Responsible breeders prioritize the health of their dogs and actively work to minimize the risk of genetic diseases.
- Health Testing Protocols: Inquire about the health testing protocols the breeder follows. Reputable breeders will conduct breed-specific health tests recommended by organizations like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF).
- Reviewing Health Certificates: Ask to see copies of the health certificates for the breeding dogs. Verify that the tests were performed by qualified veterinarians or specialists. Understand what the results mean and how they relate to the breed.
- Understanding Common Breed-Specific Health Issues: Research the common health issues associated with the breed you’re interested in. This knowledge will help you assess whether the breeder is taking appropriate steps to mitigate those risks.
Assessing the Breeder’s Knowledge and Experience
A knowledgeable and experienced breeder will be able to answer your questions thoroughly and provide valuable insights into the breed.
- Breeding Experience: Inquire about the breeder’s experience with the breed. How long have they been breeding? How many litters have they produced? Experienced breeders are generally more knowledgeable about the breed’s health, temperament, and care requirements.
- Breed Knowledge: Assess the breeder’s knowledge of the breed standard, common health issues, temperament traits, and training requirements. A knowledgeable breeder should be able to answer your questions accurately and provide helpful advice.
- Commitment to Education: Look for breeders who are committed to continuing education and staying up-to-date on the latest advancements in canine health, genetics, and breeding practices.
Evaluating the Breeding Environment and Practices
The breeding environment and practices can provide valuable clues about the breeder’s commitment to animal welfare.
- Visiting the Facilities: Whenever possible, visit the breeder’s facilities to observe the living conditions of the dogs. Are the facilities clean, spacious, and well-maintained? Do the dogs appear healthy, well-socialized, and comfortable?
- Observing the Dogs’ Temperament: Observe the temperament of the breeding dogs. Are they friendly, outgoing, and well-adjusted? Avoid breeders whose dogs appear fearful, aggressive, or withdrawn.
- Socialization Practices: Inquire about the breeder’s socialization practices. Are the puppies exposed to a variety of people, environments, and stimuli from a young age? Early socialization is crucial for developing well-adjusted and confident dogs.
- Nutritional Practices: Ask about the breeder’s nutritional practices. What type of food do they feed their dogs? Are the dogs provided with adequate nutrition to support their health and well-being?
Reviewing the Breeder’s Contract and Guarantees
A reputable breeder will have a written contract that outlines the terms of the sale, including health guarantees, return policies, and spay/neuter requirements.
- Health Guarantees: Carefully review the health guarantees offered by the breeder. What conditions are covered? How long is the guarantee valid? What are the requirements for making a claim?
- Return Policies: Understand the breeder’s return policies. Under what circumstances will they take the dog back? What are the procedures for returning a dog?
- Spay/Neuter Requirements: Many responsible breeders require that puppies be spayed or neutered to prevent unwanted litters and reduce the risk of certain health problems.
- Clear and Concise Language: Ensure that the contract is written in clear and concise language that you understand. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask the breeder for clarification.
Ethical Considerations: Red Flags to Watch Out For
Be aware of red flags that may indicate unethical or irresponsible breeding practices.
- Multiple Breeds: Breeders who raise multiple breeds may not be able to devote the necessary time and resources to each breed’s specific needs.
- Always Available Puppies: Breeders who always have puppies available may be operating a puppy mill or engaging in high-volume breeding practices.
- Refusal to Show Facilities: A breeder who refuses to show you their facilities may be hiding something.
- Lack of Health Testing: A lack of health testing is a major red flag. It indicates that the breeder is not prioritizing the health of their dogs.
- Unwillingness to Answer Questions: A breeder who is unwilling to answer your questions or provides vague or evasive answers may be trying to hide something.
- Pressure to Buy: Be wary of breeders who pressure you to buy a puppy or try to discourage you from doing your research.
Asking the Right Questions
Prepare a list of questions to ask the breeder. These questions should cover all aspects of their breeding practices, from health testing to socialization.
- “How long have you been breeding this breed?”
- “What health testing do you perform on your breeding dogs?”
- “Can I see copies of the health certificates for the parents of this litter?”
- “What is your socialization program for the puppies?”
- “What type of food do you feed your dogs?”
- “What is your policy on returns?”
- “Do you require that puppies be spayed or neutered?”
- “Can I visit your facilities?”
- “Do you have references from previous buyers or your veterinarian?”
- “What are the common health issues associated with this breed, and how do you address them?”
- “What is your experience in handling temperament issues in the breed?”
- “How do you ensure that your puppies are placed in suitable homes?”
- “What support do you provide to new owners after they take their puppy home?”
- “Can you provide examples of successes you’ve had with previous puppies you’ve placed?”
- “What are your goals as a breeder?”
Trust Your Instincts
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to purchase a puppy from a particular breeder is a personal one. Trust your instincts and choose a breeder who you feel comfortable with and who shares your values.
The Importance of Responsible Breeding
Responsible breeding is essential for the health and well-being of dogs. By supporting responsible breeders, you can help to reduce the incidence of genetic diseases, improve temperament, and ensure that dogs are placed in loving and responsible homes.
