“Blade” – photo credit: Keither G @blade._.of._.steel
(Adopted by the Board of Directors 1980, Revised 1982, 1993, 1998, 2011,2022)
This Code is established in accordance with the objectives of the Doberman Pinscher Club of America as set forth in Article I, Section 2 of the Club Constitution and is presented as a guideline for the use of DPCA members when buying, breeding, selling and exhibiting Doberman Pinschers. It is intended to set forth minimum standards of practice to which the DPCA would have its members adhere as they strive to accomplish the goals and purposes set forth in the Club Constitution. Violators of the DPCA Code of Ethics may be subject to disciplinary action under DPCA grievance procedures.
ETHICAL STANDARDS
1) I will not misrepresent myself or my Dobermans in my dealings with others.
2) I will honor all agreements entered into freely between myself and others concerning Dobermans and Doberman-related activities.
3) I will not bring dishonor to the Doberman Pinscher Club of America, nor to the breed which I have agreed, by my membership, to preserve and protect.
4) I will conduct myself at all times to enhance and improve the Doberman Pinscher breed and its image to the public.
CODE OF CONDUCT
1. All members shall abide by the constitution and by-laws of the Doberman Pinscher Club of America and all the rules and regulations of the American Kennel Club.
2. All members shall conduct themselves to reflect credit on the sport of purebred dogs in general and Doberman Pinschers in particular. This includes respect for show sites, national convention and overflow facilities, internet forums, lists and other social media as well as all other aspects of responsible dog ownership.
3. All members shall keep accurate breeding records, registrations and pedigrees, and maintain appropriate standards of canine health, cleanliness and care. Members shall abide by local laws, ordinances and covenants relating to dog care and ownership.
4. All services and sales arrangements shall be in writing and signed by all parties. DPCA members must support and conduct only ethical trade practices.
5. All advertising shall be honest and not in any way misrepresentative, fraudulent, or misleading.
6. All members shall support the efforts of the DPCA relative to health issues known to affect the breed.
7. All members shall evaluate the structural and mental qualities of all Doberman Pinschers sold or placed.
8. All breedings shall be done with the intent of the preservation and betterment of the Doberman, taking into consideration structure, health and temperament. Breeding stock shall be tested for health disorders known to affect the breed.
9. Animals will be used for breeding only as often as consistent with good health and sound medical practices. Animals shall be in good health and free of communicable diseases and disqualifying faults. Albino or Z-factored animals shall never be used for breeding.
10. Stud dogs shall not be bred to any bitch whose owner is directly or indirectly involved with any puppy broker, puppy mill, pet shops selling dogs, litter lot sales, or any other wholesale distributor whose business is involved in like activities.
11. No Doberman shall be sold to persons directly or indirectly involved with any puppy broker, puppy mill, pet shops selling dogs, litter lot sales or any other wholesale distributor whose business is involved in like activities. No Doberman shall be supplied for raffles, lotteries, or laboratory experiments.
12. Breeders and stud dog owners are responsible for the puppies produced by their animals. Breeders and stud dog owners shall take responsibility for the dogs they produce by taking dogs back or in some way assisting with placement in another home, if they can no longer be cared for by the owners.
13. When appropriate, animals shall be sold on limited registration or, with written agreement to have the animal altered and AKC registration or transfer documents withheld pending proof of alteration.
14. At the time of sale, the seller shall furnish records to the buyer. Those shall include complete medical records, including vaccinations given and dewormings, pedigree and AKC registration or transfer documents, unless written agreement is made at time of sale or transfer providing that these papers are to be withheld.
15.The Doberman Pinscher Club of America supports the practice of veterinary procedures and surgery when performed in compliance with local, state, and federal laws and regulations.