There are a few options to explore if you’re unsure if your dog can be registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC). First, you should contact the breeder to determine if AKC registration papers can be obtained for your dog.
The AKC accepts registrations from a number of domestic dog registration organizations. A dog born in the United States that has been individually registered with one of the Domestic Registry Organizations listed below may be eligible for AKC registration. A three-generation pedigree certificate issued by the Domestic Registry Organization must accompany the AKC application.
Field Dog Stud Book: Includes all AKC registrable sporting breeds – except Irish Setters.
International Foxhunters’ Stud Book (IFB):
Masters of Foxhounds Association (MFA):
National Beagle Club of America (NBC):
National Greyhound Association (NGA):
Society for the Perpetuation of the Desert Bred Saluki:
For a dog with papers from a domestic registry organization not recognized by the AKC, the AKC has a new program where they research the pedigrees of dogs without AKC papers to determine if the dog is descended from AKC registrable stock.
To determine if your dog is eligible for AKC registration, you will need to send the AKC a copy of the dog’s pedigree, application and/or registration certificate from another registry organization. You may also submit documentation provided by the breeder, such as a contract or bill of sale. The dog may be eligible for registration if the pedigree shows there are no breaks in the AKC lineage and the dogs in the pedigree are descended from AKC registrable stock.
If the dog is deemed eligible for registration, AKC staff will register the dog upon receipt of the required fee. When you submit your paperwork, please include your name and telephone number. You may submit your paperwork in one of three ways: Fax, Email or mail to the AKC’s address.
If your dog has been spayed or neutered and you are interested in participating in AKC Companion Events (Obedience, Rally, Agility, Tracking) or Performance Events (Hunt Tests, Herding, Lure Coursing, Earthdog, etc.), you may want to consider a PAL/ILP number.
The Purebred Alternative Listing/Indefinite Listing Privilege (PAL/ILP) is designed to allow dogs that are not eligible for registration, but can be distinguishable as a member of an AKC registrable breed, to participate in certain AKC Events. There are a number of reasons why a purebred dog may not be eligible for registration or an owner may elect to apply for a PAL/ILP instead of registering a dog. Some of the more common reasons include: Dog came from a rescue group or animal shelter, owner never received paperwork from the breeder, incomplete paperwork, owner doesn’t want to pay late fees, dog registered with another organization that is not eligible for AKC registration.
To enroll in this program, the dog must be spayed or neutered. The PAL/ILP number is not a form of alternative registration. Several other breeds enrolled in the Foundation Stock Service (FSS) are also eligible for Companion and Performance Events. Enrolling in this program is simple. The Purebred Alternative Listing/Indefinite Listing Privilege Program application can be downloaded from the AKC website. Once enrolled in the PAL/ILP program, participating in AKC events is as easy as it is for a registered dog. The only difference is that instead of an AKC registration number, you will list the dog’s PAL/ILP number on the Entry Form. The benefits to you and your dog are endless, competing in Companion & Performance Events is not only fun and rewarding, but also proven training strengthens the bond between dog and owner.
