Each year, The American Kennel Club recognizes and celebrates an outstanding purebred dog breeder with the Breeder of the Year Award. The award honors those breeders who have dedicated their lives to improving the health, temperament and quality of purebred dogs. At a special presentation held during the AKC National Championship presented by Royal Canin, a breeder, or pair of breeders, is recognized in each of the seven Groups. At the conclusion of the presentation, one of the seven Group recipients is chosen as the Breeder of the Year.
2021 David Fitzpatrick, Pequest Pekingese
2020 Gail S. Wolaniuk and Joan E. McFadden, Unique Standard Poodles
2019 Elizabeth and Daniel Karshner, Little Pond Bulldogs
2018 Kent Boyles and Liz Oster, Kenlyn/Marquis German Shepherd Dogs
2017 Helyne E. Medeiros, Seasyde Pointers
2016 Alan Kalter and Dr. Chris Lezotte, HappyLegs Bullmastiffs
2015 John Buddie, Tartanside Collies
2014 Gwen DeMilta and Carissa DeMilta Shimpeno, Alisaton Doberman Pinschers
2013 Winifred Stout, Quissex Smooth Fox Terriers
2012 James W. Smith, Absolutely Smooth Fox Terriers
2011 Pluis Davern, Sundowners Sussex Spaniels
2010 Debbie Butt, Sporting Field Whippets
2009 Claudia Orlandi, Ph.D, Topsfield Basset Hounds
2008 Joan Savage, Stagedoor English Setters
2007 Barbara Miller, Max-Well Norfolk Terriers
2006 Douglas and Michaelanne Johnson, Bugaboo Old English Sheepdogs
2005 Dave and Peggy Helming, Pouch Cove Newfoundlands
2004 Catherine B. Nelson, Pennywise Dandie Dinmont Terriers
2003 Mary Rodgers, Marienburg Doberman Pinschers
2002 Wendell J. Sammet, Ale Kai Standard Poodles
