RECOMMENDED CODE OF CONDUCT FOR MEMBERS

At the request of Members a Code of Conduct has been drawn up by the Committee, on the assumption that owners and breeders of Irish Wolfhounds are responsible and reputable people. This code was officially adopted by the Club at a General Meeting on July 14th 1990 All involved in breeding, owning or exhibiting Wolfhounds should consider themselves the custodians of the breed, and wish to continue improving it.

1 Breed for quality, adhering to the Club Standard, never solely for financial gain.

2 It is strongly recommended that the registration documents of puppies sold as pets are endorsed , 'Progeny not for Registration'. This restriction can be rescinded by the breeder should it be wished at a later stage, but must be explained carefully to the prospective buyer before a sale, and confirmed in writing.

3 When selling overseas, sell only if the buyer is known or recommended by some person who is, and residing preferably in countries having similar standards of animal welfare as the United Kingdom.

4 Never sell to a dealer.

5 Sell only to carefully vetted or recommended homes, giving detailed instructions on general management and most important, a diet sheet which carries further information on feeding beyond puppy stage. Prospective owners should also e made aware of the problems of owning a large hunting hound and given guidance on training and exercise.

6 Encourage buyers to keep in touch throughout the life of the hound, encourage them to become associate members of the club even it not interested in showing also to insure their hounds.

7 Be prepared to take back any hound whose home may no longer be able to cope with it, if necessary to buy it back on a reasonable basis, or contact The Irish Wolfhound Rescue Trust.

8 Never breed or keep more hounds than can be looked after personally, with individual attention either by you or a good kennel assistant. The practice of placing bitches out on breeding terms is strongly discouraged.

9 Breed only from a bitch that has physically matured ie. 2 years old. It is generally agreed that 3 litters in a lifetime is sufficient for any bitch

10 It is strongly recommended that all litters are screened for Porto systemic Shunt, that only stock clear of the condition is sold and that affected hounds are never used tor breeding.

11 It is strongly recommended that all breeding stock be annually heart tested

12 And be prepared to assist the owner of the bitch in finding suitable homes for any puppies sired by your dog.

13 Do not allow puppies to leave their dam too early. eight weeks is soon enough provided they are going to an experienced owner. To a first time Wolfhound owner, ten weeks is a better age.

14 It a the duty of all Irish Wolfhound owners to keep their hounds under control at all times. To keep them, well exercised and in good health, and endeavour to further promote the image of the breed and its equable temperament