Mary Allen
Introduction: What is the Braque Français?
The Braque Français, also known as the French Pointer, is a versatile hunting dog breed that originated in France. This breed is known for its athleticism, intelligence, and loyalty. They are excellent hunters, with a keen sense of smell, and are often used for hunting birds and small game. They also make wonderful family pets, as they are affectionate and eager to please.
There are two types of Braque Français: the Gascogne and the Pyrenees. The Gascogne is a larger, heavier dog with a longer coat, while the Pyrenees is shorter and lighter with a smoother coat. Both types are recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) but only one is recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
The AKC: An Overview
The American Kennel Club (AKC) is the largest purebred dog registry in the world. Founded in 1884, the AKC is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the welfare of purebred dogs and responsible breeding practices. The AKC is responsible for maintaining the breed standards for over 190 breeds of dogs, including the Braque Français.
The Braque Français and the AKC
The Braque Français is not currently recognized by the AKC. This means that they are not eligible to compete in AKC-sanctioned events, such as conformation shows or field trials. However, this does not mean that the breed is not recognized by other organizations or that they are not a legitimate breed.
The AKC’s Recognition Process
The AKC has a strict process for recognizing new breeds. In order to be eligible for AKC recognition, a breed must have a sufficient number of dogs in the United States, a national breed club, and a breed standard that is distinct from other breeds. The AKC also requires that the breed be recognized by the FCI, which the Braque Français is.
The History of the Braque Français
The Braque Français has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages. They were originally bred for hunting and were popular with French nobility. Over time, the breed was developed into two distinct types: the Gascogne and the Pyrenees. Today, both types are still used for hunting and make excellent family pets.
The Braque Français in the US
While the Braque Français is not currently recognized by the AKC, there are still many breeders and enthusiasts of the breed in the United States. The Braque Français Club of America (BFCA) is the national breed club for the breed and works to promote and preserve the breed in the US.
The AKC’s Criteria for Recognition
The AKC has strict criteria for recognizing new breeds. In addition to having a sufficient number of dogs in the US, a national breed club, and a distinct breed standard, the AKC also requires that the breed be recognized by the FCI or another major international kennel club. The AKC also evaluates the breed’s temperament, health, and genetic diversity before granting recognition.
The Braque Français’ Eligibility
While the Braque Français is recognized by the FCI, they do not currently meet the AKC’s eligibility requirements for recognition. However, this does not mean that the breed will never be recognized by the AKC. The BFCA is actively working to increase the breed’s popularity and improve their chances of AKC recognition in the future.
The AKC and Foreign Breeds
The AKC has a long history of recognizing foreign breeds. In fact, many popular breeds in the US, such as the German Shepherd and the Labrador Retriever, were originally developed in other countries. The AKC is committed to promoting and preserving purebred dogs, regardless of their country of origin.
The Future of the Braque Français
While the Braque Français is not currently recognized by the AKC, their future in the US looks bright. The breed has a dedicated following and is gaining popularity among hunters and dog enthusiasts. The BFCA is working hard to promote the breed and improve their chances of AKC recognition in the future.
Conclusion: The AKC and the Braque Français
While the Braque Français is not currently recognized by the AKC, they are still a legitimate breed with a long history and a dedicated following. The AKC has strict criteria for recognizing new breeds, but the Braque Français has the potential to meet those criteria in the future. In the meantime, the BFCA is working hard to promote and preserve the breed in the US.
Further Resources: Where to Learn More
For more information about the Braque Français and the AKC’s recognition process, visit the following websites:
- Braque Français Club of America: https://www.braquefrancaisusa.org/
- American Kennel Club: https://www.akc.org/
- Fédération Cynologique Internationale: https://www.fci.be/