AKC Registered Handlers Program

Code of Ethics for Registered Handlers

Applicants are required to sign a letter containing the following:

I agree to:

• Ensure that the welfare of the dogs in my care is a priority, not only at dog shows but at home and on the road. Their well-being, security, and safety is to be placed above all other business considerations. The ultimate responsibility for the dogs cannot be transferred to assistants or others.
• Conduct myself in a sportsmanlike manner at all times in my relationships with fellow handlers, assistants, exhibitors, judges and clients, which includes courteous verbal interchanges and a professional appearance.
• Abide by all published AKC rules applying to registration and dog shows.
• Conduct my business relationships with clients in a fair and honest manner, based on a published rate schedule and handler/client agreement.
• Provide my clients with their ribbons, trophies and information about their dogs' placements at each show in a timely manner.
• Provide my clients with itemized monthly billing statements.
• Ensure that my clients thoroughly understand payment and release terms.
• Confirm with any previous handler of a new or prospective client that a valid outstanding balance does not exist, and will not handle any dogs for a client with a valid outstanding balance with a previous professional handler.
• Not solicit business from a current client of another professional handler.
• Avail myself of educational opportunities as may be established by the AKC.
• Inform the handlers department of any change in home or e-mail address, telephone number, kennel facilities or travel vehicles.