Kennel Union of Ghana is now a partner of FCI – Here are the benefits.

On 26th October, KUG (Kennel Union of Ghana) shared a circular on the subject “
GHANA IS OFFICIALLY AN FCI MEMBER“. The news was received with excitement by members of the union. For the purposes education and understanding of this new height for the union, let’s take a dive into what this means.

Dog breeding in Ghana and the membership of KUG

Generally speaking, the Ghanaian populace appreciates owning a dog. However, most are familiar with mongrels of no specific breed standard. To honestly know the value of a dog, one must consider its purpose and excellence at delivering the same. Kennel Union of Ghana becomes the conduit for that.

While others consider size, others look at beauty, and some are pure violence. But a cursory look at the ability of dogs exposes their intelligent and purposeful nature. Thus, having a dog that was “created,” raised, and trained for the purpose is critical to genuinely assessing its value.

There are several groupings of dogs, typically defined around their purpose and abilities. Even though some dogs have proven to be multi-purpose, the AKC (American Kennel Club) has maintained mainly seven categories. Each breed has unique behavior, requirements, and characteristics. Choosing a dog for your home or needs is a decision that should be based on knowledge.

Who is the KUG?

Each Dog Breed has standards. These standards have been set over a long period. Prioritizing the standards ensures that potential owners know exactly what dog breed they are getting; thus, they see if it can serve the purpose for which they want them.

Across the world, National Kennel Unions form an organized body that seeks to ensure dogs bred to adhere to or are in fit with the standards established by the world’s most prominent breed standard organizations. In Ghana, KUG (Kennel Union of Ghana) is the organization that advocates for such a thing. KUG’s efforts are supported by breed-specific organizations in the country, which makes the duty adopted easier.

It is an organization open to dog owners and breeders who desire dogs that meet world-class standards for their specific breed.

What is FCI?

FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) is the world canine organaisation. It is also sometimes referred to as the International Canine Organisation. As an organization, it prioritizes the promotion of purebred dogs across the world. The FCI is the world’s most prominent international dog organization, with several member countries.

With membership drawn from Europe, the Americas and the Caribbean, and Asia, Africa, and Oceania, the FCI’sFCI’s primary goals include the following;

Standardizing Dog Breeds: The FCI sets and maintains breed standards for various dog breeds worldwide. These standards define the physical and behavioral traits that a breed should ideally exhibit.

Promoting Dog Shows and Competitions: The FCI organizes and recognizes international dog shows, competitions, and events, which allow breeders, trainers, and owners to showcase the qualities of their dogs.

International Recognition: It serves as a central body to recognize and officially categorize breeds and their variations across different countries, ensuring consistency in breeding practices and dog shows worldwide.

Canine Welfare: The FCI promotes the health, welfare, and ethical treatment of dogs in breeding, showing, and beyond. It encourages responsible breeding practices to prevent health problems and ensure the well-being of dogs.

Cooperation with National Kennel Clubs: The FCI collaborates with national kennel clubs and other dog-related organizations to promote purebred dogs and advance canine genetics, training, and health knowledge.

As an organization, it has recognized about 356 dog breeds.

What it means to be FCI certified

The Kennel Union of Ghana being certified by FCI means that KUG has agreed to ensure members adhere to and promote breed standards. Club membership is enjoined and obliged to match FCI standards for all dog breeds. In essence, buying a dog from a KUG member means purchasing a dog that meets the standards of the specific breed worldwide. However, being a member of FCI-certified KUG doesn’t mean one automatically has dogs that meet the standard.

All KUG members must submit to conformation tests and critiques. Upon this, dogs are registered in a database, which thus certifies the dog to have met the breed standards. Only after such does the said dog become a certified purebred dog.

What are the benefits of being a Partner of FCI?

KUG’s new status benefits breeders, kennel clubs, dog owners, and all involved in the dog industry who prioritize purebred breeds. Some of the advantages of being a certified member include the following.

International Recognition and Credibility: Being certified by FCI means a kennel is recognized internationally for adhering to breeding practices and has a reputation for breeding dogs that conform to the standards globally accepted and set by FCI. It is essential for both breeders and prospective buyers who seek pedigree dogs.

Access to FCI’s Breed Standards: Many people rely on word of mouth when assessing dogs. However, being FCI certified means access to globally accepted standards. Access to the breed standards helps breeders align their programs with internationally accepted guidelines. It also means access to expert resources rather than just opinions.

Opportunities to Participate in International Dog Shows: Being FCI certified means a decision to breed and adhere to the standards. Therefore, it means a breeder can participate in FCI-recognised events worldwide. It has become a means to gain recognition as a breeder of high-quality dogs. By participating in such events, dogs can earn titles like International Champions – increasing the prestige and market value of breeding stock or show dogs.

Networking and Collaboration Opportunities: As a member of the FCI, I find global networking with breeders, judges, trainers, and kennel clubs easier. It births collaborations and knowledge sharing and fosters relationships with fellow professionals worldwide. Membership also opens doors to educational opportunities, including seminars, workshops, and conferences on the advancement of dog breeds.

Access to FCI’s Resources and Publications: The FCI has an extensive repository of educational resources like books, articles, etc. Members have access to all these and more to enhance the business.

Legal and Regulatory Support: FCI membership can provide legal backing in breed registration, pedigree disputes, and other dog breeding issues. Being part of a recognized international body can help in disagreements or misunderstandings about breed standards or dog ownership. Also, dogs bred by FCI-certified breeders can receive official pedigrees recognized worldwide, making it easier to trace lineage and verify the authenticity of a dog’s dog’s breed. It helps maintain the integrity of pedigrees and ensures buyers can trust that a dog is purebred.

Increased Marketability and Value: Purebred dogs from FCI-certified breeders tend to have higher market value because they come with documented pedigrees, ensuring that they meet international breed conformance and health standards. It is an attractive feature for buyers who want assurance of the dog’s background. FCI certification can make your dogs more appealing to responsible buyers looking for healthy, well-bred dogs. The FCI stamp of approval is a sign of quality and integrity.

Guidance on Canine Health and Genetics: FCI often collaborates with veterinary and genetic experts to establish health programs that improve various dog breeds’ genetic diversity and overall health. You may have access to these health initiatives and genetic testing programs as a member.

Being part of FCI means you are encouraged to follow modern best practices in genetic testing and health screening for your dogs, helping to prevent hereditary health issues in future generations.

Participation in International Canine Governance: As part of the FCI, members have a voice in shaping global policies related to dog breeding, dog welfare, and canine sports. For kennel clubs and other organizations, this can be an essential opportunity to influence decisions that affect the future of the dog breeding industry.

What is next for KUG?

Kennel Union of Ghana has an upcoming dog show which will showcase some of the finest dogs in Ghana. The event scheduled for the 30th of November 2024 is yet another highly competitive dog show that will exude the highest breed standards.