Determining if a Dog is Purebred
The most reliable way to determine if a dog is purebred is to check its pedigree papers. However, if you do not have access to these papers, you can consult with your vet or consider doing a professional DNA test.
- Comparison Methods
- Compare your dog with breed standards
- Check pedigree papers
- Do a dog DNA test
Purebred Status Confirmation
When two purebred dogs belonging to the same breed produce a litter of puppies, the newborns are also known as purebreds. If a purebred dog’s litter was registered with the AKC by the breeder, the dog is eligible for full registration.
Determining Purebred Status Without Papers
Your first step to tell if a dog is purebred is checking them against the official breed standards. These formal guidelines set out the ideal characteristics of each dog breed including their physical appearance, temperament, and genetic criteria.
Alternative Registration Options
While the AKC is the best-known registry, it’s not the only one. There are alternative registries you can check. Registering a dog without papers can be challenging due to the lack of documented lineage. Without papers, it becomes difficult to prove the dog’s purebred status, which is a key requirement for AKC registration.
Registering a Dog Without Papers
To register a dog with the American Kennel Club (AKC) without papers, you must first determine if your breed is eligible for AKC registration. If your breed is eligible, then you can apply online through the AKC website or mail an application to their offices.
Additional Information
The AKC offers the PAL program, which allows purebred dogs without registration papers to participate in AKC events. With the American Kennel Club, you are unable to register a puppy without the required papers.
If a dog’s individual registration application has been lost, the litter owner must contact the AKC to request a duplicate.