Skip to content
View menu
AKC Canine College
Log in
Breeder Courses

Dog Breeding Fundamentals


Course
Purchase for $59

Want to know a little more about the course? Breeding is exciting and challenging. Part art, part science, and total devotion, AKC is here to support you on this amazing journey with courses covering a variety of topics such as canine anatomy, selection, kennel blindness, and genetics, based on the popular book The ABCs of Dog Breeding—What Every Breeder Should Know by Claudia Waller Orlandi, Ph.D.

The Dog Breeding Fundamentals program takes a practical, step-by-step, self-paced approach for dog breeders in a comprehensive program with the "need to know" information. Our newest courses include Maternity, Nursery, and soon-to-be-released Adult Care. After completing each module, you will receive a virtual badge, points toward the course leaderboard, and valuable treats for future AKC Canine College products. 

In our dedicated discussion forums, you can connect with other breeders, ask and answer questions on specific topics, share your experiences, and learn from others. A series of Breeder Advice and Legacy Breeder videos will help encourage and enlighten you on achieving great success within your breeding program. 

Breeders will also have the option to complete an online exam to earn CEUs towards their Bred with H.E.A.R.T. or Breeder of Merit credentials. Upon completion of the exam, you will also earn a virtual badge and a frameable certificate. 

 

Here is the course outline:

1. Before You Begin

Welcome to the course!

2. Canine Anatomy

A three-part series examining structure & balance, the dog's body , and dog movement.

3. Canine Genetics

A primer on genetic concepts, linkage, and polygenic traits.

4. Breeding Systems

An overview of different breeding systems.

5. Selection

Information on breeding values, stock selection and how to start a breeding program.

6. Pedigrees

Understand the information contained in a pedigree and how to use it.

7. Genetic Defects and Health

Learn about different modes of inheritance and the effects of inbreeding.

8. Kennel Blindness

Know how to identify kennel blindness and some tips for honestly assessing dogs.

9. Maternity

Dedicated to the maternity area, discover more about the pregnant bitch, whelping conditions, and newborn care at birth.

10. Nursery

Learn more about behavioral development, socialization, weaning, infectious diseases, vaccination, and parasites.

11. Adult

Learn more about genetics and breeding; reproductive anatomy; mating options; pregnancy diagnosis and care; nutrition and feeding guidelines; general health care; and animal welfare.

12. Isolation & Quarantine

Learn about the differences between isolating and quarantining a dog in a kennel.

13. Building a Kennel Run

Learn about the considerations for building and maintaining a safe exercise run for a kennel.

14. AKC Breeder Advice Videos

Looking for advice from top breeders and experts? Watch these videos! These videos encapsulate a range of viewpoints to not only deepen our understanding but also encourage a more comprehensive exploration of ideas.

15. AKC Legacy Breeders Videos

16. AKC Breeder to Breeder Symposium

Previously recorded presentations from expert breeders and judges.

17. AKC Breeder Toolkit Resources

Webinar recordings and helpful links.

18. AKC Government Relations Resources

Webinar recordings and helpful links.

19. Additional Resources

Links to additional resources, including articles, a glossary of terms, and a bibliography of suggested readings.

Completion

The following certificates are awarded when the course is completed:

Dog Breeding Fundamentals Program
Back to top