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What Do the AKC, UKC & Continental Kennel Club Dog Registries Do for Owners & Breeders?

AKC, UKC & Continental Kennel Club Dog Registry FAQs: When & why were they created? What resources do they provide owners & breeders? How do they work together?

From Javi’s French Bulldogs & American XL Bullies Breeder | Sherman, TX

What Do the AKC, UKC & Continental Kennel Club Dog Registries Do for Owners & Breeders?

AKC, UKC & Continental Kennel Club Dog Registry FAQs: When & why were they created? What resources do they provide owners & breeders? How do they work together?

From Javi’s French Bulldogs & American XL Bullies Breeder | Sherman, TX

If you’re ready for the expense and hassle of purchasing a purebred dog, it makes sense to register him as such. Why invest in such an impressive animal if you don’t have bragging rights about his bloodline?

However, once you go to register your pup you might be in for a surprise. It turns out there’s more than one breed registry out there; there are three major ones. How can you figure out the differences between them, and more importantly, which one is the best for your dog?

If you are a dog owner (certainly if you are a breeder), you’ve probably heard of the AKC, UKC, or the Continental Kennel Club, the three major breed registries for dogs. But what are these registries, and what do they do for you and your dogs?

In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about these registries, such as: (1) What are the AKC, UKC, and Continental Kennel Club, and when and why were they founded? (2) What are the benefits and services that these registries offer to dog owners and breeders? (3) How do these registries differ in their breed recognition, registration, and event policies and procedures? (4) How do these registries work together and complement each other in promoting and supporting the health, welfare, and diversity of dogs and breeds?

By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of the AKC, UKC, and Continental Kennel Club dog registries, and how they can help you and your dogs enjoy the world of purebred dogs. This should help you make an informed choice about which registry to use to register your dog.

What are the AKC, UKC, and Continental Kennel Clubs?

The AKC stands for the American Kennel Club, which is the largest and oldest dog breed registry in the United States. It was founded in 1884 by a group of American and Canadian breeders who wanted to establish standards and rules for purebred dogs. The AKC currently recognizes and registers 193 breeds and varieties of dogs, and oversees competitions like dog shows, field trials, and performance events. The AKC also provides education, advocacy, and health programs for dog owners and breeders [1].
The UKC stands for the United Kennel Club, which is the second-largest dog breed registry in the United States. It was founded in 1898 by Chauncey Bennett, who wanted to create a registry that focused on the working abilities and performance of dogs, rather than their appearance. The UKC currently recognizes more than 300 breeds, and divides them into eight groups based on their historical function: Guardian Dog, Scenthound, Sighthound and Pariah, Gun Dog, Northern Breed, Herding Dog, Terrier, and Companion Dog. The UKC also organizes events such as weight pulls, obedience, agility, and rally [2].
The Continental Kennel Club is a dog breed registry formed in the 1990s as an alternative to the AKC and UKC. It recognizes many breeds not recognized by these other registries, and offers more flexibility and options for dog owners and breeders. The Continental Kennel Club does not have a fixed number of breeds, but rather allows new breeds to be registered through its Canine Development Program. The Continental Kennel Club also provides services such as pedigree certificates, litter registrations, DNA profiling, and microchip identification [3][4].

Why was the AKC organized? What is significant about the AKC founders?

The AKC was organized to provide a uniform and authoritative system of registration, classification, and judging of purebred dogs in the United States. The AKC founders were mostly wealthy and influential dog owners who were involved in the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, which was the first dog show in America. The AKC founders wanted to promote the breeding and exhibition of purebred dogs, and to protect their interests and standards from fraud and deception. Some of the notable AKC founders were James Mortimer, the superintendent of the Westminster Kennel Club; August Belmont Jr., a financier and horse breeder; and William G. Rockefeller, a businessman and philanthropist [1][5].

Why was the UKC organized? What is significant about the UKC founders?

