Can You Register A Dog With AKC And CKC Parents? (Explained!)

Having a pup with both American Kennel Club (AKC) and Continental Kennel Club (CKC) parents can be confusing as to which dog registry it belongs to. Before you pick the dog registry of your choice, you should be aware that both AKC and CKC have different eligibility requirements.

Normally, the AKC only accepts dogs for registration if both parents are AKC registered with a proof of 3-generation pedigree. However, they do offer the Purebred Alternative Listing (PAL) program for certain exceptions. You can make inquiries to see if your dog is eligible.

The CKC, on the other hand, tends to have more flexible registration policies and may accept a dog for registration if one or both parents are registered with any of its recognized kennel clubs, including the AKC.

Other registries, such as the ACA and APRI, may also provide additional options for registering your dog.

Can You Register a Dog with AKC and CKC Parents?

Registering a dog whose parents are registered under different kennel clubs can present a unique set of challenges and complexities. The specific policies and procedures can vary between organizations, and the details can often be confusing. This is particularly true when dealing with two prominent organizations like the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Continental Kennel Club (CKC).

AKC Registration Of A Dog With CKC and AKC Parents

The AKC’s registration policies are rather strict. As a general rule, they only accept dogs for registration if both parents are also AKC registered. This policy aims to ensure the pedigree and maintain the integrity of the breed.

However, the AKC does provide certain exceptions for dogs with parents registered under foreign or other recognized clubs, including the CKC. For these dogs, the AKC offers the Purebred Alternative Listing (PAL) program, formerly known as the Indefinite Listing Privilege (ILP) program.

Through the PAL program, dogs that are ineligible for AKC registration can still participate in AKC companion and performance events. PAL dogs must be spayed or neutered and meet breed standards as determined by the AKC.

While this is a common avenue for dogs with one AKC parent and one CKC parent, it’s essential to understand that a PAL registration does not carry the same benefits as full AKC registration. For instance, dogs registered through the PAL program are not eligible to compete in conformation shows, and their offspring are not eligible for AKC registration.

CKC Registration Of A Dog With CKC And AKC Parents

On the other hand, the CKC has more flexible registration policies. They often accept dogs for registration when one parent is CKC registered, and the other is registered with a recognized kennel club like the AKC. The CKC’s registration process requires proof that the non-CKC registered parent is registered with a recognized kennel club. This proof typically comes in the form of a copy of the other club’s registration certificate.

Also Read: AKC VS CKC: The Ultimate Dog Registry Comparison Guide

How To Register A Dog With AKC and CKC Parents

The process of registering a dog with parents registered under different kennel clubs, like the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Continental Kennel Club (CKC), involves a series of steps. This process can differ depending on the specific registration organization you’re dealing with.

First, you have to verify your dog’s eligibility for registration with AKC or CKC. Each of these clubs has distinct registration criteria, which predominantly focus on a dog’s lineage and breed purity. If your dog has parents registered with both the AKC and the CKC, you will need to review their policies carefully.

The CKC, or Continental Kennel Club, has a relatively flexible eligibility requirement, considering AKC as one of its recognized registries. Dogs with both AKC and CKC parents can be registered provided the necessary documentation proving this parentage is provided.

On the contrary, the AKC, or American Kennel Club, maintains stricter registration guidelines and does not officially recognize dogs with AKC and CKC parentage for standard registration. However, the AKC does offer the Purebred Alternative Listing (PAL) program. This program is designed for purebred dogs who are unable to provide a complete lineage but who still meet their breed’s standards.

Regardless of the registry you choose, providing documentation is still the easiest way to prove your dog’s parentage. This usually includes copies of the sire and dam registration certificates from their respective clubs.

To register your dog with either AKC or CKC, you’ll need to fill out an application form for registration. Fill these out accurately and in detail, providing all necessary information about your dog and its lineage.

Once your application is complete, submit it to the appropriate club. There will be a registration fee which varies depending on the club and the specific registration program.

Other Registries That Accept Dogs with AKC and CKC Parents

American Canine Association (ACA): The ACA, one of the largest registries of purebred dogs in the U.S., also accepts dogs whose parents are registered with other recognized clubs, such as the AKC and CKC. The ACA provides various services, including genetic tracking, health tracking, and dog shows. If your dog’s parents are registered with different clubs, you would need to provide copies of their respective registration certificates and potentially other supporting documents, such as pedigree certificates, when applying for ACA registration.

America’s Pet Registry, Inc. (APRI): The APRI is another well-established canine registry that offers services such as pedigree tracking and dog shows. They also accept registrations for dogs with parents registered under different kennel clubs like the AKC and CKC. APRI requires that the breeders provide a copy of the original registration certificate and a three-generation pedigree to register a dog from another recognized registry.

How Is AKC Different From CKC?

The AKC, established in 1884, is widely recognized and maintains a strict focus on purebred dogs. It recognizes over 190 breeds and is seen as the gold standard for purebred dog registration.

Registering your dog with the AKC allows it to participate in prestigious dog shows and provides you with official documentation of your dog’s pedigree. The AKC also provides various educational resources and programs promoting responsible dog ownership and health, such as the Canine Good Citizen program.

On the other hand, the CKC, established more recently in 1991, is known for its inclusivity, recognizing over 450 breeds, including rare and developing ones. It’s an all-inclusive registry offering registration for both purebred and non-purebred dogs, provided they meet certain guidelines. This makes it more accessible to a broader range of dog owners and breeders. It also provides various resources for dog owners and breeders, like the Preferred Breeders Program, aimed at promoting high breeding standards.

While the AKC is more involved in hosting and sanctioning dog shows, the CKC mainly sanctions shows in partnership with other clubs. In terms of cost, the AKC’s registration fee starts at $39.99, while the CKC’s standard registration is much more affordable at $15.

Also Read: Does AKC Recognize CKC Registered Dogs?

Can you register an AKC dog with CKC?

Generally, if you have a dog that is registered with the AKC, you can also register it with the CKC. AKC is on the list of CKC-recognized breeds. However, you will need to provide the necessary paperwork, such as a copy of the AKC registration certificate and a three-generation pedigree, which you should have if your dog is AKC-registered.

Most owners of AKC-registered dogs show little to no interest in registering their dog with any other dog registries, as AKC is considered the top dog registry in The US of A. Moreover, CKC registration wouldn’t bump up the value of the dogs, so it’s not attractive for breeders with AKC-registered dogs.

Can you register a CKC dog with AKC?

The PAL program allows purebred dogs that are ineligible for AKC registration but could be registered with other organizations like the Continental Kennel Club (CKC), to participate in certain AKC events. PAL dogs can participate in activities like obedience, agility, and rally trials, among others, but are not eligible to enter confirmation shows (which are the dog shows typically associated with breed judging).

Additionally, due to the need to recognize some rare breeds, AKC established the Foundation Stock Service (FSS) as an optional recording service for purebreds that are not yet eligible for AKC registration.

Wrap Up

In sum, while navigating the registration process of a puppy with AKC and CKC parentage can be a bit tricky, it’s not an impossible feat.

The AKC’s stringent criteria might steer you towards its PAL program, which accommodates certain exceptions. Conversely, you could just register your pooch with CKC as its registration requirements are more lenient. You can also resort to other registries, such as the ACA and APRI.

The key is understanding each registry’s requirements and processes, choosing the one that best suits your needs, and providing accurate documentation of your pup’s pedigree. This will help ensure your puppy’s lineage is appropriately recognized, allowing you to fully enjoy the benefits of pet ownership.