More and more dog-centered organizations are allowing all kinds of dogs to compete in their events. The USDAA, NADAC and CPE are a few of the organizations allowing mixed breed competition as well as purebred dogs.

The AKC is one of the organizations that has been lagging behind all the rest, sticking with their registered purebreds. Not too recently, the only dogs allowed in AKC events were those dogs whose parents were AKC registered purebreds and who were from AKC registered litters.

Not any more! If you adopt a dog from a shelter or rescue that looks very much like a purebred dog, you can now qualify to compete in AKC events. These events include: Agility, Earthdog, Herding, Hunting, Lure Coursing, Obedience, Tracking, Rally, and Junior Showmanship. By filling in an application, sending two photographs of your pooch, and providing veterinary verification of spay/neuter, your rescued dog may be qualified for a Purebred Alternative Listing (PAL) registration.

Just as exciting is that the AKC is now considering allowing mixed breed dogs to compete. This new program would be done under a new club called the “All American Dog Club” and may include a fully featured and interactive website for mixed breed dog owners.

Although mixed breeds will not yet be allowed to gain true AKC titles, nor run against their purebred counterparts, we find this program to be a large step forward. Consider your take on this new implementation and help the process along by filling out the AKC’s Dog Owner’s Survey.