Asociatia Chinologica Romana (ACHR)

Asociatia Chinologica Romana (A.Ch.R.) is the official national organization representing Romania within the Federation Cynologique Internationale (F.C.I.). Established as a key partner for both public authorities and civil society, the A.Ch.R. is the sole entity empowered by the Romanian Ministry of Agriculture to oversee the selection, breeding, and improvement of purebred and working dogs in the country.

Core Mission and Activities: The association is dedicated to the welfare of dogs, the promotion of responsible breeding, and the prevention of animal cruelty. It serves as a regulatory body that manages canine competitions, maintains the national studbook, and provides essential services such as training for judges, instructors, and administrative staff. Furthermore, the A.Ch.R. acts as a public service provider for the evaluation and registration of potentially dangerous dog breeds under national legislation (O.U.G. 55/2002).

National Breeds: A significant portion of the A.Ch.R.'s mission involves the preservation and international recognition of Romania's unique national dog breeds. The association has successfully secured international recognition for four distinct breeds:

• Ciobanesc Romanesc Mioritic: A natural breed selected from the Carpathian region for its utility.
• Ciobanesc Romanesc Carpatin: A traditional shepherd dog used for centuries to guard flocks.
• Ciobanesc Romanesc de Bucovina: A natural breed originating from the northeastern Carpathian region.
• Ciobanesc Romanesc Corb: A recently internationally recognized breed, known for its black coat and utility in guarding livestock.

Rules and Ethics: The A.Ch.R. maintains strict ethical standards regarding animal welfare. A core regulation enforced by the association is the prohibition of cosmetic surgeries, such as ear and tail cropping, for non-curative purposes. Participation in A.Ch.R. and F.C.I.-sanctioned events is strictly forbidden for dogs that have undergone such procedures for aesthetic reasons. The organization also maintains a Commission for Ethics and Discipline (C.E.D.), which oversees compliance with these regulations and handles disciplinary matters to ensure the integrity of the national canine movement.

Governance: The association operates through a democratic structure, holding General Assemblies to approve financial budgets, activity reports, and strategic decisions. It emphasizes its status as the only legitimate representative of the F.C.I. in Romania, explicitly rejecting the recognition of unauthorized organizations or their events, pedigrees, and judges.