Bred with H.E.A.R.T

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As part of AKC’s century-long commitment to advance the health and welfare of all dogs, the AKC has a new program called Bred with H.E.A.R.T. The program gives AKC a new way to engage, encourage and recognize breeders who meet specific health testing standards and who participate in continuing education. Keep reading to learn more about the specific commitments that an AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. breeder makes to the health and well-being of their dogs.

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An AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T breeder makes an on-going commitment to the health and well-being of purebred dogs by committing to these program requirements:

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• Have registered at least one AKC litter within the past 5 years

• Be in good standing with the AKC

• Certify that applicable health screens are performed on breeding stock as recommended by the respective AKC Breed Parent Club and be prepared to supply proof of such compliance upon request

• Must agree to comply with the AKC Care and Conditions Policy, including inspection(s) by the American Kennel Club or its duly authorized representative

• Must agree to comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations regarding the ownership and maintenance of dogs

• Must agree to complete AKC-approved and/or AKC-provided continuing breeder education courses annually

• Must complete the online application process and pay an annual fee

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AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. Program FAQs

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In March 2014 the AKC Board of Directors approved the development of a program for all breeders. The program’s intent is to improve the health and well-being of purebred dogs by challenging breeders to meet health testing standards and participate in continuing education. The program will provide marketing and other support for those breeders who accept the challenges of participation.

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1. Why is AKC offering this program to its breeders? Bred With H.E.A.R.T. not only allows AKC to engage and educate a wide scope of breeders on best breeding practices, including health testing, it also creates a resource for the public to find puppies from responsible breeders who are demonstrating a commitment to health testing. The Bred with H.E.A.R.T. logo will directly connect consumers to breeders who agree to the commitment.

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2. What does H.E.A.R.T. stand for? An AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. breeder makes an on-going commitment to the health and well-being of purebred dogs by committing to these program requirements:

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HEALTH

Certifying that their breeding stock is health tested in accordance with the recommendations of their breeds AKC Breed Parent Club.

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EDUCATION

Promising that they will pursue AKC provided or AKC approved continuing breeder education so that they stay current on the best breeding practices, including advances in canine health.

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ACCOUNTABILITY

Agreeing to comply with the AKC Care and Conditions Policy, including inspections by the AKC, and promising to share with AKC health testing and continuing education documentation.

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RESPONSIBILITY

Accepting responsibility for the health and well-being of the puppies they produce and for complying with all laws regarding the ownership and maintenance of dogs.

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TRADITION

Upholding the AKC's tradition of breeding purebred dogs that are happy and healthy.