I know it isn't allowed to have "best" in any ad text, but is it allowed to have "best" in the domain name that you are advertising?
They'd have to I reckon, otherwise they could lose a lot of business. Best Western have ads using bestwestern.com
I really appreciate the info guys. I had been wondering the same thing for a while now. I never could understand some of the convoluted terms and conditions and have been mostly playing it by ear and using the old "when in doubt, don't" adage for a while. It is especially relevant at the moment as I am in the process of building a new site that has the word "best" in the domain name. Thanks for giving me the peace of mind to continue with it
I'm sure there are exceptions to every rule. But if the word 'best' is in the name, then it shouldn't be a problem provided that it's part of your site's brand (and not making implications about the product that would violate some affiliate terms of service/use). I'm sure there's someone out there who pressing this exception by using best in the domain, but for the most part, if you're not trying to manipulate, I doubt anyone would make a stink.
SO you can't have a domain like, for example... BestDogFood.com ??? Because it implies the actual definition of the word?
I was looking up some of the restrictions in the affiliate programs that I participate but could not find the 'best' restriction in mine. I'd love to see an example of one of those restrictions you're facing. Nonetheless, a colleague has a number of sites with the word 'best' in the domain name. He does not have issues with the programs he's involved. It's used much in the way you're using it (well, at least in your example). "Dog Food" is pretty generic and the term "best" can be quite subjective. Placing those two together only indicates that the site owner is listing the best dog food that they know, from their perspective. However, on the other side of the coin, if there was a company named "Acme Dog Food" and a site owner used the URL AcmeDogFoodisBest.com, then I imagine they would take pause in that since the site owner is making claims above and beyond all other dog food companies without the permission of, say, Acme as well as the possibility that they would not allow using their brand name in the URL in first place (not that you asked). Nonetheless, if the affiliate program terms indicate that you cannot use 'best' in your promotion, then don't use it. But I can't see how using 'bestdogfood.com" would be in violation... of course, you can always check with the affiliate program administrator to let them know you want to include their affiliate program in your site named bestdogfood. Even with a wording restriction, if you're able to make one on one contact with the affiliate administrator, then that would be the best method to erase all doubt. Never assume.