Beyond AKC: Considering Other Registries and Organizations
While the AKC is a prominent registry, it’s worth noting that other reputable registries and organizations exist. The United Kennel Club (UKC) is another well-known registry. Breed-specific organizations may also have their own registration programs or lists of recommended breeders.
The Long-Term Commitment of Dog Ownership
Remember that bringing a dog into your life is a long-term commitment. Be prepared to provide your dog with love, care, and attention for many years to come. Choosing a responsible breeder is the first step in ensuring a happy and healthy life for your new companion.
By following these steps, you can increase your chances of finding a responsible AKC breeder and bringing home a healthy, well-adjusted puppy who will be a cherished member of your family for many years to come. Remember, due diligence is key to responsible dog ownership.
What is the American Kennel Club (AKC) and why is it important to verify breeders through them?
The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a registry of purebred dogs in the United States. It maintains a record of pedigrees, promotes and sanctions dog events, and advocates for responsible dog ownership. Verifying breeders through the AKC can be important because the AKC sets standards for breeding practices, including health testing and temperament evaluation, aiming to improve the health and well-being of purebred dogs.
However, AKC registration alone doesn’t guarantee ethical breeding. It’s crucial to understand that AKC registration primarily verifies the lineage of a dog and that the parents are also registered with the AKC. A responsible breeder will go above and beyond AKC’s basic requirements, proactively prioritizing the health and socialization of their dogs.
How can I check if a breeder is registered with the AKC?
You can check if a breeder is registered with the AKC by visiting the AKC Marketplace website. This online platform allows you to search for breeders based on breed, location, and other criteria. The AKC Marketplace often indicates whether a breeder participates in AKC programs like the Bred with H.E.A.R.T. program, which signifies a commitment to health, education, accountability, responsibility, and tradition.
Additionally, reputable breeders will proudly display their AKC registration information on their website or in their advertisements. Always ask the breeder directly for their AKC registration number and then verify it with the AKC. Be wary of breeders who are hesitant to provide this information or who claim to be “AKC registered” but cannot provide proof.
What does the AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. program signify?
The AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. program is a voluntary program for AKC breeders who commit to specific health testing and socialization practices. “H.E.A.R.T.” stands for Health, Education, Accountability, Responsibility, and Tradition. Breeders participating in this program agree to conduct recommended health screenings for their breed, participate in continuing education, comply with AKC rules and regulations, and promote responsible dog ownership.
Participation in the Bred with H.E.A.R.T. program can be a positive indicator of a breeder’s commitment to ethical breeding practices, but it is not a guarantee. It is still vital to conduct your own research and visit the breeder’s premises to assess the environment and the health and temperament of the dogs. Ask detailed questions about their breeding practices and health testing protocols.
Beyond AKC registration, what other red flags should I watch out for when choosing a breeder?
Beyond AKC registration, several red flags can indicate that a breeder is not ethical or responsible. These include breeders who always have puppies available, breed multiple breeds at once, refuse to allow you to visit their facility, or are unwilling to provide health records for the parent dogs. Be suspicious of breeders who seem primarily motivated by profit rather than the well-being of their dogs.
Another red flag is if the breeder is hesitant to answer your questions or becomes defensive when asked about their breeding practices. A reputable breeder will be open and transparent about their processes, happy to show you the dogs’ living environment, and eager to ensure that their puppies are going to good homes. Trust your instincts; if something feels off, it likely is.
What kind of health testing should a responsible breeder be conducting?
A responsible breeder should conduct health testing relevant to the specific breed they are breeding. These tests can help identify genetic predispositions to certain health problems and prevent affected dogs from being bred. Common health tests include hip and elbow dysplasia evaluations, eye examinations, heart examinations, and DNA testing for breed-specific genetic diseases.
The specific health tests required will vary depending on the breed. Look for breeders who are transparent about the health testing they perform and are willing to provide documentation of the results from reputable organizations like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or PennHIP. They should also be knowledgeable about the health issues common in their breed and be able to discuss them openly with you.
What questions should I ask a breeder to assess their ethical practices?
When evaluating a breeder, ask detailed questions about their breeding philosophy, health testing protocols, socialization practices, and commitment to finding suitable homes for their puppies. Ask about the temperament and health history of the parent dogs, the socialization experiences provided to the puppies, and the breeder’s screening process for potential buyers.
Furthermore, inquire about the breeder’s return policy or contingency plan if you are unable to care for the dog in the future. A responsible breeder will be invested in the long-term well-being of their dogs and will have a system in place to ensure that any dog they breed will always have a safe and loving home. They should be willing to take the dog back if necessary, regardless of the circumstances.
Why is visiting the breeder’s facility important, and what should I look for?
Visiting the breeder’s facility is crucial to assess the environment in which the dogs are raised and to get a firsthand look at their health and temperament. Observe the cleanliness of the facility, the space provided to the dogs, and the overall atmosphere. The dogs should appear happy, healthy, and well-socialized, and the facility should be free from odors and hazards.
While visiting, pay attention to the interaction between the breeder and their dogs. The breeder should demonstrate a genuine affection and care for the animals. The dogs should be comfortable around the breeder and show no signs of fear or aggression. If the environment seems unsanitary, overcrowded, or if the dogs appear neglected, it’s a strong indication to look elsewhere for a puppy.