So, you’re the proud owner of a magnificent German Shepherd, and you’re thinking about getting them AKC registered? You’ve come to the right place. Getting your dog registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC) is a badge of honor, a testament to their breed, and opens doors to a world of dog-related activities and recognition. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about AKC registration for your German Shepherd, from eligibility to the application process.
Why AKC Registration Matters
Before we dive into the “how,” let’s quickly cover the “why.” Registering your German Shepherd with the AKC isn’t just about bragging rights (though, let’s be honest, it’s a little bit about that). It’s also about:
- Breed Preservation: The AKC is dedicated to preserving the integrity of purebred dog breeds. By registering your German Shepherd, you’re contributing to the AKC’s efforts to maintain breed standards and promote responsible breeding.
- Competitive Events: Want to show off your dog’s skills in agility, obedience, or conformation events? AKC registration is often a prerequisite.
- Access to Resources: The AKC offers a wealth of information, resources, and educational programs for dog owners.
- Breeder Reputation: If you’re a breeder, AKC registration adds credibility to your program and assures potential buyers of the quality of your dogs.
Is Your German Shepherd Eligible?
The first step is determining if your German Shepherd is eligible for AKC registration. Here’s a breakdown of the requirements:
- Purebred Status: Your dog must be a purebred German Shepherd.
- Foreign Registration (If Applicable): If your dog was born in a foreign country, it may still be eligible for AKC registration. You’ll need to provide a clear, legible copy of the original, unrestricted (not a Limited Breeding) foreign three-generation Certified Pedigree from the registry in the dog’s country of birth (Export Pedigree if dog has been imported to the US) translated in English. A complete pedigree must include at least three-generations of dog names and number.
- Domestic Registration: If the breed is newly accepted to the AKC, a special registration process called “Open Registration” may be available for a limited time. To qualify for open registration, your German Shepherd must be registered with an AKC-approved domestic registry and meet specific requirements.
Gathering Your Documents
Before you start the application process, gather all the necessary documents. This will make the process smoother and prevent delays:
- Registration Certificate: A clear, legible copy of the original registration certificate from the foreign registry.
- Certified Pedigree: A three-generation certified pedigree (or export pedigree, if applicable). If both parents are AKC registered, you might be able to skip this step by providing their AKC registration numbers.
- Photos: Two color photos of your dog in a standing position (one front view, one side view).
- Identification: Proof of permanent identification (microchip, tattoo, or DNA profile).
- Bescheinigung/Anerkennung fur das Ausland: If applicable, a German certificate of transfer in letter form.
The Application Process: Two Options
You have two options for applying for AKC registration: online or by mail.
Option 1: Online Application
- Visit the AKC website and navigate to the “Foreign Registration” page.
- Create an account or log in to your existing AKC account.
- Fill out the online application form, providing all the required information.
- Upload the necessary documents (pedigree, registration certificate, photos, etc.). Make sure that any foreign documents are translated into English.
- Pay the application fee with a valid credit card.
Option 2: Mail-In Application
- Download the Foreign Dog Registration Application form from the AKC website.
- Complete the application form accurately and legibly.
- Make copies of all required documents (do not send originals).
- Mail the completed application, copies of documents, and the registration fee to the address provided on the application form.
Important Considerations
- Translations: Any documents in a foreign language must be translated into English.
- Ownership: The AKC application and the foreign registration must reflect identical ownership.
- Positive Identification: All foreign dogs being registered with the AKC are required to have positive identification. This can be a tattoo, microchip, or DNA profile.
- DNA Profiling: For foreign dogs registered on or after March 1, 2006, an AKC DNA profile is required before registering their first litter in the United States.
- Breed Standards: Familiarize yourself with the AKC breed standard for German Shepherds. This will give you a better understanding of the ideal characteristics of the breed.
What Happens After You Apply?
Once you submit your application (online or by mail), the AKC will review it for eligibility and completeness. If any additional information is needed, the AKC will contact you by email.
Once your dog is officially registered, you’ll receive an AKC email confirmation. You can also check the status of your application online through “My Transactions” on the AKC website.
Limited Registration vs. Full Registration
It’s important to understand the difference between limited and full AKC registration. Limited registration means that the dog cannot be used for breeding purposes, and any puppies produced by the dog are not eligible for AKC registration. Full registration, on the other hand, allows the dog to be used for breeding and its puppies to be registered with the AKC.
The Value of Responsible Breeding
If you’re considering breeding your German Shepherd, it’s crucial to do so responsibly. This means:
- Health Testing: Conducting health tests to screen for genetic conditions common in German Shepherds.
- Temperament: Breeding dogs with sound temperaments that are good representatives of the breed.
- Breed Standards: Striving to produce puppies that conform to the AKC breed standard.
Still Have Questions?
If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact the American Kennel Club directly. Their website (akc.org) is a treasure trove of information, and their customer service representatives are happy to help.