Purebred dogs are highly sought after among pet owners. They may simply love the loyalty of one breed or the temperament of another. Plus, health risk factors can be more easily predicted in purebreds. These dogs are eligible for registration with a number of organizations, but not all owners may understand the benefits of doing so. Luckily, the expert veterinarians at Ohana Veterinary Hospital, based in Honolulu, HI, explain below everything you should expect from the three major kennel clubs and what it means to be registered with them.

Veterinarian Explains Dog Registration

AKC

Founded in 1884, the American Kennel Club is the oldest of its kind. Because of this history, it still maintains a studbook that can provide reliable ancestry information even for dogs living today. To register your pup with this club, both parents must also be registered, as this ensures the animal is not mixed with any other breed in its ancestry. However, this has also led to some inbreeding, as there are simply too few purebreds available.

CKC

The Continental Kennel Club, on the other hand, doesn’t require that both parents be registered with their organization. Instead, a new dog’s registration simply requires two witnesses who can confirm the breed, as well as three different photos. This method allows for more variability in the gene pool without sacrificing breed standards. However, it can allow for some mixed breed dogs to be registered, which could be disappointing for those who hope to purchase a purebred puppy and end up with a mutt. 

UKC

Finally, the United Kennel Club will register a puppy whose parents are also registered with the organization. They can also complete DNA tests to prove a dog’s parentage, even if the parents are unregistered. This method allows for expansion of the gene pool, while also ensuring that a dog is purebred. They place considerable emphasis on ability over looks. In this way, they ensure that working dogs are still able to participate.

Choosing a registration organization for your purebred dog is a great way to prove its ancestry and lineage to others. When you need the help of an expert veterinarian for your prized companion, turn to Ohana Veterinary Hospital. With more than 20 years of experience, this family-owned and –operated animal clinic understands the common medical issues of each breed and can help ensure your dog is as healthy as possible. To schedule an appointment, give them a call today at (808) 845-1762. You can also find more information online.