Julie Martinez On – What Does AKC Breeder Of Merit Mean?
On October 4, 2010 the American Kennel Club officially introduced a new program, the AKC Breeder of Merit. The program was designed to recognize breeders who take an active part in AKC events, health test of breed, and encourage registration of the puppies they produce. According to AKC documentation, an AKC Breeder of Merit has “the power to influence, guide and teach future breeders, exhibitors and all purebred dog owners.”
Breeder Of Merit Requirements
To qualify as an AKC Breeder of Merit, a breeder must have met the following requirements:
- At least 5 years involvement with AKC events
- At least 4 Conformation, Performance or Companion event titles on dogs they bred
- Membership in an AKC club
- Certification that applicable health screens are performed on the sire and dam as recommended by the Parent Club
- Demonstration of a commitment to ensuring 100% of the puppies produced are AKC registered
Breeders who qualify for the Breeder of Merit designation will receive benefits from the AKC, including special designation on registration paperwork, forms, and pedigrees; savings on secondary transactions and online AKC reports; enhanced AKC support; and identification items such as a certificate, pin, and website banner.
What Does It Mean For Puppy Buyers?
A breeder like Mittelwest, whom obtains the Breeder of Merit designation has demonstrated an overwhelming commitment to the breed. Participation in AKC events encourages not only the dog owner to bond, but is also an objective evaluation of the dog’s adherence to the breeds standard. While conformation events are the primary area for this type of evaluation, performance and companion events can also provide some general information on the dog’s structure and temperament.
Membership in an AKC club suggests that the breeder connects and networks with other breeders, of their own breed or other breeds, to maintain a broad information base on issues concerning purebreds and dogs in general. Performing recommended health screening indicates that the breeder cares about the long term health and wellness of the puppies they produce and the breed.
