Dog breed governing bodies are needed to ensure the health and well-being of dogs within specific breeds. These organizations establish breed standards, which are guidelines for the physical and behavioral characteristics that are considered ideal for a particular breed. They also promote responsible breeding practices and work to prevent genetic disorders and other health issues that can occur within certain breeds. Additionally, these bodies often provide educational resources for breeders, owners, and potential owners, as well as organize events such as dog shows and competitions. Overall, the purpose of dog breed governing bodies is to preserve and improve the breed, as well as promote the responsible ownership of dogs. You can find a searchable, a-z list of over 120 breed specific clubs here.
List of Kennel Clubs
Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)
Formed in 1911, the FCI is the largest and most widely recognized governing body for purebred dogs in the world. It is responsible for registering, classifying and breeding of pedigreed dogs from 88 countries and territories, and it recognizes around 340 different breeds of dogs.
American Kennel Club (AKC)
Formed in 1884, the AKC is a well-known organization that recognizes and governs purebred dogs in the United States. It is the oldest and largest purebred dog registry in the country and it recognizes over 200 breeds of dogs.
The Kennel Club (UK)
Formed in 1873, The Kennel Club is the oldest and most well-known organization that governs and recognizes purebred dogs in the United Kingdom. It recognizes over 300 breeds of dogs.
United Kennel Club (UKC)
Formed in 1898, the UKC is another governing body for purebred dogs in the United States. It recognizes over 300 breeds of dogs.
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC)
Formed in 1888, the CKC is the national kennel club of Canada and it is responsible for the registration, breeding and showing of purebred dogs. It recognizes over 190 breeds of dogs.
Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC)
Formed in 1958, the ANKC is the top governing body for purebred dogs in Australia. It recognizes over 200 breeds of dogs. Also known as “Dogs Australia.”
New Zealand Kennel Club (NZKC)
Formed in 1886, the NZKC is the national kennel club of New Zealand and it is responsible for the registration, breeding and showing of purebred dogs. It recognizes over 200 breeds of dogs. The name was changed to Dogs New Zealand (Dogs NZ) in 2017.
Société Centrale Canine (SCC)
Formed in 1881, the SCC is the national kennel club of France and it is responsible for the registration, breeding and showing of purebred dogs. It recognizes over 300 breeds of dogs.
Verband für das Deutsche Hundewesen (VDH)
Formed in 1933, the VDH is the national kennel club of Germany and it is responsible for the registration, breeding and showing of purebred dogs.
Japanese Kennel Club (JKC)
Formed in 1949, the Japanese Kennel Club is the national kennel club of Japan and it is responsible for the registration, breeding and showing of purebred dogs.
What benefits do members receive from joining a purebred dog club?
Members of purebred dog clubs receive a variety of benefits, including access to resources and information about breed standards, health research, and training. They can also participate in dog shows, competitions, and events organized by the club, as well as network with other dog enthusiasts and breeders.
Largest Purebred Dog Clubs – Final Thoughts
The 10 largest purebred dog clubs in the world play a crucial role in promoting responsible dog ownership and ensuring the health and well-being of dogs of any breed. These breed clubs not only provide a platform for dog owners and breeders to showcase their dogs in conformation events but also organize various performance events that test the skills and abilities of different breeds. Moreover, these clubs prioritize the importance of dog health by advocating for health testing and responsible breeding practices. By upholding high standards of pedigree and promoting education on responsible dog ownership, these parent clubs serve as valuable resources for dog enthusiasts around the globe.
