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Enrolling your canine is a crucial aspect of being a responsible pet guardian. There are various registries available, with the American Kennel Club (AKC) being one of the most recognized. By enrolling your dog with one of these esteemed organizations, you gain access to educational resources and information services, and enable your dog to participate in various dog-related events and competitions.
Steps
Deciding Where to Enroll Your Dog
Understand the importance of enrolling your dog. Regardless of the registry you choose, it's essential to comprehend the advantages of dog enrollment. For instance, enrolling your dog provides tangible evidence of your ownership. Acquiring this evidence is a primary step toward demonstrating responsible pet guardianship.
- If your dog is of purebred lineage, enrolling him helps ensure the preservation of his pedigree across generations.
- Purebred dog registries offer additional benefits, such as maintaining birth records.
- Even if your dog is not of purebred lineage, you can still enjoy the benefits of dog enrollment. Registries like the Dog Registry of America and the National Hybrid Registry accept non-purebred dogs.
- Keep in mind that enrollment does not serve as proof of breed quality. This is particularly relevant if you're in the market for a purebred dog, rather than registering your own.
- If your main goal is to register your dog for proof of ownership, implanting an Identichip/microchip in your dog is the best course of action. In the event your dog gets lost and is found by a rescue, the shelter can scan the chip, retrieve the unique number, and facilitate your reunion.
Select where to register your dog.
The three most reputable and well-known all-breed registries in North America are the AKC, the United Kennel Club, and the Canadian Kennel Club. Starting your search with these registries can help determine if your dog meets registration criteria.
- For a comprehensive list of dog registries catering to both purebred and non-purebred dogs, visit http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/dogregistry/dogclubsregistries.htm.
- If you have a service dog, consider registering with a service dog registry like the United States Service Dog Registry.
- The American Rare Breed Association offers a registry for rare dog breeds, such as the wirehaired Vizsla or miniature American shepherd.
- There are also breed-specific registries affiliated with organizations like the Australian Shepherd Club of America.
Beware of dubious or non-reputable dog registries. Not all dog registries are trustworthy. Those associated with puppy mills are not reputable and should be avoided. Additionally, exercise caution with registries lacking proper pedigree verification.
- Avoid registries that only require a photo of your dog for pedigree proof.
- Reputable registries are typically non-profit organizations, so be wary of for-profit companies.
- Steer clear of registries lacking a code of ethics or set standards for registrants.
- Some online registries may engage in unethical practices, such as charging exorbitant fees or disappearing after payment.
- Consult your veterinarian, fellow dog owners, or reputable breeders for recommendations on reliable registries.
Enroll Your Dog
Complete and submit the application. While application formats vary among dog registries, required information generally includes your contact details and specifics about your dog, such as breed, name, sex, and birthdate.
- Additional registration requirements may involve breeder information, photos of your dog, and a three-generation pedigree certificate.
- Obtaining a three-generation pedigree certificate may require extra payment.
- For AKC registration, you'll need the application from your dog's breeder.
- If registering a service dog, valid proof of disability is likely required.
- Be aware that payment may be nonrefundable.
- Some registries offer online application submissions, while others require downloading and manual completion.
Wait for your registration certificate. The time between application submission and receipt of your dog's registration certificate varies among registries. For instance, the AKC process typically takes about three weeks. If the registry's website lacks information on certificate issuance timelines, consider reaching out to them for clarification.
Verify the accuracy of your dog's registration certificate. It's crucial to carefully review the details on your dog's registration certificate. If you spot any errors or inaccuracies, reach out to the registry for correction.
Recommendations
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The AKC offers the Purebred Alternative Listing (PAL) program as an option for purebred dogs ineligible for standard AKC certification. PAL enables purebred dogs to participate in AKC events like agility trials and hunt tests.
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If you're considering registering your service dog, ensure that he is certified as a service dog before pursuing registration. Certification often carries more weight in a service dog's qualifications than registration alone.
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It's important to note that there are no officially recognized registries for service dogs in the US. Any claiming to be official are likely fraudulent.
