How to Obtain Dog Papers Without Prior Registration
Owning a dog is an incredible journey filled with companionship, loyalty, and love. However, when it comes to documentation, many pet owners face a common issue: a lack of official papers Whether your dog is from a shelter, backyard breeder, or inherited from family, you may be asking yourself how to obtain dog papers. The good news is that obtaining papers is very possible even if you don’t have any prior documentation
This article will walk you through the process step-by-step, explain why papers matter, and offer options based on your dog’s breed and background
Why Dog Papers Are Important
“Dog papers” refer to official documents from a recognized registry that verify a dog’s breed, lineage, and ownership. They provide:
● Proof of ownership
● Breed verification
● Eligibility for shows or breeding
● Health and genetic history
● Credibility for resale or adoption
Even if you have no plans to breed or show your dog, having papers adds a layer of protection and legitimacy to your relationship with your pet.
Common Reasons Dogs Don’t Have Papers
It’s not unusual to own a dog without official documentation Here are a few common scenarios:
● Adopted from a rescue or shelter
● Purchased from a non-registered breeder
● Acquired as a gift or family pet
● Previous owners lost the paperwork
● Mixed or hybrid breeds that don’t qualify under traditional registries
Fortunately, there are still options for registration even without original papers
Step-by-Step: How to Obtain Dog Papers
1. Determine Your Dog’s Breed (or Breeds)
If you don’t already know your dog’s breed, you can:
● Ask a vet for their opinion based on physical traits
● Use a DNA test like Embark or Wisdom Panel to identify breed and ancestry
DNA testing is especially helpful for mixed breeds or unknown lineages and may be accepted as supporting documentation by certain registries.
2. Choose the Right Dog Registry
Different registries have different requirements Choose one based on your dog’s breed and your goals (breeding, competition, proof of ownership, etc.):
For Purebred Dogs:
● American Kennel Club (AKC): Best for dogs with documented lineage.
● United Kennel Club (UKC): Allows some forms of registration without complete lineage.
● National Kennel Club (NKC): Accepts breed verification based on inspection
For Mixed or Designer Breeds:
● Continental Kennel Club (CKC): Offers photo and witness-based registration.
● Designer Breed Registry (DBR): For dogs like Goldendoodles or Pomskies
● Dog Registry of America (DRA): Accepts vet verification and visual confirmation
3. Gather Required Documents
Most registries will need a combination of the following:
● Photos of your dog from different angles
● Veterinary records, including breed guess and vaccinations
● DNA test results (if applicable)
● Witness affidavits confirming your dog’s identity or breed
● Microchip information (optional, but helpful)
Documentation proves the dog’s identity and helps avoid fraudulent registrations
4 Submit the Application
Once you’ve selected a registry and gathered documents:
● Visit the registry’s website
● Complete the application online or by mail
● Upload/attach necessary documents
● Pay the registration fee (typically $25–$60)
Most registries process applications within a few weeks. Upon approval, you’ll receive a certificate or ID card confirming your dog’s registration.
Special Cases
Mixed Breed or Rescue Dogs
If your dog is mixed or adopted from a rescue, they likely have no pedigree. That’s okay! Many modern registries accept:
● DNA test results
● Visual inspection via photos
● Vet certification
You may not qualify for full pedigree registration, but you’ll still receive valid papers confirming your dog’s identity and ownership
Dogs with Lost
or
Unregistered Pedigree
If you know your dog is purebred but don’t have the parents’ papers:
● Ask the breeder if records exist
● Try to contact the registry your dog’s parents were registered under
● Use limited registration options that don’t require a full lineage
Some registries allow registration under “unknown pedigree” or “non-pedigreed purebred” categories