How do organizations like the American Kennel Club (AKC) classify breeds versus scientific taxonomy?
They define standards for conformation and type, not scientific taxonomy.
Kennel clubs like the American Kennel Club (AKC) operate based on breed standards, which are human-created constructs designed to maintain specific characteristics related to conformation (structure) and type for competition and preservation purposes. This system exists entirely separately from scientific taxonomy, which deals with Linnaean classification based on evolutionary relationships and reproductive compatibility. For instance, while the AKC recognizes the Bichon Frise by its established standard, scientifically it is classified simply as *C. l. familiaris*. The Yorkie Bichon, being a crossbreed, is not recognized as a separate breed by these organizations because it does not conform to an established purebred standard.
