How to Register a Dog Kennel

A dog kennel is regulated under state law.

Registration with a kennel club gives the dog owner the right to show dogs at kennel club competitions and events. A breeder must register puppies to be able to sell them as purebred animals. Each kennel organization registry has specific categories including working, toy, terrier, hounds, utility and pastoral breeds. It is important for the kennel owner to research organization rules and regulations in order to make the correct choice. A kennel registry may require proof of at least three generations of the lineage of the dogs.

Things You'll Need

• Copies of breed, pedigree, birth and veterinarian records

Instructions

1. Save all official documentation and records pertaining to the dogs in your kennel. Keep a file on each dog with birth record, documentation of lineage or pedigree and veterinarian record.

2. Choose a name for the kennel. License the kennel according to state law in the municipality where the kennel is located. Each dog must be licensed. Provide proof of rabies immunization to the municipal officer that licenses dogs. A municipal or state inspector will personally visit the property to assess the kennel and living conditions of the dogs.

3. Contact the kennel club organization that best suits the type of kennel you own. Read about reputable organizations such as the American Kennel Club, Canadian Kennel Club and United Kennel Club to determine the protections, benefits and association for your kennel.

4. Choose your organization and then fill out the necessary applications. Copy and prepare any required documentation. Include the sex, breed, color and markings of each dog for identification purposes.

5. Mail the application and any required fees per dog or the set fee for the kennel. Internet applications may be sent through website links.

Tips & Warnings

• A kennel owner that is also a breeder must have newborn litters registered and up-to-date with documentation to provide to new owners of a puppy. Date of breeding and birth may be required along with information about the dam and sire.

References

• American Kennel Club: Registered Kennel Names
• United Kennel Club: Registration of Litter
• The Kennel Club: How to Register Your Dog

Resources

• American Kennel Club: Rules Applying to Registration
• Dog Registry of America, Inc.: Applications