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Science and research | Breed standards | Accredited Breeder Scheme

What The Kennel Club is doing to further improve the health of pedigree dogs

Responsible breeding and the Accredited Breeder Scheme

The Kennel Club works closely with breeders in order to ensure the future health of pedigree dogs is ensured and it is thanks to time, money and dedication from all involved that the health of pedigree dogs is continually improving.

The Kennel Club’s Accredited Breeder Scheme was developed to encourage the breeding of healthy, well adjusted puppies and over 2,500 breeders have signed up to the scheme – and the number continues to grow.

Accredited Breeders agree to use health screening schemes, relevant to their breed, on all breeding stock. These schemes include DNA testing, and testing for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and inherited eye conditions.

Additionally, Accredited Breeders will follow a number of other guidelines to ensure that their puppies are in the best possible health; for example ensuring that their breeding stock is health tested and that potential buyers see the puppies with their mother.

The Accredited Breeder Scheme gives buyers the peace of mind that the puppies have been bred with concern for welfare, rather than profit.

The Kennel Club’s puppy finding website www.findapuppy.org.uk enables buyers to identify Accredited Breeders in their area that have a litter available.

There are thousands of responsible breeders that register puppies with the Kennel Club and that follow recommended health checks and responsible breeding practices. The Kennel Club does not have legal or statutory powers to make breeders follow healthy and responsible breeding practices – but by having breeders register puppies with us, we have the opportunity to influence them and a better chance to educate and encourage them to follow the most responsible breeding practices for the welfare of all dogs.