“Blade” – photo credit: Keither G @blade._.of._.steel

(Adopted by the Board of Directors 1980, Revised 1982, 1993, 1998, 2011,2022, 2025)

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

As a member of the Doberman Pinscher Club of America, I affirm that:

1. I will represent myself and my Dobermans honestly in all dealings and agreements.
2. I will conduct myself in a manner that upholds the honor of the Doberman Pinscher breed and the reputation of the DPCA.
3. I will act at all times to preserve, protect, and promote the welfare, improvement, and public image of the Doberman Pinscher.

CODE OF CONDUCT

Compliance and Representation

1. Members shall abide by the Constitution and By-Laws of the Doberman Pinscher Club of America and the rules and regulations of the American Kennel Club.
2. Members shall conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively on the sport of purebred dogs and on the Doberman Pinscher. This includes courteous communication with fellow members, elected officials, committee chairs and other volunteers as well as respect for show sites, national convention and overflow facilities, and all public forums (including internet and social media).
3. Members shall treat all fellow club members and other enthusiasts with respect, courtesy, honesty and fairness. Members shall refrain from personal attacks, inflammatory language, or any form of harassment in public forums, on social media, or in private correspondence concerning DPCA business.
4. All advertising, promotions, and representations about Dobermans shall be honest, accurate, and not misleading.
5. No club information shall be used for personal or commercial gain.
6. Usernames, passwords, and other login credentials issued for access to any DPCA systems, platforms, or member resources are confidential and shall not be shared, distributed, or used by anyone other than the individual member to whom they were assigned.

Care and Recordkeeping

7. Members shall maintain accurate breeding records, registrations, and pedigrees.
8. Members shall provide appropriate standards of canine health, cleanliness, housing, and care, in compliance with all applicable laws and ordinances.
9. Members shall support DPCA efforts to address health issues known to affect the breed.

Breeding Practices

10. All breeding shall be undertaken for 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.
11. Animals shall be bred only when in good health, free of communicable disease, and only as often as consistent with sound medical practice.
12. Albino or Z-factored animals shall never be used for breeding. Members who have a website must include the following verbiage on the site: We do not condone or support the breeding of albino (white) Dobermans as it is a deleterious genetic mutation.
13. 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.
14. 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.

Sales and Placement

15. All services and sales arrangements shall be in writing and signed by all parties. DPCA members must support and conduct only ethical trade practices.
16. 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.
17. When appropriate, dogs shall be sold with limited registration or under written agreement for alteration. AKC Registration papers may be withheld pending proof of alteration.
18. At the time of sale, sellers shall provide complete medical records (including vaccinations and deworming), pedigree, and AKC registration or transfer documents, unless otherwise agreed in writing.

Veterinary Practices

19. 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.