The UKC was organized to provide a registry that valued the working abilities and performance of dogs, rather than their appearance. The UKC founder, Chauncey Bennett, was a dog lover and breeder who was dissatisfied with the AKC’s emphasis on conformation and pedigree. He wanted to create a registry that would encourage dog owners to test and prove their dogs’ skills and instincts in various activities and sports. He also wanted to make the registry more accessible and affordable for the average dog owner. Bennett was the first to register the American Pit Bull Terrier, a breed that was excluded by the AKC, and he also introduced the concept of dual registration, which allowed dogs to be registered with both the UKC and the AKC[2].

Why was the Continental Kennel Club organized? What is significant about the Continental Kennel Club founders?

The Continental Kennel Club was organized to provide a registry that offered more flexibility and options for dog owners and breeders, especially those who were interested in developing new breeds or crossbreeding existing ones. The Continental Kennel Club founders were not well-known or influential, but rather ordinary dog enthusiasts who wanted to create a registry that would cater to their needs and preferences. They also wanted to provide a registry that was more user-friendly and customer-oriented, and that would use modern technology and methods to improve their services[3].

How do the AKC, UKC, and Continental Kennel Club help ensure standards related to new breed development, genetic safety issues regarding possible cross breeding issues, establishment of best practices regarding breeding and related issues.

The AKC, UKC, and Continental Kennel Club have different approaches and criteria for new breed development and recognition. The AKC has a strict and lengthy process that requires a breed to have a documented history, a written standard, a parent club, and a minimum number of dogs and breeders in the United States. The breed must also pass a series of evaluations and inspections by the AKC staff and judges before being admitted to the AKC Foundation Stock Service, the Miscellaneous Class, and finally the regular AKC registry. The AKC does not allow crossbreeding between recognized breeds, and discourages breeding practices that may compromise the health and welfare of dogs [1].
The UKC has a more flexible and open process that allows new breeds to be registered through its Performance Listing Program, which accepts dogs of unknown ancestry or mixed breeds that can participate in UKC events. The UKC also has a Provisional Breed Program, which allows new breeds to be registered if they have a written standard, a parent club, and at least 300 dogs with three-generation pedigrees. The UKC does not have a fixed number of breeds, but rather adds or removes breeds based on their popularity and participation in UKC events. The UKC allows crossbreeding between recognized breeds, and encourages breeding practices that enhance the working abilities and performance of dogs[2].
The Continental Kennel Club has a very simple and easy process that allows new breeds to be registered through its Canine Development Program, which accepts dogs of any breed or crossbreed that have a written standard, a photograph, and a completed application form. The Continental Kennel Club does not have a fixed number of breeds, but rather allows new breeds to be created and registered by dog owners and breeders. The Continental Kennel Club allows crossbreeding between any breeds, and supports breeding practices that reflect the individual goals and preferences of dog owners and breeders[3].

What type of information do the AKC, UKC, and Continental Kennel Club offer to the general public to help them decide which type dogs are most suitable for them based on a number of criteria?

The AKC, UKC, and Continental Kennel Club offer various types of information and resources to the general public to help them learn about different dog breeds and choose the best one for their lifestyle.

Some of the information and resources they offer are:

Breed profiles: All three registries provide detailed descriptions of each breed they recognize, including their history, characteristics, temperament, grooming, exercise, health, and suitability for different environments and activities. The AKC and the UKC also divide their breeds into groups based on their original function, such as Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, Herding, and Companion. The AKC and the UKC also have breed standards, which are the official guidelines for the ideal appearance and structure of each breed[1][2][3].
Breed selector tools: The AKC and the UKC have online tools that allow users to answer a series of questions about their preferences, lifestyle, and expectations, and then receive a list of breeds that match their criteria. The tools also provide information and tips on how to care for and train each breed, and links to breeders and rescue groups. The Continental Kennel Club does not have a breed selector tool, but rather encourages users to contact them directly for advice and guidance on choosing a breed[1][2][3].
Breed health information: The AKC and the UKC have health programs and initiatives that aim to improve the health and well-being of dogs, and to educate the public about the health issues and risks that affect different breeds. The AKC has the Canine Health Foundation, which funds research and provides resources on various health topics, such as cancer, epilepsy, eye diseases, and genetic testing. The UKC has the Health and Genetics Committee, which develops policies and recommendations on health testing and screening, and provides information on health conditions and disorders that affect different breeds. The Continental Kennel Club does not have a specific health program, but rather provides general information and advice on health care and prevention for dogs[1][2][3][4].
Breed comparison tools: The AKC and the UKC have online tools that allow users to compare different breeds side by side, and see how they differ in terms of size, appearance, personality, energy, grooming, and health. The tools also provide pros and cons of each breed, and suggestions for other breeds that might suit the user’s needs. The Continental Kennel Club does not have a breed comparison tool, but rather encourages users to research and compare different breeds on their own, or to contact them for assistance[1][2][3].

