How to Retrieve Lost Dog Papers

Purebred dogs are most often registered with the American Kennel Club in the U.S.

Purebred dogs are eligible for many benefits if they are registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC). They can be shown in contests for conformation (their adherence to breed guides on size, physical shape and characteristics, etc.), agility and other canine sports. When or if they are bred to another dog of the same breed, their pups become eligible for the same benefits. If your dog is registered with the AKC and you have lost his or her papers, it is easy to get another copy for your records.

Instructions

1. Download a "Request for a Duplicate Registration Certificate" form from the AKC website forms page (www.akc.org/pdfs/masterform.cfm). The form is a .pdf file, which requires you to have Adobe software on your computer. Adobe Acrobat reader is free software, available from their website (www.adobe.com).

2. Complete the form with information about your dog's registration number and full registered name. You can call the AKC at the number provided on the form if you do not have that information, and they will help you find the information.

3. Send the form along with a check for the $15 processing fee (as of 2011) or your credit card information, to the address listed on the form.

References

• American Kennel Club: Dog Registration FAQ
• American Kennel Club: Register Your Dog