Well, it's about time. AKC (The American Kennel Club) is now allowing mixed breed dogs that have been registered through their Canine Partners Program to compete in obedience, agility, and rally competitions. With mixed breeds being the most common type of dog at animal shetlers, and behavior problems being a significant reason why dogs are given up, anything that can be done to help dog owners prevent and resolve behavior problems, we are all for.
With this opening of competitive obedience, agility, and rally to mxed breeds, people who want to compete can now acquire mixed breed dogs and not be limited to only purebred dogs. The AKC has long granted ILP numbers (Indefinite Listing Privilege) to dogs without AKC registration papers who appear to be pure bred. Suzanne acquired an ILP number on her first Irish setter – Blaze – who she found "blazing" down a street in Ft. Collins years ago. Blaze earned her CD, CDX, and UD and for 12 years was Suzanne's best friend and canine soul mate until her death in 1992.
But now dogs that are clearly mixed breeds can enter AKC approved events. And if owners apply online by April 30th, they'll save $10 off the normal $35 registration fee. Skeptics could argue that this is just another way for AKC to make money, but we prefer to look at the development in a more positive light. For AKC, long THE staunchest supporter of pure breed dogs and breed clubs, to allow mixed breeds to ANY event is a HUGE step for them. We think the benefit to mixed breed dogs and their owners is of far more importance than any monetary gain. Research has shown that dogs that have attended a training class are less likely to be surrendered to shelters.
The AKC says that over 1500 clubs are prepared to allow mixed breed entries in obedience, agility and rally in 2010. Suzanne is an associate member of the Irish Setter Club of Colorado and during their recent meeting they voted to allow mixed breed obedience entries at their next show.
So if you are the proud owner of that All American Dog, and have wanted to explore the world of competitive dog sports, pop on over to the AKC Canine Partner page and sign up!
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