What are the benefits of registering your dog with the AKC, UKC or Continental Kennel Club and how do they compare?

Registering your dog with the AKC, UKC or CKC has different benefits depending on the type of dog, the purpose of the owner, and the services offered by each club.

Some of the common benefits are:

Access to events and competitions for purebred and mixed breed dogs, such as conformation, agility, obedience, rally, tracking, hunting, and more.
Recognition and documentation of your dog’s pedigree, breed, and ownership.
Eligibility to earn titles and awards for your dog’s achievements and skills.
Participation in health and welfare programs, such as health testing, DNA profiling, microchipping, and disaster relief.
Support and education from breed clubs, experts, and fellow dog enthusiasts.
Discounts and offers on dog products, services, and insurance.
The AKC is the oldest and largest registry of purebred dogs in the United States, and also recognizes some mixed breed dogs through its Purebred Alternative Listing (PAL) program[6]. The AKC has strict standards and requirements for registration, and offers a variety of events and programs for purebred dogs and their owners. The AKC also has a strong influence on legislation, research, and education related to dogs and dog sports.
The UKC is the second oldest and largest registry of purebred dogs in the United States, and also welcomes mixed breed dogs and dogs with unknown pedigrees through its Performance Listing (PL) program³. The UKC focuses on the performance and working abilities of dogs, and offers events and programs that emphasize the natural instincts and versatility of dogs and their owners. The UKC also promotes responsible dog ownership and sportsmanship, and prohibits the use of professional handlers in its conformation shows.
The CKC is a registry of purebred and non-purebred dogs in the United States, and also accepts dogs with unknown or mixed ancestry through its Non-Purebred Registration program[10]. The CKC aims to provide affordable and accessible registration and services for all dogs and their owners, and offers events and programs that are open to all dogs regardless of their pedigree. The CKC also supports the development and recognition of new and rare breeds, and encourages the preservation of genetic diversity in dogs[11].

What are the requirements of registering your dog with the AKC, UKC or Continental Kennel Club and how do they compare?

The requirements of registering your dog with the AKC, UKC or CKC vary depending on the type of registration, the breed of the dog, and the origin of the dog.

Some of the general requirements are:

For purebred registration, the dog must belong to one of the recognized breeds by the respective club, and have a complete and verifiable pedigree from a reputable registry. The dog must also meet the breed standard and be free of any disqualifying faults or genetic defects. The dog’s parents must both be registered with the same club, and the litter must be registered by the breeder before the individual dog can be registered by the owner. Some clubs may also require DNA testing, microchipping, or other forms of identification for purebred registration[12][13][14].
For mixed breed or non-purebred registration, the dog does not need to have a pedigree or belong to a specific breed, but must be spayed or neutered and have a permanent form of identification, such as a microchip or a tattoo. The dog must also be in good health and temperament, and be free of any serious genetic defects or diseases. The owner must provide basic information about the dog, such as its name, sex, color, and date of birth, and pay a registration fee to the respective club [7].
For foreign or domestic registration, the dog must already be registered with another reputable registry, either in the United States or in another country, and have a valid certificate of registration and a certified pedigree. The owner must submit copies of these documents, along with photographs of the dog and a registration fee, to the respective club. The club may also require DNA testing, microchipping, or other forms of identification for foreign or domestic registration. The club may also have a list of acceptable or unacceptable registries for foreign or domestic registration[6][8][19][20].

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Why does the UKC allow mixed breeds and dogs with unknown pedigrees to participate in UKC events?

