Join the German Spitz Club of America – Become Part of Our Growing Community!
Membership Classes
Members with Full Privileges
These members enjoy all club benefits, including the right to vote, hold office, sponsor new applicants, and count toward quorum.
- Regular Member
Open to persons 18 years of age and older who are residents of the United States (including territories and possessions) and who own a German Spitz or plan to own, breed, exhibit, or promote the breed.
Members without Full Privileges
These members receive club publications and may serve on non-voting committees but do not vote, hold office, sponsor applicants, or count toward quorum.
- Foreign Member
Open to persons 18 years of age and older who own a German Spitz and reside in a country with an FCI-recognized registry. - Junior Member
Open to young enthusiasts ages 10 to 17. Upon turning 18, Junior members must reapply (without an application fee) for another class of membership. Those who do not apply within six months of their 18th birthday will have their membership automatically lapse.
Dues – $0 UNTIL We Have Full AKC Recognition
Annual dues for all membership classes shall not exceed $50 per member. The Board of Directors reviews dues regularly and may adjust them as needed, with possible differences by class. If no adjustment is made by October 1 each year, dues remain at the previous rate. Dues are due and payable by January 1 annually. In November, the Treasurer sends a dues statement to each member. Members with unpaid dues after January 1 receive notice of the lapse deadline, and names of lapsing members are published in the Bulletin. No membership privileges may be exercised until dues for the current year are paid.
How to Apply for Membership
Ready to join? The process is straightforward and designed to welcome dedicated enthusiasts.
- Complete the approved membership application form, providing your name, address, contact information, occupation, and any other details requested by the Board.
- Affirm that you are in good standing with the AKC and agree to abide by all relevant rules, codes, and guidelines.
- Obtain endorsements from two sponsors who are current members in good standing.
- Submit the application, along with any applicable processing fee, to the Secretary (via the Membership Chair, if appointed).
The Secretary publishes applicant names, addresses, and sponsors to the membership at least quarterly. Absent objections, the Board votes on the application 30 days after publication by secret ballot, requiring a 2/3 affirmative vote of those present or the full Board (by mail if needed). If an objection is filed (with reasons, in writing) within 30 days of publication, the Board reviews it confidentially, may investigate, and then votes by secret ballot (again requiring 2/3 affirmative). Rejected applicants may appeal at the next Annual Meeting, where members with full privileges can elect them by a 75% favorable vote of those present and voting. Rejected applicants may not reapply for 12 months. Approved members receive a welcome and full access to club benefits!
