News From Our American Member
Congratulations to Ikuko Hisaka of Elfin Bolognese who is the first Bolognese breeder to receive a Breeder of Merit Certificate and pin from the American Kennel Club. The main picture is Ikuko’s girl Elfin’s Jane. Here is the criteria…
About the Breeder of Merit Program
The AKC Breeder of Merit program celebrates breeders who go above and beyond to prioritize the health, temperament, and well-being of their puppies. This program recognizes those dedicated to maintaining breed standards and ensuring their AKC-registerable puppies find loving homes.
As a Breeder of Merit, you’ll show your commitment to our mission by health testing and individually registering 100% of your puppies, while setting a strong example for breeders everywhere.
Program Requirements
- The Breeder of Merit Program is open to all purebred dog breeders that meet the following requirements:
- Have a history of at least 5 years involvement with AKC events
- Have earned AKC Conformation, Performance or Companion event titles on a minimum of 4 dogs from AKC litters they bred or co-bred
- Be a member of an AKC club
- Certify that applicable health screens are performed on your breeding stock, as recommended by your breed’s Parent Club
- Demonstrate that 100% of the puppies produced are individually AKC registered
