THE American Kennel Club (AKC) stated very explicitly in a disclosure that responsible breeders should always strive to learn and seek to improve their breeds with every litter. Responsibility here means to devote hours to continually learn as much as you can about your breeds, including its health and genetic concerns, temperament, appearance and type. The breeders also need to know about general dog behaviour, training and healthcare. In fact, as well-groomed breeders, you must be canine experts; so says the AKC.But how can you acquire this expertise'The AKC prescribes the following.You will notice though that certain prescriptions may not relate directly to our current situations in Nigeria.Become involved with dog clubs: Each breed has a national club (or 'parent' club), and there are thousands of local clubs devoted to individual breeds. (Local clubs are also called 'specialty 'clubs). There are thousands of other clubs across the country, including all-breed clubs and clubs devoted to obedience, tracking or performance events. Most clubs sponsor educational programmes and events that will help you increase your knowledge. For lists of parent clubs and specialty clubs in your area, call AKC customer service or visit our website.Study your breed standard: The breed standard is the official guide by which dogs are judged at dog shows. Each breed of dog recognized by the AKC has its own standard (written by the parent club). The standards may specify everything from the curvature of a dog's tail, to the colour of its eyes. You can access your dog's breed standard and order breed-specific educational videos from the AKC website. Many parent clubs offer more detailed information on the standard, such as amplifications and illustrations.Attend dog events: Dog shows, obedience trials and performance events provide opportunities to observe purebreds in action. You can learn about different lines by viewing real dogs and studying the pedigree of those you like. Many people competing at dog shows are experienced breeders. Others are interested in the sport as a hobby. Attending shows can give you the chance to meet and learn from these experts.Read, Read, Read! : There are many books, magazines and websites available about every aspect of the dog experience. You'll find books about individual breeds, groups of breeds, breeding and whelping, genetics, behaviour and training and many more topics. The AKC publishes books such as The Complete Dog Book and Dog Care and Training along with numerous videos.The AKC GAZETTE, which is published monthly features breed-specific columns and articles on topics ranging from developmental orthopaedic disease to how to establish a club website. Most parent clubs produce periodic publications, as do many local clubs.The American Kennel Club offers a wealth of information about responsible breeding on its website. Novice breeders can read a step-by-step timeline about breeding the perfect (or close-to-perfect) litter.Registration and DNA certification information is included, as are articles written by experienced breeders and veterinarians. This section is titled 'Breeder Education'.Responsible breeders are familiar with AKC rules and regulations concerning the sale and registration of AKC registrable dogs. Before you breed your dog, you should contact the AKC to verify that you have all the paper work, understand how to register a litter, and are able to provide proper documentation to your buyers. To request AKC rules and regulations or order AKC publications, contact AKC Customer Service, or visit our website.A responsible breeder is objective: Virtually every dog is the best in the world in the eyes of its owner. Responsible breeders have the ability to separate their love for their dog from an honest evaluation of its good and bad points. Why is a detached point of view necessary' Breeding is hard work. Every breeding should be a carefully planned endeavor to produce a better dog.A good breeder recognizes a dog's flaws and finds a mate with characteristics that will help reduce or eliminate those flaws. So, how can you honestly evaluate your dog as potential breeding stock'Seek assistance from some of the best informational resources available'longtime breeders and the breeder of your dog. This person should have extensive knowledge of your dog's line and, like you, should want to see it continually improved.
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