MASCUSA STUD BOOK RESEARCH COMMITTEE ​mission Statement

To research considerations to be taken into account when requesting to continue to keep the studbook open for the AKC Miniature American Shepherd, including but not limited to; Gene Pool Diversity, Registration and Breed Health to benefit the overall development and health of our breed world-wide.
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Are we breeding for a future?
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MASCUSA Stud book research COMMITTEE recommendation

Following extensive research and consultations with experts across multiple disciplines pertaining to the genetics and continued health of the Miniature American Shepherd breed, the MASCUSA Stud Book Research Committee firmly advises that it is crucial to maintain open stud books at this time. 
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Current status

At the present time, plans are in motion to officially close the studbook for the Miniature American Shepherd with the AKC. Effective January 1, 2025, open registrations will no longer be accepted. Furthermore, it's important to note that any litters registered with SDRS after June 30, 2024, will not be eligible for acceptance.

What does this mean?

If the studbook were to close with AKC, the future of our breed would be solely dependent on those pedigrees, lines, and dogs that have already been registered with AKC prior to this point. No dogs outside of AKC (such as ASDR and MASCA registered dogs) would be allowed to be registered as AKC Miniature American Shepherds going forward.

are there benefits to keeping the studbooks open?


​Yes!
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Maintaining an open studbook offers a multitude of advantages. Here are several key opportunities it provides:

  1. Enhance Genetic Diversity and COI: Keeping the studbook open facilitates the increase of genetic diversity and lowers the Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI), reducing the risk of inherited health issues.
  2. Welcoming Outside Breeders: It allows for breeders to continue their journey toward AKC registration, promoting a broader community of breed enthusiasts and experts.
  3. Mitigating Health Concerns: An open studbook provides the chance to selectively breed away from detrimental health concerns and inherited diseases including Neuroaxonal Dystrophy, improving the overall health and well-being of the breed.
  4. Refining Structure and Movement: The open studbook enables breeders to work on refining the physical structure and movement characteristics of Miniature American Shepherds.
  5. Enhancing Breed Type: It permits the refinement and preservation of the breed's distinctive characteristics and standards, ensuring it remains true to its lineage.
  6. Improving Temperament: Breeders can focus on cultivating desirable temperaments, fostering Miniature American Shepherds that are not only physically sound but also possess excellent behavior traits.
  7. Incorporating Smaller Size: The opportunity to incorporate smaller sizes within the breed can be explored.
  8. Incorporating New Working and Performance Lines: An open studbook allows for the infusion of new working and performance lines, ensuring the breed remains versatile and adaptable.

By keeping the studbook open, Miniature American Shepherds can continue to evolve, adapt, and thrive in a way that benefits both the breed and its enthusiasts.

Questions or Concerns

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