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Code of Ethics
for Breeders

Breeder - Code of ethics

THE NEDERLANDSE KOOIKERHONDJE CLUB OF CANADA

CODE OF ETHICS FOR BREEDERS

APPENDIX A

All prospective members will affirm that they will comply with the Code of Ethics by signature on their application for membership. Each member will reaffirm compliance annually when membership is renewed.

If you are applying for Breeder membership as a breeder and/or owner of a stud dog and wish to be included on the Nederlandse Kooikerhondje Club of Canada (NKCC) Breeders Listing you are also agreeing to comply with the NKCC Code of Ethics for Breeders.

Any member of the Nederlandse Kooikerhondje Club of Canada who, in the opinion of the Executive, contravenes this Code of Ethics may be subject to reprimand, suspension or expulsion from the Club’s Breeder’s List, and/or from Club membership as provided for in the Club By-Laws.

Definition of a Breeder:

A breeder is defined as “any person who owns, leases or is responsible for any bitch or dog that is bred, with the intent of producing a litter.”

Breeder’s Code of Ethics

All NKCC breeders should promote and foster high standards among fellow breeders, owners, and fanciers to improve and advance the breeds in which they are involved. This code of ethics should serve as a cornerstone for a breeder's accountability and responsibility to the animals in their charge and the potential new owners of the dogs they produce. Breeders have the responsibility to avoid any conditions or exaggerations that are detrimental to the health, welfare, essence and soundness of a breed, and must take the responsibility to see that these are not perpetuated.

Records

  • I will keep accurate records and retain those records consistent with CKC registration policies. These records will include, but are not limited to: stud service documents, pedigrees, all litters produced, breeding and whelp dates, and all dogs/puppies sold.

  • I will provide requested litter and health information to the Dutch Breed Club, the Vereniging Het Nederlandse Kooikerhondje (VHNK) directly or via the NKCC for inclusion in the pedigree database.

Breeding

  • I shall plan each breeding with the paramount intention of improving the breed.

  • I will provide the appropriate documentation for those concerned regarding the results of any health testing, or will disclose if any such examinations have not been done.

  • I will select stud dogs and brood bitches by evaluating conformation, temperament and ability with a careful study of the breed standard and the principles of genetics.

  • I will not breed any stud dog or brood bitch until they are both physically and mentally mature. Healthy dogs should be over the age of 18 months and bitches over the age of 24 months, and not more than 8 years of age.

  • I will not knowingly breed monorchids, cryptorchids, dogs with serious defects or with temperaments that are reactive out of proportion to situations.

  • I will only breed dogs that have traits or genetics that are beneficial to the future of the breed keeping the health of the dog and the breed standard in mind.

Health

  • As a breeder of the Nederlandse Kooikerhondje, I will strive to maintain a rich and diverse gene pool, understanding that diversity is important for the long-term health of my breed.

  • I will give the highest health priority to the selection of my breeding stock and will not continue to breed dogs that perpetuate inheritable disorders.

  • I will maintain high standards of health and care for my dogs and provide people with puppies that are healthy and free from parasites.

  • A CHIC number will be obtained prior to breeding the bitch, and should be available on the stud prior to the birth of the puppies

Sales

  • I will be selective in the sales of my puppies, and take care with the type of homes in which they are placed.

  • My dogs/puppies will not be sold to dog wholesalers, retailers, pet shops, or at auctions.

  • I will refrain from releasing any puppy until it is a minimum 8 weeks of age.

  • I agree to assist with rehoming puppies produced by me for their lifetime, should the need arise.

Advertising and Relations

  • My advertising of dogs/puppies will be factual and honest, both in substance and implication.

  • I believe breeding purebred dogs involves certain responsibilities, and I will not take it lightly.

  • I will not advertise my dogs/puppies as CKC registered if they are not.