Breeder didn't mention 'Limited Registration' at time of purchase, no contract exists. Can Breeder invoke Limited Reg?

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When we purchased our puppy in December 2016, the type of registration we would received wasn't discussed. The AKC paperwork we received is for Limited Registration, which came as a complete surprise to us. (prior to this we didn't even know something like this was available). The breeder says she asked if we planned to breed puppy at time of sale. Neither my son (16), husband or I remember this question. No contract exists and we want full registration but breeder is requiring a letter stating we will only breed puppy 1X and then have her spayed. We aren't even sure if we are going to breeder her at all but want full registration in case we elect to do so in the future. Can we force breeder to change our puppy's paperwork to full registration or is it up to her?

Attorney Answers

2
Cheryl Barr ·
The breeder has the right to determine the type of registration. The decision is typically based on whether the breeder believes the puppy meets the breed standard in some fashion (it doesn't have to mean there's anything wrong with it if it doesn't). Puppies sold with Limited Registration are intended to be pets only and with the understanding that the puppy will be spayed or neutered at the appropriate time. If you breed a dog with Limited Registration you will just not be able to register the puppies. I would suggest asking the breeder why your pup was only given Limited Registration, just so you have all the facts. You should not be able to force, coerce or bribe a responsible breeder into giving a puppy full registration rights that it legitimately doesn't feel is merited.
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Gary Ilmanen ·
If the breeder cannot show a contract where you agreed to a limited registration, the AKC will normally issue you an unlimited registration. Of course you will need to contact the AKC to get the ball rolling.
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