understanding your dog's papers
© Kelly Ladouceur

Reading Registration Papers

AKC - American Kennel Club Registration Certificate

CLICK HERE to see an AKC Registration Certificate

One of the significant differences between the AKC and the CKC is that the CKC requires breeders to register each individual puppy prior to sale.  That means that the breeder registers the litter (just like with the AKC), and then typically registers the individual puppies after they have had some discussion with the new owners.  This is especially the case if the new owners are to have any input into the puppy’s registered name at all.  This means that when the owner receives the CKC paperwork, there is no transfer of ownership required (from the breeder to the owner), and there is no cost to the buyer.  With the AKC, the breeder is responsible for registering the litter, but the individual puppies are typically registered by the new owner.  This means that the new owner is responsible for completing the AKC transfer paperwork, which is on the back of the registration certificate, and for paying the transfer of ownership fee.

Many pet owners do not feel the need to register their dog with the AKC.  Most people feel that unless they plan to compete with their dog, there isn’t really any reason to spend the money to register it.  It is a personal choice, but I would encourage you to consider registering your dog with the AKC.  When you’ve spent time doing research to find the right breeder, and you’ve spent a significant amount of money on your new family member, then it doesn’t seem like a big leap to add on the registration fee.  Plus, once you register your dog, you have the ability to enter AKC events (obedience, agility, rally obedience, hunt tests, etc) and you can order an AKC certified pedigree for your new dog.  Some people take great pride in displaying their dog’s heritage, and I agree with that idea.

AKC registration papers are very easy to read, with a similar format to CKC registration papers.  AKC papers do not have an area that lists the number of puppies in the litter, so that is one difference.  Also, AKC papers do not have an area for a dog’s foreign registration information, in the event that a dog has been imported from another country.  However, the balance of the information on the registration certificate is the same as what is shown on a CKC registration certificate.