Why we work with Dogs Australia Registered Breeders

It’s not just about finding a puppy—it’s about finding a breeder who shares your values.

At Perfect Pets, we choose to work exclusively with Dogs Australia breeders (formerly known as the ANKC). As the national organisation responsible for maintaining high standards in dog breeding and welfare, Dogs Australia supports a transparent, accountable approach—one that puts the wellbeing of dogs first. Here's why that matters.

01/04/2025 By Perfect Pets

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Why we work with Dogs Australia Registered Breeders image

This article was written in collaboration with Hugh Gent OAM, President of Dogs Australia—whose leadership continues to shape responsible breeding standards and promote the welfare of dogs across Australia.

Why do we only work with Dogs Australia breeders?

Trusted Dog Breeders in Australia: Why Dogs Australia are leading the way

Dogs Australia (formerly known as the Australian National Kennel Council – ANKC) is Australia’s peak canine body, with a long-standing reputation for upholding the highest standards in ethical breeding, education, and canine sports. When Perfect Pets first launched over ten years ago, they were known as the ANKC, and to many, that name still resonates.

But whether you know them as Dogs Australia or the ANKC, their commitment to integrity and animal welfare has never changed.

There are a lot of newer registries nowadays, and there's no doubt that many have have breeders who genuinely care about their dogs. But when it comes to transparency, accountability, and putting the welfare of dogs first, Dogs Australia continues to lead the way.

It’s not about selling puppies

Ethical dog breeding standards that go beyond compliance

Many registries exist primarily to support the commercial sale of puppies. Dogs Australia is different. Their focus is on responsible, ethical breeding, and that commitment is reflected in everything they do.

Membership numbers and breed registration statistics are publicly available
Breeding Codes of Ethics not only meet but exceed government requirements
Their rules and regulations are accessible online for anyone to review

Health screening requirements for dogs and puppies

For many breeds, Dogs Australia has introduced Litter Registration Limitations—meaning that a puppy’s parents must be tested for hereditary diseases before that litter can be registered. This includes:

Hip and elbow dysplasia
Specific eye conditions
Genetic issues related to coat colour (e.g. merle-to-merle breeding is not permitted in breeds such as Border Collies and Shetland Sheepdogs)

These policies protect the health of puppies and support ethical, evidence-based breeding practices.

Local presence, National support

National dog breeder registrations with local support

Dogs Australia operates through state and territory Member Bodies, which means that no matter where you are in Australia, there's local support. These include:

Dogs ACT
Dogs NSW
Dogs Victoria
Dogs Queensland
Dogs West
Dogs Tasmania
Dogs SA
Dogs NT

Each body has its own administration office, where breeders and members can get help in person. Their Boards of Directors and Management Committees are publicly listed, maintaining the transparency that pet lovers and breeders deserve.

More than just Dog Shows

Dog sports, training & enrichment with Dogs Australia

While some may associate Dogs Australia with conformation shows alone, their scope is much broader. Members have access to 18 different dog sports, including: