Nearly every recognized dog breed in the United States has at least one dedicated breed club, and many mixed or designer breeds also have organizations focused on their care and development.
Breed clubs typically affiliate with the American Kennel Club (AKC) or other registry bodies, collaborating on matters specific to each breed's standards, health, and promotion.
Although you don't have to own a dog of the breed to join most clubs, these organizations offer especially valuable resources and support to owners and breeders of that breed. This article delves into the advantages of joining a breed club, what these groups do, and how to select the right one for you and your canine companion.
What do breed clubs do in the U.S.?
Every breed club varies in its mission, but they usually share several common goals and activities:
- Establish and maintain breed standards that define the ideal traits, which may have slight variations from AKC's official breed standards.
- For hybrid or designer breeds like the Labradoodle and Cockapoo, clubs often work toward formalizing breed standards to gain future AKC recognition.
- Keep records of member breeders and dogs, sometimes providing searchable databases available to members or prospective buyers.
- Maintain directories of approved, reputable breeders, promoting ethical breeding practices and encouraging puppy buyers to select from these vetted sources.
- Collect and share health data on breed-specific diseases and traits, enforcing health standards among members.
- Require health testing protocols before granting membership to foster the breed's health and welfare.
- Advocate with the AKC and other governing bodies to influence breed health policies, breeding improvements, and registration matters.
- Improve public awareness and the overall image of their breed while promoting responsible ownership and breeding ethics.
- Organize breed-specific dog shows, often serving as qualifiers for national AKC shows and events.
AKC-Affiliated Breed Clubs
These clubs are officially recognized by the American Kennel Club as the primary breed organizations. Typically, only one club per breed holds this status, collaborating closely with the AKC on standards, health protocols, and breed-enhancement initiatives.
Checking a Breed Club's Policies
Several breeds have multiple breed clubs across the U.S. While joining more than one club is allowed, it's important to compare their missions and policies before committing.
Different clubs can have varying philosophies — for example, one may strictly follow AKC standards and health requirements, while another may propose adjustments or alternative breeding approaches.
Divisive breeds, including French Bulldogs and Pugs, frequently have particularly split club communities. For designer or mixed breeds, the accepted breed traits can vary widely. Before joining, thoroughly research a club's reputation, goals, and health mandates.
Reasons to Join a Breed Club
Selecting the right breed club offers several rewards, especially for breeders who prioritize ethical practices:
- Breeding support: Meeting club requirements such as health screening boosts your credibility and helps you responsibly market your litters to buyers wanting assurance.
- Influence: Participate actively in club decisions to help shape policies and promote your breed's wellbeing and progress.
- Access to dog shows: Membership typically grants entry to exclusive breed shows that may qualify dogs for larger AKC-sanctioned events.
- Community: Connect with fellow owners and breeders for advice, support, and friendship within the breed community.
- Member discounts: Clubs often negotiate discounts on health tests, dog food, training, and accessories by leveraging collective buying power.
How to Find a Breed Club in the USA
The AKC's official find a breed club search tool helps locate AKC-affiliated clubs nationwide, although it doesn't include unaffiliated or hybrid breed groups.
You can also search online by combining your breed name with terms like "club" or "organization." Be sure to vet the club's mission, history, and member reviews before joining or paying fees.
Common FAQs About Joining a Breed Club
What does AKC registered mean?
Quick Answer: "AKC registered" indicates that a dog or breeder is registered with the American Kennel Club, confirming compliance with official pedigree and breeding standards in the U.S.
Registration with the AKC ensures a dog's documented pedigree recognized nationally. This helps preserve breed integrity, supports responsible breeding, and guarantees puppies meet health and temperament criteria outlined by the AKC. Many breed clubs require prospective members' dogs to be AKC registered or meet comparable standards.
Where can I buy a puppy responsibly?
Quick Answer: The most responsible way to buy a puppy is through reputable, AKC-approved breeders registered with breed clubs or the AKC.
Breed clubs usually maintain lists of member breeders who follow ethical breeding protocols such as health screening and socialization. Purchasing puppies from these sources supports responsible breeders committed to their dogs' welfare and health. Avoid buying from puppy mills or unscrupulous sellers to help prevent unethical breeding practices.