What does AKC mean and does it make a dog any better?
American Kennel Club, simply the organization that keeps the registrations of ‘purebreed’ dogs. It used to mean something and still does to some extent, but it only mens something as far as people are honest and dedicated breeder. Better is subjective, as it may depend on what you want in a dog. If you want a certain type of dog for a particular reason, it’s easier to find among AKC dogs which should be bred to a certain type and standard. And among those dogs there are very hardworking, dedicated breeders who really care about what kind of dogs they breed, whether they are sound and of good temperament. It’s true a mutt or dog you find at the shelter can be a very good companion, if you want something more or would like to have some health assurances, the AKC with a purebred dog is a good place to start looking so you can find those terrific breeders. I don’t think that anyone with just a dog should have puppies.
The AKC is a registry, nothing more. What the papers “mean” depends on the integrity of the breeder. A 5 generation pedigree displaying a majority of dogs who have earned titles- either Championship or Performance (ideally, both) is more important than the papers itself. Equally important is the breeder showing you proof of all the appropriate health tests- OFA for hips and elbows, CERF for eyes, etc. Without the above, “AKC papers” are worth about as much as the ones a puppy pees on 🙂 Think of the AKC like the Dept. of Motor Vehicles. If you get a title on a new car, it basically tells you what kind of car it is, how many miles it has on it, and what you paid for it. It gives no information as to whether or not the car is mechanically sound, was well maintained, or if it’s been in a wreck or a flood, etc. If you trust the person selling you the car, and if he/she can show you proof of maintenance, etc…then chances are, you’re getting a good car.
AKC=American Kennel Club. “Better” is so subjective that you can’t really get a true answer. It means that some people (those in the ‘club’) think the dog is better. So far, i haven’t met any dog who could read the papers the AKC issues. Fabulous dogs have existed since long before the AKC and will be great companions and workers long after it is out of business. Basically, it means that that the dog meets certain standards that certain people think are important. Nothing wrong with this, if it’s what you want. I’ve had half-breed dogs that were amazingly, smart, loyal and affectionate. Hope this gives a little insight.
