78 Saber Tails Fall 2018

Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen Club of America

Many of the problems identified in this report are not addressed such as: the greying effect, declining club membership, 

declining gene pool size and genetic diversity.  They should be addressed separately. 

RECOMMENDATIONS AND PROPOSALS

Proposal # 1. Out Reach to the Stakeholders - Breed Clubs and Breeders

Finding new ways to attract new exhibits and breeders is a challenge for AKC. Given the significant differences between 

the 60 breeds at the bottom of the stud book and those in the top and middle groups cannot be ignored. Those classi-

fied as LE and those with high use of LR need attention and study. It seems reasonable to assume that, at the very least, 

the stakeholders for these breeds should be made aware of the consequences for doing nothing. Therefore, it is recom-

mended that this data and information coupled with ideas and recommendations be offered to the officers, breeders 

and exhibitors of parent clubs, their regional affiliates and All-Breed clubs. For example, consideration might be given to 

the use of team meetings and webinars with parent clubs. Other efforts might be considered for those who purchase a 

LR pup such as offers of compelling reasons to register their pup.  

Based on conversations with three parent clubs (Samoyed, Giant Schnauzer, German Shepherd Dog clubs) their officers 

are unaware of this data regarding their breed. 

Thus, the first step in such an effort would be to share pertinent information and the consequences for doing nothing. 

Such an effort would be the first step in stabilizing the decline in show entries, breeders, exhibitors and breed size. An 

organized public relations, marketing and education effort is warranted. 

Proposal # 2.   National Sweepstakes  

This proposal is aimed at increasing the number of registered litters, dog registrations and entries using three known 

elements that drive the sport and keep it alive. They are: titles, awards and recognitions. This proposal creates an AKC 

National Sweepstakes and AKC National Maturity program for every breed. 

Currently most novice breeders and exhibitors do not believe they can successfully compete and win against the profes-

sional handlers, experienced breeders and seasoned competitors. When costs and their lack of success are considered, 

many become frustrated and quit. Others just age out. An AKC National Sweepstakes would change this belief because 

it is not based on winning or defeating the professional handler, experienced breeder or seasoned exhibitor. Emphasis 

shifts to breeding and puppy placements at shows.  The key features of the AKC National Sweepstakes are:

1. All breeds are included by definition. 

2. Each year AKC designates several regional All-breed shows spread across the US (east, central, west) 

3. No championship points are awarded for class placements.  

4. Competition involves the 6-9 month and 9-12 month classes at designated all-breed shows. Puppies that place 1st, 

2nd, 3rd, 4th earn Sweepstakes points toward the rank of their sire and dam in their breed. (See Table 7)

5. Puppies entered in the 6-9 mo and 9-12 mo classes at these designated shows would be the eligible competitors.

6. Sweepstakes points cumulate toward the ranking of sires, dams, breeders and owners in each breed. 

7. At the end of each year, AKC ranks and publishes the top 25 sires, dams, breeders and owners in each breed. 

8. The first place class winners from the 6-9 mo and 9-12 mo classes at the designated regional shows would be invited 

to Orlando to compete for the title, “AKC National Sweepstakes Winner” (Breed Name).   

9. Puppies entered in the Sweepstakes would be eligible for the Maturity competition that occurs in the following year. 

The same point totals (Table 7) would be used and final competition would take place in Orlando for the maturity 

dogs.  Maturity winners at Orlando would be called the AKC National Sweepstakes Maturity Winner (Breed Name).  

The top 25 sires and dams with the highest point totals in each breed would be ranked and published by AKC along 

with their breeders and owners.