How to kc register a dog

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Last updated: April 4, 2026

Quick Answer: To register a dog with The Kennel Club (KC) in the UK, you typically need to be the owner of the litter and have the relevant paperwork. The process involves completing a registration form, providing details about the puppy's parents, and paying a fee. Registration ensures your dog has an official pedigree and can participate in KC-sanctioned events.

Key Facts

Registration must be done by the breeder within 6 months of the puppy's birth.
Puppies must be at least 8 weeks old before they can be registered.
The KC registration certificate provides a unique reference number for your dog.
A fee is required for each puppy registration, with additional charges for premium services like endorsements.
Registered dogs can compete in various dog sports and conformation shows governed by The Kennel Club.

Overview

Registering your dog with The Kennel Club (KC) is an important step for breeders and owners who wish to have their dog's pedigree officially recognized. This process not only provides a unique identity for your dog but also allows them to participate in a wide range of activities sanctioned by the KC, including breed shows, agility, obedience, and other canine sports. The KC is the governing body for dog shows and canine activities in the UK, and its registration system is the primary way to establish a dog's lineage and eligibility for competitive events.

Who Can Register a Dog?

The primary responsibility for registering a litter of puppies lies with the breeder. The breeder is the owner of the mother dog at the time of mating and whelping. They are responsible for submitting the litter registration application to The Kennel Club. Once the puppies are registered, the ownership can be transferred to new owners, which also involves a separate process and fee.

When Should You Register?

Breeders are encouraged to register their litters as soon as possible after the puppies are born. However, puppies must be at least eight weeks old before they can be registered. The Kennel Club typically requires litter registration to be completed within six months of the puppy's birth. Late registration may incur additional fees or may not be permitted, depending on the circumstances and the age of the dog.

What Information is Required for Registration?

To register a litter, breeders will need to provide several key pieces of information to The Kennel Club:

Litter Details: Date of birth, number of puppies (male and female), and whether they are destined for the UK or export.
Parentage Details: The Kennel Club registration numbers of both the sire (father) and the dam (mother) are crucial. Both parents must be registered with The Kennel Club for the offspring to be eligible for registration.
Microchip Information: All puppies must be microchipped before they can be registered. The microchip number for each puppy needs to be provided.
Breeder Information: The name and address of the breeder.
Endorsements: Breeders may choose to place endorsements on a dog's registration. These are restrictions that can prevent the dog from being registered for breeding purposes or from being exported. Common endorsements include 'Progeny not eligible for registration' and 'Not eligible for export'. These are typically placed to maintain breed standards or to protect the welfare of the dogs.

The Registration Process

The Kennel Club offers several ways to register a dog:

Online: The most common and efficient method is through The Kennel Club's online portal. Breeders can log in, enter the litter details, and submit the application electronically.
By Post: Paper forms can be downloaded from The Kennel Club website or requested by mail. These forms should be completed accurately and sent to the KC's registered address.

Once the application is submitted and processed, The Kennel Club will issue a registration certificate for each puppy. This certificate is a vital document that confirms the dog's pedigree and includes its unique KC registration number.

Fees and Charges

There are fees associated with registering a dog with The Kennel Club. These fees cover the administrative costs of processing the registration and issuing the certificate. The standard registration fee applies to litters registered within the specified timeframe. Additional charges may apply for:

Late registration.
Export registrations.
Transfer of ownership.
Duplicate registration certificates.
Lifting endorsements.

It is advisable to check The Kennel Club's official website for the most current fee structure.

Transferring Ownership

When a puppy is sold, the breeder must transfer the ownership to the new owner. This is usually done by the breeder completing the relevant section on the back of the registration certificate and sending it to the KC, or via the online portal. The new owner will then need to pay a fee to The Kennel Club to finalize the transfer of ownership into their name. This ensures the registration document accurately reflects the current owner.

Why Register Your Dog?

Registering your dog with The Kennel Club offers several benefits:

Official Pedigree: It provides a documented lineage, essential for breed enthusiasts and those involved in breeding.
Eligibility for Events: Registered dogs are eligible to compete in KC-licensed shows and events across the UK.
Proof of Identity: The registration certificate, linked to the microchip, serves as proof of identity.
Breed Health Schemes: The KC promotes various health schemes for different breeds, and registration is often a prerequisite for participating in or accessing information related to these schemes.
Record Keeping: It helps maintain accurate records of breed populations and pedigrees, which is vital for responsible breeding practices and genetic health monitoring.

For breeders, registering litters is a fundamental part of responsible breeding. For owners, it confirms their dog's heritage and opens up a world of canine activities and community.