Q.

Do I need to be a member of the ACT Canine Association/Dogs A.C.T to own a pure bred dog?
 

A.

No - Many members of Dogs A.C.T own a crossbreed dog and compete in sanctioned events such as Agility & Obedience Trials.

Q.

Does my dog have to be a pure breed/pedigree to be registered with Dogs A.C.T?
 

A.

No - A dog, whether purebred or not; or which is ineligible for pedigreed registration, may be registered in the Associate Dog Register or the Sporting Dog Register. Associate Dogs must be desexed.

Q.

Does my dog have to be registered with Dogs A.C.T to go to obedience training schools.
 

A.

There are many advantages for you, your family and of course your dog with obedience training and socialisation. Dogs A.C.T encourages all dog owners to participate in puppy education in our endeavour to promote and encourage responsible dog ownership.

 But if you wish to compete in any Dogs ACT sanctioned event, whether showing, obedience or agility trials, herding (ANKC), endurance or gundog trials, you will need to be a member and your dog will need to be registered with Dogs A.C.T.

Q.

Why should I buy a pure bred/pedigree dog?
 

A.

The various types of pure-bred dogs are the result of many years of selective breeding where all breeds were developed for a specific purpose and therefore when considering a pure-bred dog, it is possible to choose those attributes which most clearly fit into your personal lifestyle and interests.

The pure-bred dog is infinitely more predictable as to size, characteristics, temperament and coat than its crossbred relatives and documentation is available on their history and their heritage.

Responsible breeders will provide a documented history of the puppy, explain the background on the breed, discuss or demonstrate the characteristics of the adult dog and you should be able to see one or both parents or other family members.

The breeders can share their experiences and knowledge of the breed with you, and will be able to guide you in proper care and feeding, health issues and training; and will continue to provide information and support as your puppy grows.

Q.

What benefits are there for members of Dogs A.C.T.
 

A.

Members are entitled to participate in officially approved events and courses and achieve ANKC titles and awards.
You can hold committee positions with Affiliated Dog Club/s or help run events for these clubs.
You will receive a tri-monthly magazine. - which publishes information about showing, trialling and breeding dogs.
You can become a registered breeder,  the application for a breeder's prefix includes an open book exam.
As a member, your dog, whether purebred or not, once registered with Dogs A.C.T entitles you to discounted fees with the ACT Government when you register your dog with the Dog Control.

The following information is important to you, and should help you understand the principles and objectives of the ACT Canine. Please follow the links.

Dog Ownership and the ACT Canine Association (Dogs ACT.
The Aims and Objectives of the ACT Canine Association (Dogs ACT).
The Code of Ethics for the ACT Canine Association.
The Constitution of the ACT Canine Association.
The Rules and Regulations of the ACT Canine Association.
The Rules and Regulations of the Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC).
ACT State Dogs Laws
(Information on animal welfare, dog and cat laws, pet ownership and Domestic Animal Services)
ACT Government - Dog Welfare Code of Practice.
Dogs ACT Affiliated Dog Clubs.
Are you thinking about buying a puppy?
Rescue services in the ACT & Australia wide.
Obedience, dog sports and other activities.
Caring for your dog and Responsible breeding.
Recommended Reading
ACT Areas where you can take and/or exercise your dog.
Membership Application.
Contact Dogs ACT.

Please remember -
YOUR DOG ~ YOUR FRIEND ~ YOUR RESPONSIBILITY.