The UKC allows mixed breeds and dogs with unknown pedigrees to participate in UKC events because it believes that all dogs have the potential to perform and enjoy dog sports, regardless of their ancestry or appearance. The UKC also values the working abilities and natural instincts of dogs over their conformation or pedigree, and encourages owners to train and compete with their dogs in various activities. The UKC also aims to be inclusive and welcoming to all dog owners and enthusiasts, and to promote responsible dog ownership and sportsmanship[9].

Why did AKC choose not to allow mixed breeds and dogs with unknown pedigrees to participate in AKC events?

The AKC did not allow mixed breeds and dogs with unknown pedigrees to participate in AKC events until 2009, when it launched its PAL program for mixed breed dogs. Before that, the AKC only recognized purebred dogs and their owners, and focused on the preservation and improvement of purebred dog breeds. The AKC also had strict standards and requirements for registration and participation in its events, and aimed to maintain the integrity and accuracy of its registry. The AKC also had a strong influence on legislation, research, and education related to dogs and dog sports[7].

What is the Continental Kennel Club’s policy on mixed breeds and dogs with unknown pedigrees?

The CKC allows mixed breeds and dogs with unknown pedigrees to participate in CKC events because it wants to provide affordable and accessible registration and services for all dogs and their owners, and to offer events and programs that are open to all dogs regardless of their pedigree. The CKC also supports the development and recognition of new and rare breeds, and encourages the preservation of genetic diversity in dogs. The CKC also strives to be flexible and responsive to the changing needs and preferences of dog owners and enthusiasts[11].

Is there something about the founders or circumstances about the founders of the AKC and UKC that caused the AKC to be stricter about the breeds they recognize? How does this compare with circumstances of the founding of the Continental Kennel Club?

The founders and circumstances of the AKC and UKC may have influenced their different approaches to the recognition of dog breeds. The AKC was founded in 1884 by a group of 13 breed clubs, mostly from the Northeast, who wanted to have a consistent set of rules and standards for dog shows and field trials. The AKC was influenced by the British Kennel Club, which had a long history and tradition of breeding and showing purebred dogs. The AKC also catered to the wealthy and elite dog owners, who valued the beauty and prestige of purebred dogs[21].
The UKC was founded in 1898 by Chauncey Z. Bennett, a dog fancier and hunter from Michigan, who wanted to create a registry that focused on the performance and working abilities of dogs, rather than their appearance or pedigree. The UKC was inspired by the American Field, a magazine that promoted hunting and field sports. The UKC also appealed to the common and rural dog owners, who valued the versatility and functionality of their dogs[22].
The CKC was founded in 1991 by John D. Spalding, a dog breeder and trainer from Louisiana, who wanted to provide an alternative registry that offered affordable and accessible registration and services for all dogs and their owners, regardless of their pedigree or origin. The CKC was motivated by the increasing demand and popularity of designer breeds, hybrid dogs, and rare breeds, which were not recognized or accepted by other registries. The CKC also aimed to be flexible and responsive to the changing needs and preferences of dog owners and enthusiasts[23].

Is there anything less safe about breeds that about more mixed that AKC wanted to guard against, while the UKC had a different opinion on the issue?

There is no definitive answer to whether mixed breed dogs are less safe than purebred dogs, as safety depends on many factors, such as health, temperament, training, and environment. However, some possible arguments for and against this issue are:

Pro: Mixed breed dogs are less safe than purebred dogs because they are more unpredictable and variable in their traits and behaviors, which may make them more prone to aggression, anxiety, or other behavioral problems. Mixed breed dogs may also inherit genetic defects or diseases from both parents, which may affect their health and well-being. Purebred dogs, on the other hand, are more consistent and reliable in their traits and behaviors, which may make them more suitable and adaptable to specific purposes, such as companionship, service, or protection. Purebred dogs may also benefit from health testing and screening, which may reduce the risk of inherited disorders or diseases.
Con: Mixed breed dogs are not less safe than purebred dogs because they are more diverse and resilient in their traits and behaviors, which may make them more adaptable and versatile to different situations and environments. Mixed breed dogs may also have a lower risk of genetic defects or diseases due to hybrid vigor, which is the increased health and vitality of crossbred animals. Purebred dogs, on the other hand, may suffer from inbreeding depression, which is the reduced fitness and quality of animals due to excessive breeding within a small gene pool. Purebred dogs may also be more susceptible to certain health conditions or disorders that are common or specific to their breed.

