The Foundation Stock Service (FSS®) program was developed in 1995 to assist the needs of rare breeds fanciers. Mari-Beth O’Neill, Vice President of Sport Services, and Christine Weisse, Senior Subject Matter Expert, assist these breeds through the process of becoming a fully recognized AKC breed. There are three major steps of the FSS® program: Acceptance […]

While many dog owners and their partners gladly share their sleeping space with their dogs, others may disagree about having a dog in the bed.

AKC Breeders of Merit share tips on how to groom a German Shepherd Dog, from best brushes to dealing with nails.

Wondering how to groom a Standard Poodle? Here's everything you need to know about caring for your Poodle's coat, skin, nails, and more.

Breeders of Merit are entitled to several benefits. Are you taking full advantage of yours? Online Credit. You receive up to $30 per month credit in your MyAKC account for purchase of downloadable reports from the AKC Store. Credits are refreshed on the 15th of each month. Downloadable reports include (but are not limited to) […]

Breeder of Merit FAQs [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Prepaid Registrations In Breeder Toolkit"] If you plan to use the prepaid option to register all of the puppies – Do not select the electronic (downloadable) litter kit when you register the litter. That will disable the prepaid option. You are able to send an individual Registration Application for […]

Whether you’re breeding your first litter or next Best in Show winner, we offer invaluable resources for dog breeders, including up-to-date information, ongoing educational programs and more: Litter Registration Show you are a responsible breeder and that your puppies meet breed standards! When you register your litters with the AKC, you get a Registration Certificate […]

Thank you for your participation in the recent AKC Inspection of your dogs, records, and facilities. AKC has compiled a quick reference list of links to forms, regulations, and commonly requested programs for you. Register My Dog Forms Ownership Records Form Litter Records Form Emergency Preparedness Form Regulations Regulations for Record Keeping & Identification of […]

The following breeders have met the requirements for the Breed and Levels recorded at the time of the application. The American Kennel Club is pleased to recognize these breeders for their contribution to the sport and maintaining the tenets of the Breeder of Merit program. (current as of  3/12/26, last updated 3/13/26) [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Platinum"] […]

Here’s everything you’ll need prior to joining the Breeder of Merit program:  Have a history of at least 5 years involvement with AKC events  Can demonstrate a commitment to individually registering 100 percent of the puppies you’ve bred Have earned either AKC Conformation, Performance, or Companion* event titles on at least four dogs from AKC […]