American Kennel Club Breeding Guidelines

The American Kennel Club has breeding guidelines, or standards, for each breed of dog that it recognizes. Breeders are encouraged to breed animals that fall within guidelines to preserve the qualities that make each breed distinct and desirable. Each breed will have guidelines that are unique to it, such as size, coat and gait. There are a number of categories under these guidelines.

  1. Size

    • The American Kennel Club gives breeders guidelines on the size of a particular breed. Guidelines on size include height at the shoulder and length of the body, with each being proportionate to each other. Typically, the acceptable range for height and length is given in inches and if the animal does not fall within the range, it can be disqualified from the show ring.

    Conformation

    • Dogs should possess physical characteristics that reflect the ideal for the breed. This includes overall appearance, the shape and size of the head, the topline and the breadth of the chest and hind quarters. Conformation guidelines may also take into account the straightness of the legs and how they are set on the body, the tail set and the animal's overall physical conditioning.

    Coat

    • Each breed has certain coat guidelines. This includes the allowed color or colors of the coat, as well as the length and feel of the coat. In a show situation, the style of cut and the condition of the coat may be taken into account as well.

    Temperament

    • Temperament guidelines are partially based on the breed's history and partially on the type of job for which the breed was originally bred. This might include protection, companionship, herding or rodent control. Temperament includes the level of responsiveness or loyalty to the handler and may include bravery, aggressiveness or energy level.

    Gait

    • Gait guidelines, or how the dog moves, include the straightness and accuracy of the animal's footfalls, its pace and stride -- whether short and quick, long and flowing or another combination suitable to the breed -- and the power and flexion demonstrated in its stride.