Copied from: http://clubs.akc.org/brit/abc_code_of_ethics.htm
on 2-24-06.
AMERICAN BRITTANY CLUB CODE OF ETHICS
Adopted November 30, 1996
The following principles are to be used as an educational guide and a tool for Brittany breeders for the purpose to develop more genetic and disease free dogs, while being ethical in all matters with the public and with our peers.
Objective and Purpose
To promote cooperation and friendship among the breeders and owners of Brittanys and to encourage higher standards in breeding, training and showing of Brittanys in the field and in the show ring; to discourage the breed from becoming split into groups of "field dogs" and "show dogs" and to strive to keep it forever a "dual dog".
Ethical breeders should:
1. Comply with all ABC and AKC rules and regulations.
2. Maintain a high standard of health, care, and cleanliness for dogs under one's care.
3. Truthfully and realistically represent the Brittany being bred and/or sold in terms of quality, health, and genetic history. Refrain from breeding a bitch or using a stud until they are two (2) years old.
4. Consult with your breeder and with knowledgeable, experienced members of the ABC, regional clubs, or local kennel clubs to broaden your understanding and knowledge of the history of the breed BEFORE breeding your Brittany.
5. Breed only stock which are physically and temperamentally sound and in good health. No dog or bitch should be bred that is known to have serious inheritable defects or genetic diseases, such as:
- canine hip/elbow dysplasia, primary epilepsy, a seizure disorder,
- eye disorders - retinal atrophy, undescended testicles,
- heart defects, extreme shyness, viciousness, other inheritable diseases or defects
6. Not attempt breeding without the ability to distinguish between correct and incorrect physical attributes. This ability requires a careful study of the breed standard, principles of genetics, and a study of both the sire and the dam's pedigrees. Breeders should study and learn the good points within our dogs, looking to both field ability and conformation.
7. Have their breeding stock OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals), GDC (Genetic Disease Control) or PennHip certification numbers for hips on, at least, both the sire and the dam; preferably for three (3) generations on both sides of the pedigree. In addition, other tests (brucellosis, eyes, elbows, and other unspecified tests) should be declared in agreement between owners of the sire and the dam prior to breeding.
8. Refuse to sell to commercial wholesalers, retail brokers, or research laboratories.
9. Have tails docked and dew claws removed soon after birth. Prior to the sale of the puppies, initial shots for known infectious diseases should be given and worming administered. A buyer should be supplied with a four- (4) generation pedigree, registration certificate, information on all veterinary care, and instructions for the care, feeding, and training of the Brittany.
10. Remember your responsibility, as a breeder does not end with the sale of the puppy. A breeder should have contact with the buyer of a pup throughout the life of the dog. This information will enhance breeding knowledge and improve the foundation for a good long-term breeding program. This will also help your regional club to grow with new members and possible participants and workers.
11. Use spay/neuter agreements and/or consider limited registration if it is known or believed to manifest hereditary defects detrimental to the breed. THE LONG TERM INTEREST OF THE BRITTANY SHOULD BE THE GOAL OF EVERY BREEDER.
12. Consider DNA finger printing for all dogs in your breeding programs.