People and dogs share a deep and abiding bond. Selective breeding has produced a wonderful diversity of well over one hundred specialized breeds which benefit people in a host of economic and emotional ways. We deepen that bond by competing with our dogs in conformation shows, agility, herding, and obedience.  ASSA supports humane treatment for all dogs, education, voluntary spay/neuter for non-breeding animals, genetic research, and ethical breeding practices, including health screenings, which mean longer, happier, healthier lives for dogs.

ASSA opposes the most radical portions of the agendas of groups such as the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) also known as the Humane Society (HS) and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). The agendas of these organizations are not intended solely to promote the welfare of dogs, but seek to bestow on them rights, which in some cases are equivalent to those of human beings. They want to ban breeding of all domesticated animals, including purebred dogs.

Useful Links:

The National Animal Interest Alliance

The Calvary Group