Why the AKC? If you have been searching for a Scottish Terrier you may have come across some interesting registrations, other than AKC. What does this mean? Frankly, it means that they are not AKC registered. There could be several reasons these breeders do not meet the requirements or do not wish to meet the requirements mandated by the AKC. A few of which are as follows...

1.) Do not wish to conform to the AKC standard for the Scottish Terrier.  Scottish Terrier Breed Standard 

2.) Do not wish to conform to the AKC rules and regulations. Most of which are in place to protect you and your new puppy for life.

3.) Would rather avoid paying the registration fees required. Most backyard breeders, pet stores, and puppy mills are interested only in profit. Why register a puppy and pay for papers if no one asks about it?

4.) In the business of selling "designer" dogs for large amounts of money. This competes with the good ethics set forth by the AKC and any breeder interested in the health and well being of our beloved Scotties. These mixes are the ultimate breeder scam! These "designer" dogs are not eligible for AKC registration for obvious reasons, and the people that sell them are having a hey day because buyers don't know what all the "fuss" is about. "New designer dog available... no fuss, no problem. No papers required! Just pay me $3,000 and enjoy your new designer dog."

5.) Does not want dogs registered with the AKC, so they are no longer under AKC supervision. The AKC has it's very own investigation department that conducts planned and surprise visits on breeders in question as well as breeders at random. No AKC puppies + no supervision + no restriction = $$

The exception to this are some international registries, you can view a list of international registries accepted by the AKC, by visiting their web site (AKC Site)  The American Kennel Club is the oldest and most prestigious breed registry in the US. The AKC actually sets the the breed standard for over 150 breeds it recognizes. The AKC has strict guidelines to ensure the quality of these recognized breeds. There are many rules and regulations which breeders are required to follow. Every AKC registered dog has a pedigree which can be traced back. Some other pet registries have what is called voluntary compliance, they do not require DNA certification, or proof of the dogs ancestry, dogs of unknown pedigree are often registered without investigation.

It is our opinion that while, there may be well intended breeders out there selling puppies with these registrations, sadly for them, the lack of accountability by these pet registries certainly opens the door for abuses. To be fair, abuses can happen no matter what registry. So choose wisely and be informed.

Attention: Many die before making it to a pet shop. Pray for them and their Mothers. Do not support puppy mills. A pet store that sells puppies is a puppy mills biggest supporter, they would not be able to pocket the incredible mark up if they purchased AKC registered puppies from reputable breeders.

DO I GO HOME TODAY? A poem by Sandi Thompson