We are PROUD to be a part of AKC's Breed with H.E.A.R.T. Program!
What is “Breed with H.E.A.R.T.”?
The American Kennel Club (AKC) created a program called “Breed with H.E.A.R.T.” as an optional program for breeders to voluntarily be a part of. The goal with this program is for breeders to be more conscious of what they are breeding for, what their goals are, and how to breed for improvement and bettering of the breed chosen.
What does “H.E.A.R.T.” mean?
HEALTH
EDUCATION
ACCOUNTABILITY
RESPONSIBILITY
TRADITION
What are the requirements to be a part of the program?
For a breeder to join the program (and each year following), they must:
(1) Certify that their dogs are fully HEALTH tested and continue to test future dogs.
(2) Continue to attend continuing EDUCATION courses through AKC.
(3) Be ACCOUNTABLE to AKC for how puppies are raised. This is done through ongoing consent to unannounced AKC inspections.
(4) Be RESPONSIBLE for every puppy produced.
(5) Keep and preserve the breed’s specific TRADITION and the overall tradition of breeding.
Why is the program important to us?
Joining AKC’s Breed with H.E.A.R.T. program was the easiest thing we have done as breeders. Simply because we were already breeding with HEALTH, EDUCATION, ACCOUNTABILITY, RESPONSIBILITY, and TRADITION in mind from the beginning. We found our own breeding goals to match the purpose of this AKC program. The way in which we decide to breed is something we are exceptionally passionate about! Having AKC create a program that encourages other breeders to breed as we have has been encouraging for us! Overall, we have been happy to be a part of this program, to contribute, and to further the betterment of breeding.
Why should the program be important to those looking for their next Doberman puppy?
Finding a breeder who not only breeds the type of dog you are looking for, but who breeds in a manner in which you agree with can be difficult. The vast majority of the most responsible and ethical breeders breed with health and tradition in mind. They are honest, responsible, accountable, and educated. They require of their puppy buyers to be educated, accountable, and responsible themselves. By finding a breeder who is a part of the AKC Breed with H.E.A.R.T. program, you can ensure that your next family member is coming from a breeding program that is breeding for the right reasons and putting the betterment of the breed first!