How Can You Get Papers on a Dog: Step-by-Step Registration Guide
Last updated
Last updated
Whether you're a proud new dog owner or someone who has loved a furry friend for years, one question may eventually cross your mind: ? These “papers” are more than just certificates — they establish breed identity, enable access to competitions, and offer peace of mind for pet parents.
The good news is that even if your dog didn’t come with documents, you can still explore several legitimate ways to register them. This guide will explain everything you need to know, including what these papers mean, how to get them, and which organizations offer registration — even for dogs without prior pedigree records.
Dog papers refer to official documentation that confirms a dog’s identity, breed, and often its lineage. These papers are issued by recognized dog registries and serve multiple purposes:
Legal ownership and identification
Eligibility for breeding and dog shows
Validation of purebred status
Genetic record-keeping for health reasons
Even if you don’t plan to breed or show your dog, having them registered and documented is still beneficial — especially in case of disputes, travel, or resale situations.
There are many reasons why a dog may not come with papers:
Shelter or rescue dog: Most rescues don’t offer breed registration.
Breeder never registered the litter: Some breeders avoid the cost or complexity.
Lost documents: Papers may be misplaced by a previous owner.
Mixed or designer breeds: Some hybrids aren’t recognized by traditional registries.
If this applies to your dog, you still have options — keep reading to learn how.
1. Identify Your Dog’s Breed or Breeds
Before registering, you need to confirm your dog’s breed or breed mix. If you’re unsure, consider a DNA test like Embark, Wisdom Panel, or DNA My Dog. These tests can identify over 350 breeds and often include health markers.
Registries that accept mixed or designer breeds may allow registration based on visual inspection and DNA results.
2. Choose the Right Registry for Your Dog
There are several reputable dog registries, each with its own policies:
American Kennel Club (AKC): Strict pedigree requirements. Ideal for dogs from documented purebred parents.
United Kennel Club (UKC): May offer limited privileges for dogs without full lineage.
Continental Kennel Club (CKC): Offers registration for dogs without pedigree through photos and witness verification.
Dog Registry of America (DRA): Accepts dogs of any breed with photos and basic health/vet documentation.
Designer Breed Registry (DBR): Perfect for hybrid or mixed breeds (like Labradoodles, Pomskies, etc.).
Some of these registries also allow online registration for quicker processing.
3. Collect Required Documentation
To register your dog, you may need the following:
Photos: Clear, high-resolution images of your dog from all sides.
Veterinary records: Showing breed, weight, and vaccination status.
Witness statements: Especially useful for registries like CKC, where two unrelated people can attest to your dog’s breed.
DNA test results: Highly recommended, even if not required.
Make sure everything is organized and matches the application form instructions.
4. Complete the Registration Application
Each registry has its own form. Typically, you’ll:
Fill out personal info (name, address)
Add dog details (breed, color, age, sex)
Upload supporting documents
Pay a fee (usually $25–$60)
Submit online or by mail
Once submitted, most papers arrive within 2–4 weeks.
You can still get papers for mixed breeds. Several registries like the Designer Breed Registry or DRA are designed for hybrids and offer programs specifically for non-purebred dogs.
With a DNA test, even mixed dogs can receive papers confirming their breed composition and health profile. These registries typically use photo documentation and vet records to validate your application.
Yes, many registries now offer “open registration” for dogs without parental records. While these dogs may receive limited registration (e.g., not eligible for breeding or conformation shows), they’re still documented, and the registration is valid for ID, training events, and more.
Open registration is perfect for:
Rescues
Adopted dogs
Dogs with lost papers
Dogs from informal breeders
Still wondering if it’s worth it? Here’s what dog papers can offer:
Proof of Ownership: Especially useful during vet visits, boarding, or legal disputes.
Access to Clubs: Join breed clubs, support groups, or working dog associations.
Competition Eligibility: Participate in obedience, agility, and service dog trials.
Health Transparency: Know your dog’s lineage, genetic risks, and ancestry.
Breeding Opportunities: Registering your dog improves trust if you plan to breed responsibly.
Take well-lit photos of your dog, ideally on a neutral background.
Save digital and physical copies of all documents.
Consider microchipping your dog for added identification.
Choose registries with transparent terms and good reputations (avoid "paper mills").
Myth: You can only register a dog if it’s purebred. Truth: Mixed breeds and designer dogs can also be registered through alternative registries.
Myth: Registration is only for breeders. Truth: Every pet owner can benefit from the security and validation of dog papers.
Myth: It’s impossible to get papers if the dog came without them. Truth: With the right documentation and a flexible registry, most dogs can be registered.
By investing a bit of time and effort, you’ll be rewarded with documentation that adds value, credibility, and peace of mind to your relationship with your pet. Whether you’re registering for fun, training, breeding, or just good record-keeping, the benefits are undeniable.
Now that you know how can you get papers on a dog, why not take the first step and explore your registry options today?
If you’ve been wondering , the answer is that it’s entirely possible — even if your pet came from a shelter, backyard breeder, or doesn’t have pedigree records. With modern registries, DNA testing, and visual verification programs, registering your dog is more accessible than ever.
