ERBEKEES is a proud AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. member, participating in the program since 2015.
I have many generations of fully health‑tested Keeshonden behind my breeding program. The AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. program is designed for breeders who may not participate in AKC conformation or agility but who are deeply committed to responsible breeding, health testing, and ongoing education.
⭐ What AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. Means
The AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. program sets breeders apart by recognizing those who:
• Prioritize health testing
• Commit to continuing education
• Follow responsible breeding practices
• Understand genetics and breed improvement
• Maintain high standards of care and compliance
This program gives breeders access to valuable resources, guides, and educational tools that support ethical and informed breeding.
⭐ Why This Matters for ERBEKEES
Because I do not compete in conformation or agility, I cannot earn the title of AKC Breeder of Merit. However, the AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. program recognizes my commitment to:
• Completing all required health tests before breeding
• Maintaining transparent health records
• Producing healthy, well‑bred puppies
• Continuing my education as a breeder
This program provides AKC with a way to acknowledge breeders who meet strict health testing standards and who actively pursue ongoing learning.
⭐ Important Note About Breeders of Merit
Many people assume that Breeders of Merit are held to the highest health‑testing standards—but this is not always the case.
Breeders of Merit often do not fully health test their breeding dogs.
Before purchasing a puppy from any breeder, please learn how to verify health testing.
Visit my Health Testing page for guidance on how to confirm legitimate OFA results.
⭐ AKC Inspections & Compliance
As a Bred with H.E.A.R.T. breeder, I agree to annual AKC inspections by field representatives. These inspections include:
• Home and kennel visits
• Review of dog care and living conditions
• Verification of health testing
• Paperwork and record‑keeping compliance
To date, I have passed all inspections and remain in full compliance with AKC standards.
⭐ Why Choose an AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. Breeder?
The first step in finding your perfect puppy is choosing a breeder you trust.
The second step is ensuring that breeder is an AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. member.
This program is built on five core principles:
H – Health
Breeding dogs must be health tested according to their Parent Club’s recommendations.
E – Education
Breeders commit to ongoing AKC‑approved education to stay current on best practices and advances in canine health.
A – Accountability
Breeders agree to follow AKC Care and Conditions policies and allow AKC inspections.
R – Responsibility
Breeders accept responsibility for the health and well‑being of every puppy they produce.
T – Tradition
Breeders uphold the AKC tradition of producing purebred dogs that are healthy, happy, and well‑bred.