Dog Breeder Regulations And Educational Resources

AKC Breeder Regulations

Regulating dog breeders is a critical concern to ensure the ethical treatment of animals and maintain breed standards. The American Kennel Club (AKC), Federal and State government agencies play roles in this regulation. Must Be Frenchies supports these efforts!

The AKC, founded in 1884, is a key organization in the world of dog breeding. It sets breed standards, organizes dog shows, and maintains a registry of purebred dogs. The AKC’s regulations aim to ensure that breeders adhere to ethical practices, prioritize the health and well-being of dogs, and work towards the betterment of specific breeds. AKC-inspected breeders must comply with guidelines that cover various aspects of dog breeding, including health screenings, proper housing, and socialization practices.

Federal Government Breeder Regulations

Government regulation, on the other hand, often involves more stringent and enforceable standards. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is responsible for enforcing the Animal Welfare Act (AWA), which sets minimum standards for the care and treatment of animals bred for commercial sale. Licensed dog breeders must undergo regular inspections to ensure they meet these standards, which cover aspects such as adequate housing, sanitation, food, water, and veterinary care. Violations can result in fines, suspension of licenses, and even closure of breeding operations.

State Government Breeder Regulations

In addition to federal regulations, many states (MO Dept Of Ag) and localities have their own laws governing dog breeders. These can include licensing requirements, for instance, some states require breeders to provide a certain level of veterinary care and to maintain specific records about the health and lineage of the dogs they breed.

Collaboration between the AKC and government agencies is crucial for effective regulation. The AKC often provides resources and support to breeders to help them comply with government regulations and improve their breeding practices. Conversely, government agencies may rely on the AKC’s expertise in breed standards and health issues.

While the AKC and government agencies both play vital roles in regulating dog breeders, ongoing efforts and collaboration are essential to protect the welfare of dogs and maintain the integrity of dog breeding practices.

Veterinary Inspections

Must Be Frenchies is also inspected yearly by our veterinarian. When our veterinarian comes for an inspection he physically picks up every dog for examination. Our vet starts by checking their heart with a stethoscope, he checks their eyes for any abrasions or ulcers, he checks their knees for luxating patellas, he checks their teeth for dental disease, he palpates the body for lumps, bumps or bruising. After he examines them he gives them their rabies vaccine. After each dog is thoroughly checked their health findings are recorded on a legal document that is sent into Federal and State Regulating agencies. Anything the vet records on these forms must be dealt with immediately, in fact, the vet has the final say in stating whether the dog is fit for breeding which he also notes on the form, if he denotes a dog is not fit for breeding that dog needs to be desexed and is then retired.