Here at the AKC, we believe in honoring responsible breeders who have gone above and beyond on health issues, temperament, and genetic screening, as well as to the individual care and placement of puppies in responsible homes. That’s why we started the AKC Breeder of Merit Program: To give breeders a way to prove [...]

Harold (“Red”) Tatro III and Denise Tatro of Redglen Lakeland Terriers and Whippets value versatility in their lives as well as their dogs. In the fancy for more than a half-century, this couple from Crowley, Texas, has spanned multiple groups and events with their interests and breeding activities, from conformation to earth dog trials to […]

Leopards don’t change their spots, and neither do reputable Dalmatian breeders. Nothing can dampen their enthusiasm for the spotted dogs that have captured their hearts, as well as their couches. Patti Strand of Portland, Ore., has bred Dalmatians with her husband Rod under their Merry-Go-Round (MGR) affix for almost half a century. A former American […]

The AKC Breeder of Merit program was introduced in October 2010. Since that time, more than 13,000 breeders have been enrolled. The program was developed to recognize those breeders that are the foundation of our sport through their participation in various AKC events and dedication to selective breeding of healthy purpose-bred purebred dogs. The Basic […]

Breeders of Merit are entitled to several benefits. Are you taking full advantage of yours? Gifts. Breeders of Merit get an appreciation gift for each litter in which 100% of the puppies are individually registered. The current gift is a $5 credit code that can be used for online litters or mailed in registrations. Just […]

Breeder of Merit Application (PDF) Use this form to apply for Breeder of Merit or for additional breeds Breeder of Merit Advanced Recognition Application (PDF) Use this form if you are currently an enrolled Breeder of Merit and wish to apply for an advanced level of Breeder of Merit Breeder of Merit Titles Report Order […]

If you're a musician, there's the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. If you're an actor, there are the Oscars. And if you're a dog breeder, the maraschino cherry atop a lifetime of hard work is to be named an American Kennel Club Breeder of the Year. After all, anyone can have a one-hit wonder, […]

Information about the requirements and benefits of the AKC Breeder of Merit program. Because Breeder of Merit is not simply a one-time recognition, breeders who want to be considered for it must apply for the program. Successful applicants can be recognized for their work with more than one breed. Breeders of Merit are recorded in […]

  Search here for breeders who have met the requirements to be a Breeder of Merit.   Breeder of Merit sponsored by Royal Canin