Breeding to the WCA Code of Ethics

Each member of the Weimaraner Club of America (WCA) is asked to adhere to a Code of Ethics. The purpose is to encourage folks to do the right thing when it comes to breeding and owning Weimaraners.

The below is a guideline, and recommended adherence can only be “strongly recommended.” If you come across a breeder who doesn’t adhere to one or more of the below statements, simply ask them about it. If their reasoning doesn’t seem logical to you, please trust your gut and move onto the next breeder.

As a member in good standing of the WCA, Barrett Weimaraners has made a commitment to adhere to the Code of Ethics. Further, we ask that Barrett Weimaraner puppy owners should apply for membership to the WCA and make the same commitment. Why? Because I feel it’s the right thing to do.

Please holler with any questions.

– Kim

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Weimaraner Club of America Code of Ethics

Submitted by the WCA Board of Directors to the membership.

This code is established in accordance with the Constitution, By-Laws and objectives of the Weimaraner Club of America and is set forth as a guideline to protect and advance the interests of the Weimaraner by maintaining high breeding standards and sportsmanlike conduct in all venues. The COE is more than a set of rules; it is a commitment by each member to an ethical practice in owning and breeding Weimaraners. Violations of the COE may constitute conduct prejudicial to the breed or club and may result in disciplinary action.

SPORTSMANSHIP

As a Member of the WCA, I: 

• Acknowledge that I am representative of the WCA and my actions are a reflection of the WCA.
• Will demonstrate in my actions concern for the best interests of the breed.
• When possible, will participate in WCA by volunteering to work on committeees and activities.
• Will encourage eligible individuals to become a member of the WCA.
• Will maintain the best possible standard of care for my dogs.
• Will always conduct myself in a matter which will reflect credit upon me, my Weimaraner(s) and the Sport of purebred dogs, regardless of the location or circumstance.

As an Exhibitor, I: 

• Am committed to being a positive mentor to inexperienced individuals interested in the breed.
• Will display good sportsmanship, win generously and lose graciously.
• Will demonstrate respect for judges, show, trial and test officials and other competitors.

HEALTH

WCA members shall maintain the best possible standards of physical, mental and emotional health of the dogs in their care. This includes a safe, appropriate and clean living environment. Safe, appropriate and adequate physical exercise. The best possible standards of veterinary care and nutrition. Safe, appropriate and adequate exposure and socialization to people, animals and various environments and situations. Special attention should be given to the mental, emotional and intellectual needs of the Weimaraner, so as to aid in the soundness of temperament.

REGISTRATION

WCA members shall breed only AKC registered or AKC recognized foreign registered Weimaraners with other AKC or AKC recognized foreign registered Weimaraners, and keep accurate records of matings and pedigrees. Use an AKC Limited Registration on all puppies of questionable quality of structure or health, or which should not otherwise be used for breeding.

SALES

WCA members shall:

1. Not breed, sell or consign puppies or adults to pet shops or other commercial dealers.
2. Screen all prospective new owners to assure that puppies will have an appropriate, safe and loving home.
3. Urge the new puppy owners to spay or neuter all pets which for any reason will not be used for breeding. Breeders should also provide information on the potential negative impacts of premature sterilization on the late maturing Weimaraner, especially those destined for competitive careers.
4. Use a written contract to clearly explain all expectations for both the breeder and the new owner.
5. Honestly evaluate the quality of the Weimaraner sold/placed and fairly represent that evaluation. Not release puppies before they are 8 weeks of age. Provide details on feeding, general care, exercise and mental stimulation needs. Provide a copy of Pedigrees and the WCA Vaccination Protocol/Recommendations.
6. Readily take back or re-home puppies that do not work out for any reason at any age. Make every effort in finding a new forever home, even with dogs placed in Rescue programs.
7. Follow up on puppies after placement to ensure their continuing care and to encourge the owners to become involved in Weimaraner activities in show, obedience, agility, field, tracking, and other events.

BREEDING

The WCA member will:

1. Breed only with the intention of improving the breed in structure, health, temperament and working ability. Breed only with the intention of preserving this as a versatile breed for the future generations.
2. Choose only healthy parents of good temperament and qualities in relation to the Weimaraner’s AKC approved standard. Breed only dogs that have undergone all appropriate health testing, are of the minimum age of 2 years and will contribute in a positive manner to the preservation of our breed.
3. Avoid repeatedly using dogs which on multiple occasions and with different mates that have produced progeny with life impacting defects or extreme disqualifying faults.
4. Breed only mature bitches with excellent pre-natal and post-natal care for the dam and puppies.
5. Refuse to breed a stud to any female which is markedly inferior physically, mentally or temperamentally. The stud dog owner should be prepared to share the responsibility for placement of the puppies by referring purchasers to the bitch owner and helping with screening homes if necessary.
6. Accept responsibility to take back or handle the proper placement of any dog they have produced.
7. Not deliberately breed with the intention of producing dogs with disqualifying faults as defined in the WCA breed standard as approved by the AKC as the only standard by which the Weimaraner shall be judged.

I acknowledge the responsibilities inherent in my WCA membership and its Code of Ethics.

Approved October 2020

In summary, please do some research on the ethics of your prospective breeder. The success of your relationship with that breeder is VITAL to the success of raising your Weimaraner.

Cheers!

– Kim