AKC Rule Enforcement – One Size Does NOT Fit All Infractions

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234 – October, 2026

By Lisa Dubé Forman

In the wake of tragic and preventable canine deaths at recent shows, the AKC’s response has thrust the sport’s disciplinary system into the spotlight and exposed its most urgent flaw.

If a dog is killed because of negligence, an animal or a person is seriously injured, or any physical assault takes place, the present system could allow the accused to take part in the next day’s show. The time has come for the system to be reformed. I agree with the publisher of this magazine: any exhibitors or handlers who are facing such serious accusations should be immediately suspended from all their AKC privileges while a thorough investigation is underway. This is not about assuming guilt; it is about preserving the integrity of our sport and the safety of its participants. Just as professional sports organizations remove players from competition during investigations, the AKC should act quickly and decisively.

Moreover, Event Committees should not be forced to shoulder the burden of handling tragedies like these. No, not in cases involving grave harm. Those must go directly to the AKC Executive Secretary and Compliance Department, with immediate action taken to safeguard our community while the truth comes to light.

Let’s get everyone up to speed. From July 29, 2026 onward, the guidelines for dealing with misconduct at American Kennel Club events will require a Host Club’s Event Committee to hold an Event Hearing whenever a dog is seriously injured or dies as a result of an AKC event–not only in cases involving a vehicle.

I’ve reviewed numerous opinions and the lengthy social media discussions about the updated policy and seen many passionate arguments, along with repeated requests for clarity. Much of the talk focuses on how the new policy will be enforced. The answer is almost disarmingly simple: the AKC currently has no practical way to enforce this policy on its own. The twist? They don’t need to.

Click here to read the complete article
234 – October, 2026

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Posted by AnthonyA on Oct 22 2026. Filed under Current Articles, Featured. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.