CODE FOR BREEDERS

I. Purpose

This Code applies to all breeders who are members of the World Kennel Group. Its purpose is to provide breeders with a set of mandatory standards and requirements regarding the proper care, breeding, sale, and general protection of their chosen breed(s).

The goal of every breeder is to produce dogs that are healthy and sound, both physically and mentally, to ensure their fitness for purpose.

Every breeder is also obligated to always adhere to ethical standards when purchasing, breeding, selling, and placing their dogs.

II. Breeding Principles

Breeding dogs is a serious responsibility, and the decision to breed should never be taken lightly. To this end, every breeder or potential breeder must be prepared to accept the following general principles:

— Be prepared to invest significant time and financial resources to ensure the implementation of a proper breeding program. — Be prepared to ensure the well-being of the dogs, both while in your care and upon their eventual transfer to their new owners.

— Be prepared to work diligently to preserve and support the breed for future generations through prudent selection of breeding stock.

— Be prepared to share knowledge gained from your own experience with other breeders, especially newcomers.

General Responsibilities

The following is a set of general responsibilities that must be understood and accepted by all WKG member breeders:

— Each breeder must be familiar with and fully comply with the WKG rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.

— All litters and all dogs in each litter must be registered with the WKG. Litter registration documents must be sent to the WKG member organization as soon as possible after the dogs are born. Upon the sale of each dog from any litter, breeders are required to transfer ownership and register each dog in the name of the purchaser in accordance with the requirements established in the member organization’s country and the WKG rules and regulations.

— Dogs must always be provided with proper housing, nutrition, medical care, and adequate exercise.

— Every breeder must make a good faith effort to study the structure, movement, and behavior of their dogs, understand and be aware of the hereditary traits, congenital and hereditary health problems associated with their breed, and possess basic knowledge of health and first aid.

— Breeders are encouraged to regularly test for health problems and genetic diseases and to openly share the results of all testing performed.

— To achieve the goal of breeding quality dogs, a breeder must prioritize producing dogs that are healthy and sound, both physically and mentally, and selecting breeding stock that meets the requirements defined by the Standard for each breed.

— Use dogs known for their robust health and stable temperament.

— Select both males and females that have reached sufficient maturity to produce and raise healthy offspring. — Ensure that all breeding documents and registrations are available for inspection and are in full order.