The best way to ensure a long and happy relationship with a purebred dog is to purchase from a responsible breeder. While the AKC does not endorse or recommend specific breeders, we do offer several resources to locate breeders. The AKC recommends puppy buyers begin the search process by contacting the AKC Parent Club.

A Parent Club is a national organization that represents a breed recognized by the American Kennel Club. The Parent Club owns and maintains the written standard for its breed and implements programs for the betterment of that breed. Parent Clubs represent a wealth of breed knowledge and are an invaluable resource for prospective puppy buyers.

You may also search for a local club to reach volunteers from all-breed or specialty clubs.

These contacts can assist you with information about purebred rescue.

Another option, after trying the AKC Parent Club Breeder Referral, is to search for a local breeder with AKC-registrable puppies available now through our new service, Online Breeder Classifieds.