Getting a new dog comes with many considerations – one of which is whether or not they have the “papers” to go with them.
But what does registration really mean?
AKC Registration Certificate
Brandi H. Munden, Vice President of PR and Communications at American Kennel Clubsays the AKC is the registry, responsible for tracking the lineage of dogs representing 200 different breeds.
Brandi says registering a dog through the AKC includes a one-time registration fee for the life of the dog. Registration is confirmed after an AKC Registration Certificate is issued with the names of the owners recorded and identifying the dog as the offspring of a known male and female, and of a recognized breed.
More specifically, the AKC Registration Certificate lists you as the official owner of the dog’s records and includes the dog’s registered name, registration number, breed, name of the dog’s father and mother, and gender. , date of conception, breeder and Owner’s Name.
Brandi says: “AKC registration means that breeders trading AKC-registered or possibly AKC-registered dogs must open their kennels to AKC inspectors, who review the care and conditions conditions to ensure the dogs are kept in a safe and comfortable environment.
She says that when you receive an AKC-registered representative dog from an AKC-registered litter, you follow this simple two-step process:
- ask for a AKC . dog registration form
- Submit your application with the required fees
AKC will process your registration and you will receive an AKC Registration Certificate. But you can also do the process online at akc.org.
Can I register my dog with the AKC?
To register your dog, says Brandi, it must be an AKC-recognized breed and be the offspring of an AKC-registered litter – either from an approved domestic or foreign registry with an approved lineage. Take notes, Brandi said.
That means mixed breeds – even those with purebred parents of different breeds like Oodles – cannot be registered. And there are also unrecognized purebreds.
“Mixed dogs are not eligible for traditional AKC registration, but as we always say, ‘If it barks, it’s AKC!’” Brandi said. “Our Dog Partner Program is open to any dog that is spayed or neutered and allows them to participate in the fun and traditions of the AKC, such as our companionship and symbolic sports. acting like agility, obedience, rally and Fast CAT.”
Brandi says for pet parents whose purebred dogs are ineligible for AKC registration and want to participate in breed-specific sports, the AKC has Purebred Alternative List (PAL) program.
Brandi says: “PALs must be at least six months old and have been spayed or neutered. “Both shows welcome all dogs to our AKC family – because all dogs belong here.”
What should I ask dog owners about registration?
Ask if the litter is AKC registered and if they have a litter number.
“Be wary of excuses like ‘AKC hasn’t sent the papers,'” Brandi said. “Your AKC Dog Application will be available to you when you pick up your dog. Buyers should also request a signed Invoice of Sale from the seller.
While researching breeders, you may also come across terms like “limited registration” and “full registration”. Brandi said limited registration means the dog is already registered with the AKC, but any future puppies that dog gives birth are not eligible for registration.
“This type of registration protects the breeder’s breeding program,” she said. “However, dogs with limited registration can participate in a variety of AKC events including obedience, gathering, agility, tracking, field testing, hunting test, herding, seduction , Earthdog, Fast CAT, CAT, Sniff, Junior Showmanship, Trick Dog and CGC.”
Is registering your purebred dog a good idea?
Brandi says it has its benefits.
“You become part of the AKC family when you register your dog,” she says. “From competing at the highest levels of AKC competition to enjoying the company of your dog — signing up with AKC means you are becoming part of something great. Once signed up, you can access packages, which include helpful resources for all stages of your dog’s life.”
Of course, there’s more to getting a new dog than just their reproductive status. Ultimately, the most important thing is to find a dog you and your family connect with, and then find the right activities for your new pet. There are a variety of activity options available through the AKC and elsewhere regardless of what type of dog you have – mixed breed or purebred.
