Breeders Code Of Ethics

Breeders Code of Ethics

 

The American Harlequin Miniature Pinscher Club (AHMPC) maintains certain policies to guide the approved breeders with respect to standards of conduct expected in areas where improper acts and/or behavior could damage the reputation of both the breeder and/or AHMPC itself.

This code of ethics should serve as a cornerstone for a breeder’s accountability and responsibility to the health of the animals in their charge, respect to breeding, the potential new owners of the dogs they produce and the use of the AHMPC (American Harlequin Pinscher Club) name.

 

GENERAL 

  • I will learn, understand and follow the policies and standards set forth by the AHMPC to the best of my ability before I undertake the responsibilities of breeding my Harlequin Miniature Pinscher.

 

RECORDS 

  • I will process all paperwork in a timely manner including registration applications and litter registration applications.
  • I will keep and maintain accurate records of my dogs and the puppies produced.  These records will include, but are not limited to:
  • Pedigrees
  • Breeding and whelp dates
  • All litters produced
  • All dogs/puppies sold with new families contact information
  • I will supply my records or the AHMPC in a respectful and timely manner if requested.

 

BREEDING

  • I believe breeding purebred dogs involves certain responsibilities, and I will not take it lightly.
  • I shall plan each breeding with the paramount intention of improving the breed.
  • I believe that only those dogs known to be genetic tested, free of serious or disqualifying defects should be used in the breeding of the Harlequin Miniature Pinscher.
  • I will not breed dogs with cryptorchidism, redundant vulva, dogs with under or over bites, dogs with vicious or shy temperaments, or dogs with serious defects or disqualifications addressed in the breed standards.
  • I will select the sire and dam with an eye to a reputable pedigree, conformation and temperament with a careful study of the breed standard and the principles of genetics.
  • I will not breed any male or female until they are both physically and mentally mature, and will breed within the bounds of the minimum age of 7 months (males) or 1 year (females) and maximum ages of 8 years (males) or 6 years (females) as permitted in AHMPC registration policies.
  • Before entering into any breeding arrangement with other breeders, I will scrutinize the pedigree, genetics, conformation and temperament potential of arranged dog, keeping in mind the ideal of the breeds standard.  I have an obligation to refuse the breeding if, in my opinion, it is not in the best interest of the breed. I will fully explain, in a professional manner, my reasons to the owner of the arranged dog.
  • I will refrain from using a dog that, although free from serious or disqualifying defects, consistently produces afflicted puppies.
  • I will freely provide the appropriate documentation for those concerned regarding the results of any health testing, or will disclose if any such testing have not been done.
  • I will encourage/require the buyers of pet quality puppies to spay or neuter them at a appropriate age.
  • I am willing to take back or help re-home any dog or puppy I have sold/placed should any occasion arise indicating that this assistance is needed.
  • I will replace puppies or refund money as agreed upon by my contract in a timely manner.
  • I understand that breeding two Merle patterned dogs together is highly unethical and I will refrain from producing double Merle puppies.

 

HEALTH

  • As a breeder, I vow to genetic test, maintain a rich and diverse gene pool, understanding that diversity is important for the long-term health of the breed.
  • I will maintain high standards of health and veterinarian care for my dogs/puppies, and guarantee the health of my puppies at the time of sale.
  • I will provide proper care and humane treatment including adequate and nutritious diet, clean water, adequate exercise, clean comfortable living conditions, regular veterinary care, kind and responsive human companionship and training for appropriate behavior for all of the animals in my care.

 

 SALES

  • I will be discriminating in the sales of my puppies, and concerned 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 transfer all applicable registration papers at the time the purchase agreement is completed and is agreeable to both parties.
  • Upon the sale of a dog/puppy, I will provide the buyer with a properly executed AHMPC Registration Application, diet record, an inoculation and parasite control record and a health guarantee. All agreements with be in writing and clearly understood and signed by both the myself and the buyer.
  • I will freely provide a copy of my written agreements or contract to prospected buyers if requested before committing to purchase a dog/puppy.
  • I will refrain from releasing any puppy until it is at least eight (8) weeks old or as required by my state laws.

 

 ADVERTISING

  • My advertising of dogs/puppies will be factual and honest, both in substance and implication.
  • I will not advertise my dogs/puppies as AHMPC registered if they are not.

 

EDUCATION 

  • I agree that as a AHMPC breeder, I should be an example of leadership and serve as a outreach to encourage proper ethical behavior.
  • As a matter of ethics, I pledge to represent the breed honestly to prospective buyers, and help educate the general public and potential buyers about the Harlequin Miniature Pinscher breed as well as to assist the novice breeder.
  • I will make myself available to the purchaser after the sale has been consummated to help with education counseling, grooming and other care questions as well as solving behavioral problems.
  • I will make available to fellow AHMPC breeders any information I have that might aid in the efforts to improve the breed.

 

IMPLEMENTAION 

  • Breeders are expected to police themselves in a civil and responsible manner. A breeders actions is a significant indication of the individual’s perception and competency.  As such, those actions constitute an important element in the evaluation of the breeders acceptance to remain in good standing with the AHMPC.  Failure to follow this policy will be grounds for appropriate and immediate disciplinary action as seen fit by the AHMPC Board.  Including but not limited to temporary or permanent suspension of registration privileges.