Understanding AKC Registration and Why Bernedoodles Can’t Be Registered
What is AKC Registration?
The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a leading organization that registers purebred dogs in the United States. AKC registration certifies that a dog is a recognized purebred and its lineage can be traced through official records. When a dog is AKC-registered, its pedigree is documented in the AKC’s database, and the owner receives a certificate verifying the dog’s registration. This process is important for breeders and buyers who prioritize preserving breed standards and ensuring the dog’s ancestry meets established guidelines.
Benefits of AKC Registration
For purebred dogs, AKC registration offers several advantages, including:
Proof of Lineage: Confirms the dog’s ancestry as a purebred within AKC-recognized breeds.
Eligibility for Competitions: Only AKC-registered dogs can participate in AKC-sanctioned events like conformation shows, obedience trials, and agility competitions.
Breeding Standards: Ensures that breeding pairs meet established criteria for their respective breeds, promoting healthy and ethical breeding practices.
Why Can’t Bernedoodles Be AKC-Registered?
Bernedoodles, as a hybrid breed, are not eligible for AKC registration. The AKC only recognizes purebred dogs that meet specific breed standards and are listed in its official registry. Because Bernedoodles are a cross between the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle, they do not qualify as a purebred breed and therefore cannot be registered with the AKC.
This does not mean Bernedoodles are of lesser value or quality. In fact, the intentional crossbreeding of Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles is designed to create a companion dog that combines the best traits of both parent breeds. However, because they do not have a long, established history as a purebred breed with standardized traits, they fall outside the scope of AKC recognition.
What Does This Mean for Bernedoodle Owners?
While Bernedoodles can’t be AKC-registered, there are alternative registries and certifications available to maintain credibility and ethical breeding practices, including:
Designer Breed Registries: Organizations like the Designer Breed Registry (DBR) or International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR) recognize Bernedoodles and other hybrid breeds.
Health Certifications: Many reputable breeders focus on genetic health testing for both parent dogs and puppies, ensuring that their Bernedoodles meet high health standards, even without AKC recognition.
The Importance of a Reputable Breeder
For potential Bernedoodle owners, AKC registration isn’t a necessary factor when choosing a breeder. What matters most is working with a breeder who prioritizes health, temperament, and ethical practices. At Missouri Bernese and Bernedoodles, we ensure our Bernedoodles are well-socialized, healthy, and bred to be loving family companions. Ready to bring a Bernedoodle into your life? Contact us today to learn more about our available puppies and upcoming litters.