American Rare Breed Association (ARBA)
The American Rare Breed Association (ARBA) is a kennel club that caters to owners and fanciers of dog breeds and types not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). Let’s explore the key aspects of this organization:
Origins and Purpose:
Founded in 1991, by Dr. John Louis Slack, Anita Bryant, and Betty Augustowski. Many, many others throughout the life of the Association played very important roles that made the American rare Breed Association what it is today. The American Rare Breed Association became known affectionately throughout the world as "ARBA".
Originally, it focused on breeds not yet recognized by the AKC, allowing them to participate in conformation shows.
Over time, the ARBA expanded its scope to include FCI-recognized breeds, UKC, and rare breeds awaiting recognition.
Dog Shows and Events:
The ARBA hosts Rare Breed Conformation Dog Shows where dogs from various backgrounds compete.
These shows celebrate the diversity of breeds and provide a unique opportunity for rare and lesser-known breeds to shine.
Judges evaluate each dog based on breed standards, temperament, and conformation.
Titles and Recognition:
The ARBA offers European-style championships and titles.
Dogs can earn international titles based on points earned in these shows.
The organization also provides intercontinental titles, which recognize a dog’s adherence to the breed standard across different continents.
Legacy and Influence:
The founders' vision for the ARBA was to create a platform for breeders, handlers, and enthusiasts and a place where the public could view and learn about dogs that may be uncommon. ARBA is also a breed registry for these breeds.
The ARBA’s commitment to international standards and inclusivity has made it a respected player in the dog show world.
Continued Growth and Adaptation:
The ARBA evolves to meet the needs of exhibitors and rare breed enthusiasts. It remains dedicated to promoting responsible breeding practices and celebrating the uniqueness of each breed.
In summary, the American Rare Breed Association bridges borders, celebrates diversity, and honors the passion of dog lovers who champion rare and extraordinary breeds.
Note: The ARBA’s commitment to ethical promotion and personalized service sets it apart in the world of rare breed dogs. 🐾
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I’ve never been to a ARBA show. I have been to the IABC show. Actually, I prefer them over UKC or AKC. The dog is not competing with another dog to earn a title. If your dog meets the standard for the breed it can earn a title. You can earn National and International titles. Also get an evaluation of your kennel with best family dog. That looks at several generations of dogs in your kennel. They use AKC and other organizations judges. Handlers can learn how to show a dog in these events. You get a written critique of your dog from each judge.
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When we lived in Virginia and started showing it was mainly with ARBA and Rarities Inc. (now International Canine Kennel Club). We also showed with IABCA when the shows were in North Carolina. I am a big fan of ARBA as it was ran by Robert and Clarice - Great people who genuinely loved the dogs and the ability to bring rare breed fanciers together.
John and Rita from ICKC are also very nice people and as passionate as Robert at ARBA. I have checked their site to see what's happening but it appears that there are not many shows scheduled. That is too bad.
One of the issues I had with all the organizations is their use of AKC judges. Believe it or not - those judges don't know your breed as good as you do unless they have owned, bred and trained the same. It is like saying if you own American Bulldogs you know all there is to know a bout the
#Presa Canario or Cane#Corso or an extreme example - you are a GSD judge and thus qualified to judge#Caucasian and Central Asian#Ovcharka .. .. crazy.
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I recall once I was at a vet. There was an event that I got my dogs hips exrayed for a low price. I think they microchiped them too. This woman said I had some great dogs. Then she said I know. I judge them. Those are very nice Cane Corso. I said these are Presa Canario. Then she looked over my dogs oh yeah. They are Presas. I thought to myself. She judges them. She doesn't recognize the breed that she supposedly judges. Before she she mislabeled the breed. I told her that they were champions, best of breed.
