Code of Ethics

DPCRMA Code of Ethics Policy

Each member of the Doberman Pinscher Club of the Rocky Mountain Area, Inc., will consider the welfare of the breed when engaged in any activities involving the breed, exhibiting, training and selling of Doberman Pinschers, and will refrain from any activities which would be prejudicial to the best interest of the breed and this club.

1.. Abide by the by-laws of the Doberman Pinscher Club of America, The Doberman Pinscher Club of the Rocky Mountain Area and the rules of the American Kennel Club.

2.. Keep accurate breeding records, registration papers and pedigrees. Maintain the best possible standards of canine health, cleanliness and care.

3.. All services and sales arrangements shall be mutually agreed upon, stated in writing and signed by all parties involved, including all adjustments, replacement conditions, etc. Support and conduct only ethical trade practices.

4.. All advertising shall be honest and not in any way misrepresentative, fraudulent or misleading.

5.. Encourage testing for health disorders directly relating to the Doberman Pinscher.

6.. Dogs offered at stud, and bitches accepted for breeding, shall not be bred prior to 24 months of age and shall be in good health and free from communicable diseases and disqualifying faults which may affect the breed. Stud owners/breeders of litters are responsible for puppies produced by their studs/bitches; therefore, it is recommended they verify the bitch owner/purchasers of puppies will be responsible breeders/owners who will

provide proper homes and care.

7.. No bitch shall produce a litter more often than once a year, nor shall she produce a litter after having reached the age of seven years.

8.. Doberman Pinschers will be neither knowingly sold or donated to commercial facilities, research facilities, business kennels, puppy brokers or guard dog businesses. Doberman Pinschers will not be donated as prizes for raffles or contests with the exception of Pilot Dogs and like groups.

9.. Each breeding shall be planned with the intention of improving and preserving the breed.

10.. Honestly evaluate the structural qualities of all Doberman Pinschers sold and fairly represent that evaluation, including results of any temperament testing.

11.. Prices of Doberman Pinschers shall be based on individual quality. Members maintain prices so as not to be injurious to the breed. When appropriate, some animals should be sold on limited registration or with written agreement to have the animal altered and papers withheld pending alteration.

12.. At the time of sale, furnish records to each buyer of all shots and worming, pedigree and AKC registration or transfer documents, unless written agreement is made at time of sale that papers are being withheld.

13.. All members shall conduct themselves at all times in such a manner as to reflect credit on the sport of purebred dogs and Doberman Pinschers in particular. This includes respect for the show site, convention and overflow facilities and all other aspects of responsible dog ownership.

14.. A member may petition the Board of Directors for a variance of this code, stating in writing why a variance of the code should be granted. The petition will be considered by the Board at its next regular meeting.