The Newfoundland Club of America introduces its tiered breeder recognition program to support breeder education, responsible practices, mentorship, and service to the Newfoundland community.
Why Become an NCA Breeder?
• Access education and coaching resources designed specifically for breeders
• Help preserve and protect the Newfoundland breed
• Promote responsible, health-focused breeding practices
• Increase breeder visibility and educational opportunities for new owners
• Contribute to the Newfoundland community
• Connect with breeders and ambassadors to help identify potential Newfoundland homes
• Access breeder resources and continuing education
• Receive mentorship, support, and shared best practices
• Build breeding connections, including access to stud dogs and puppy prospects
Breeder levels recognize experience, knowledge, ability, mentorship, commitment to the breed, and service to others through the NCA.
NCA Breeder • NCA Breeder of Distinction • Legacy Breeder
Apply to become an NCA Breeder today!
NCA Breeder Program Qualifications:
The NCA recommends that every Breeder be a member of an NCA regional club. (If the member does not live in the United States, he or she should be a member of their national or regional club in the country in which they live.)
NCA Breeder
• Must be a current member and have been a member in good standing of the Newfoundland Club of America and the AKC for five (5) consecutive years.
• Must have no grievances that the Arbitration Committee has found to have a basis in fact and that were unresolved at the closing date for the list. (NCA members and non-members may file grievances.)
• Must always use a written contract or agreement in all Newfoundland transactions.
• Must have bred two (2) Newfoundland litters while a member of the NCA.
• Must have bred an AKC or CKC Champion from two (2) litters. (A copy of the Certificate of Title must be attached)
• Must be committed to following the recommended NCA Health Testing Guidelines.
• The NCA expects its members to make a life-long commitment to every Newfoundland they produce and to cooperate in the rescue of any Newfoundland dogs they produce.
NCA Breeder of Distinction
• Current member and have been a member in good standing of the Newfoundland Club of America, Inc. for five (5) consecutive years.
• Have exhibited and participated in NCA/AKC events with Newfoundlands for a minimum of ten (10) years.
• Be willing to serve as an educational resource for prospective Newfoundland breeders and owners.
• Be willing to help less experienced breeders with professional breeding questions and concerns.
• Have knowledge of NCA resources and be willing to direct people to them.
• Must always use a written contract/agreement in all Newfoundland transactions.
• Must have one sponsor, who is a current Breeder of Distinction.
• Attended a National or Regional Specialty within the past three (3) years, based on the application submission date.
• Able to discuss obedience and working events in relation to the importance and understanding of Newfoundland temperament and structure.
• Must have bred a minimum of five (5) litters of AKC or CKC registered Newfoundlands as an NCA Member. The breeder must have been whelped and cared for by the applicant, through placement age in the applicant's home/premises.
• Must have bred a minimum of five (5) AKC or CKC Champion Newfoundlands. (A copy of the Certificate of Title must be attached if not previously submitted.)
• Must have bred three (3) Newfoundlands with an NCA working, AKC Companion, or Performance title. (A copy of the Certificate of Title must be attached if not previously submitted.)
• Continued commitment to following the recommended NCA Health Testing Guidelines.
NCA Legacy Breeder
Candidates are nominated by the Breeders Education Committee and/or the Historical Archives Committees for Board Approval.
A Legacy Breeder embodies a lifetime of devotion to the Newfoundland breed. Over decades, their care, knowledge, and vision are reflected in generations of sound, accomplished dogs, in breeding programs strengthened by their lines, and in the people they have encouraged and mentored along the way. Their service to the NCA and the wider Newfoundland community helps preserve the best of the breed while guiding its future. This is not simply a level one applies for; it is an honor a breeder grows into through enduring influence, generous stewardship, and a heartfelt commitment that leaves a legacy for generations to come.
Apply to become an NCA Breeder