Mike Clinton
Introduction to Braque Français
The Braque Français is a versatile hunting dog breed that originated in France. This breed is known for its excellent sense of smell and pointing skills, making it an ideal hunting companion for bird hunters. With their friendly and loyal temperament, they make great family pets as well.
What is AKC?
The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a non-profit organization that registers purebred dogs in the United States. Established in 1884, the AKC is the largest purebred dog registry in the world. The AKC promotes responsible dog ownership, hosts dog shows, and certifies obedience and agility competitions.
AKC-recognized breeds
The AKC recognizes over 190 breeds of dogs that are divided into seven different groups, based on their purpose and traits. These groups include the Sporting Group, Hound Group, Working Group, Terrier Group, Toy Group, Non-Sporting Group, and Herding Group. The AKC sets breed standards for each breed, which outline their physical and behavioral characteristics.
History of Braque Français
The Braque Français has been around since the 15th century, and it is believed to have been developed from a mix of various hunting breeds, including the Spanish pointer and the English setter. Over the years, this breed has been divided into two types – the Braque Français Gascogne and the Braque Français Pyrenees. The breed was recognized by the French Kennel Club in 1955.
Braque Français breed standards
The Braque Français is a medium-sized breed that can weigh between 35 and 55 pounds. They have short, dense coats that come in either white and orange or white and liver. They are known for their athleticism, agility, and endurance. The breed standard for the Braque Français includes specific height, weight, and physical characteristics that must be met to be considered a purebred.
Braque Français recognition in other countries
The Braque Français is recognized by various kennel clubs around the world, including the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI), the United Kennel Club (UKC), and the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC). This breed is also popular in other European countries, such as Germany, Italy, and Spain.
AKC recognition process
To become an AKC-recognized breed, a breed must first be recognized by the AKC Foundation Stock Service (FSS). The FSS is a program that allows breeds that are not yet recognized by the AKC to be recorded in their database. Once a breed has been in the FSS for a certain amount of time and meets certain criteria, it can be considered for AKC recognition.
Why Braque Français is not recognized by AKC
The Braque Français has not yet been recognized by the AKC because it does not meet the AKC’s minimum number of dogs required for registration. The AKC requires a breed to have at least 300 dogs in the FSS program before it can be considered for recognition. This has been a challenge for the Braque Français, as it is a relatively rare breed in the United States.
Efforts to gain AKC recognition
There have been efforts by the Braque Français community in the United States to gain AKC recognition. Breeders have been working to increase the breed’s numbers in the FSS program and to promote the breed to potential owners. The American Braque Français Association has also been actively advocating for AKC recognition.
Conclusion: Future of Braque Français and AKC recognition
The future of the Braque Français in the United States looks promising, as more and more hunters and dog enthusiasts are discovering this breed’s excellent hunting skills and friendly temperament. While AKC recognition may not happen in the near future, efforts are being made to increase the breed’s numbers and promote its recognition. The Braque Français will continue to thrive as a versatile hunting breed and loving family pet.