What is it about the Continental Kennel Club that allows their registration to be easily transferred to the AKC, while AKC does not recognize UKC registrations at all?

The Continental Kennel Club allows their registration to be easily transferred to the AKC because they have a cooperative agreement with the AKC, which recognizes the CKC as a valid registry for purebred dogs. The CKC also follows the same breed standards and requirements as the AKC for most of the breeds they register, and provides certified pedigrees and certificates of registration that are accepted by the AKC. The AKC does not recognize UKC registrations at all because they do not have a similar agreement with the UKC, and they consider the UKC as a competitor and a rival registry. The AKC also has different breed standards and requirements than the UKC for some of the breeds they register, and does not accept the UKC’s pedigrees or certificates of registration.

What is behind the decision of the UKC to not allow professional handlers at UKC dog shows?

UKC does not allow professional handlers at UKC dog shows because they want to emphasize the owner-handler relationship and the natural abilities of the dogs, rather than their appearance or training. The UKC also wants to create a level playing field and a friendly atmosphere for all participants, and to discourage the commercialization and politicization of dog shows.

What is behind the AKC taking the opposite position and allowing professional handlers at AKC shows? Does the AKC allow non-professional handlers at AKC dog shows?

The AKC allows professional handlers at AKC shows because they want to promote the quality and excellence of purebred dogs and their breeders, and to showcase the skills and expertise of professional handlers. The AKC also wants to attract more spectators and sponsors to their events, and to increase the prestige and recognition of their shows. The AKC does allow non-professional handlers at AKC dog shows, but they may face disadvantages or challenges compared to professional handlers, such as lack of experience, resources, or connections.

What are the rules of the Continental Kennel Club regarding this issue?

The CKC does not have a specific rule regarding professional handlers at CKC dog shows, but they generally allow them if they follow the same rules and regulations as other participants. The CKC also encourages owner-handlers to participate in their events, and offers special awards and recognition for them.

How does the UKC emphasis on owner-handler relationships versus AKC allowing professional handlers at its AKC dog shows reflect on the core differences of each organization’s philosophy?

The UKC’s emphasis on owner-handler relationships versus AKC’s allowing professional handlers at its AKC dog shows reflects on the core differences of each organization’s philosophy. The UKC’s philosophy is to value the performance and working abilities of dogs, rather than their appearance or pedigree, and to encourage owners to train and compete with their dogs in various activities and sports. The UKC’s philosophy is also to be inclusive and welcoming to all dog owners and enthusiasts, and to promote responsible dog ownership and sportsmanship. The AKC’s philosophy is to value the preservation and improvement of purebred dog breeds, and to encourage breeders to produce and exhibit quality and excellence in their dogs. The AKC’s philosophy is also to have a consistent and authoritative system of registration, classification, and judging of purebred dogs, and to influence legislation, research, and education related to dogs and dog sports.

How does the Continental Kennel Club compare in this owner-handler versus professional handler issue?

The CKC’s philosophy is to provide affordable and accessible registration and services for all dogs and their owners, regardless of their pedigree or origin, and to offer events and programs that are open to all dogs. The CKC’s philosophy is also to support the development and recognition of new and rare breeds, and to encourage the preservation of genetic diversity in dogs.

At Javi’s French Bulldogs & American XL Bullies Breeder, we not only want to provide you with the best value in your choice of the dogs we offer; we want to help inform you so that you make a choice that will be best for you and your pet – even if that means you realize that a French Bulldog or American XL Bullie is not for you!

In this article, “What Do the AKC, UKC & Continental Kennel Club Dog Registries Do for Owners & Breeders?”, we hope to help you make an informed decision about whether a French Bulldog or American XL Bully is the right dog for you and your family.