DKC Proposed Code of Ethics

1. I will consider the welfare of my breed when engaged in any activities involved in breeding, exhibiting, training and selling of dogs and will refrain from any activities which would be prejudicial to the best interests of my breed, dogs, purebred or mixed breed, and this club.

2. I agree to follow the regulations of the American Kennel Club as they pertain to my purebred dog operations and to abide by the Constitution, Bylaws, and Code of Ethics of the Durango Kennel Club.

3. I will provide the best possible standards of canine health, cleanliness, and care for my dogs and any placed in my care. I will see that all my puppies are immunized and checked for parasites. I will furnish complete health records, care, feeding and grooming instructions for each puppy I sell.

4. I will not engage in and will discourage the indiscriminate breeding of dogs. I will use a spay/neuter contract or limited registration in the sale of puppies that as adults should not be in a breeding program due to inherited faults and/or conditions, either physical or temperamental.

5. I will not breed for, sell consign, or give puppies or adults to pet shops, brokers (retailers), commercial dog wholesalers, dealers, research facilities or to be donated as prizes in raffles or contests. I will not purchase puppies from brokers for resale or breeding purposes. I will not give stud services to bitches not registered with the American Kennel Club or breed my bitches to studs not registered with the American Kennel Club.

6. I will, to the best of my ability, place puppies only in home where the owners understand and are prepared to undertake their commitment to responsible dog ownership for the life of the dog. I accept the premise that if I breed a litter or am the owner of a stud for a litter, I am responsible for all the offspring throughout their lifetimes.

7. I will recognize my responsibility to the community in the area of animal welfare and dog legislation.

8. I will conduct myself at all times in such a manner as to reflect credit on all phases of purebred and mixed breed dog activities and my breed(s). I will try at all times to show good sportsmanship and to keep in mind that the good of my breed(s) and the welfare of my dogs come before any personal benefit.