The best way to ensure a long and happy relationship with a purebred dog is to purchase from a responsible breeder. While the AKC does not endorse or recommend specific breeders, we do offer several resources to locate breeders. The AKC recommends puppy buyers begin the search process by contacting the AKC Parent Club. Please [...]

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 [...]

Your go-to resource for all-things breeder!  What is AKC Breeder Toolkit? AKC Breeder Toolkit is a FREE online tool created for AKC breeders that centralizes important AKC registration and recordkeeping functions into one location. AKC Breeder Toolkit is the easiest way to maintain records for dog, litter, and puppy registration data.  With AKC Breeder Toolkit [...]

The AKC is the only purebred registry in the United States with an ongoing routine kennel inspection program. The AKC has a dedicated team of field agents who visit kennels to help breeders while ensuring the proper care and conditions of AKC-registered dogs and verify that breeders are maintaining accurate records for their dogs. Since [...]

 Good dogs come from good breeders. Good breeders strive to improve their breeds while considering canine health, temperament, training, and promoting responsible dog ownership. Part art, part science, and total devotion, breeding is exciting and challenging. AKC is here to support you on this amazing journey.   Dog Breeding Fundamentals Course AKC Legacy Breeder Videos [...]

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 [...]

Even if you don’t know Chris Flessner and her husband Bryan, chances are you’ve admired their handiwork: Their homebred “Trumpet” (GChB Flessner’s Toot My Own Horn) was the Westminster Kennel Club’s 2022 Best in Show winner, shown by professional handler Heather Buehner, who is also his co-breeder and co-owner. While this year [...]

Thinking of Buying a Puppy? Find a Responsible Breeder. Don't be put off if a breeder isn't immediately responsive. Hobby breeders often have full-time jobs and they don't always have available puppies. Be selective. Find a responsible breeder who is knowledgeable and make sure you're comfortable with them. Visit the breeder's home or kennel and [...]

Breeders that participate in the AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. program enjoy these benefits: Bred with H.E.A.R.T. Program Logos Logos will be on both AKC dog registration applications & certificates Breed Specific Web Banners Web banners may be used to promote program acceptance on your website. Litter and [...]