How to Register a Dog with the Kennel Club of India (KCI)

Introduction

Why it is Important to get Your Dog Registered with KCI? 

Registering your dog with the Kennel Club of India, or KCI opens doors to you and your canine companion. KCI registration entails more than just filing forms; it is a process that aims at creating a rich and full history of pedigree and identity for your dog. In case, you are attending dog shows, breeding your dog ethically, or want some credible evidence, a KCI registration is a safe option.

Advantages of KCI Registration

KCI registration brings multiple advantage that make it well worth the effort. A registered dog gains pedigree recognition, an official record of lineage, which can be a huge advantage if you’re interested in showing or breeding your dog. KCI also provides access to various events, competitions and training resources. 

In addition, a KCI registration certificate can be seen as an endorsement since it signifies one being a responsible pet parent, which in turn helps with availing vet services or pet insurance.

Benefits of Kennel Club Registration for Your Dog

1. The registration certificate comes with a 5 generation family tree of the puppy and in cases where the dog comes from a champion line, the puppy’s certificate will state the names of its ancestors with the abbreviation Ch. which in such cases means champion.

2. The KCI will also send their representative to the breeder to check if the breed gauge standards and how well the particular breed is before being accepted by the Kennel Club.

3. The dogs, which are registered, will qualify to an entry pass for all national and international dog events and shows, organized by the respective kennel club.

4. Registration authority provides a microchip for dog identification, that also help to avert and cracking the dog thefts.

Common Misconceptions about KCI Registration

A few dog owners think that KCI registration is a long winded process or a costly one or even that only pure breed can make such application. KCI registration does sound complicated but the process is very simple and does not always need bloodline details. The KCI has several registration schemes for such varying needs, hence most dog owners can register their dogs. 

Understanding the Kennel Club of India (KCI)

What is the Kennel Club of India?

The Kennel Club of India is one of the most prominent national voluntary organizations in the country which aims for the welfare of dogs and responsible pet ownership. For the main, KCI is a concern when it comes to the socio-economic aspects of dog breeding in India as it is the sole authority for pedigree and breed standards. 

It plays a dual role, as a breeder’s as well as an owner’s resource, providing materials that promote the responsible practice of breeding and the welfare of dogs.

KCI’s Importance in the Development of Canine Culture in India

KCI promotes the canine culture in the country by way of breed registration, conducting events and creating awareness. In this case, for example in case where dog owners wish to participate in competitions and or breeding they have to kci offers assistance and stipulates national and international standard only. 

Staging dog shows, giving out awards, and fulfilling the charge of instilling morals in producers are some of the activities these associations engage in. Because of these reasons, KCI helps safeguard the health and utility of dogs in the country by encouraging the proper interest in dogs.

Major services that KCI provides

KCI gives specific services which are directed towards the dog owners and usually breeders and trainers. Registration services make sure that the dogs have proper verified lineage and pedigree certificates and services like dog shows and seminars promote inward and skill development. 

Also through this platform, KCI encourages the dog lovers to come together to make friends and assist each other in pet care.Their offerings assist canine lovers in obtaining the necessary details and recognition for their pets with full ease.

Why KCI Registration is Important for Dog Owners

KCI registration is not as simple as it seems; it is a form of affirmation and encouragement. An official dog registration KCI certificate helps in boosting the market value of the dog by giving it a legal identity. This is particularly crucial when it comes to dog shows, breeding or even going to onboard an airplane with the dog. 

Thanks to KCI, dog lovers and owners can engage in activities that are designed to bring out the talents of dogs because there is a reliable organization that they are dealing with.

Address of Kennel Club of India

The Kennel Club of India 

P.O. Box No. 6872 No.28, 

(Old No. 89) AA Block, 1st street Anna Nagar, 

Chennai – 600 040

e-mail: kennelclub@eth.net

Eligibility Criteria for Registration

Pure breed Dogs Expectations

In the case of dogs registered with the Kennel Club of India, KCI, the important requirement is making out proof of lineage in order to ascertain that registered dogs conform to some breed standards. If both parents have been registered with KCI ideally there will be no hitches in the registration of their puppies. 

This registration helps in the improvement of breed quality and serves as a guarantee for prospective pet owners wishing to own certain breeds.

Alternatives for Dogs Without Known Parentage

If your dog’s parentage isn’t documented or certified, KCI still offers options to register them. The KCI allows single dog registrations for dogs whose pedigree may not be traceable. 

While they may not have the full pedigree benefits of purebred dogs, this registration provides them with an official identity and access to various resources within the KCI network.

Age and Health Requirements

KCI usually welcomes registrations for dogs of any age. However, it is usually advisable to aknowledge registration for young puppies at the earliest possible time, so as to lay lakes in documentation of the history as early. In addition, dogs are expected to be in good health before being registered because KCI encourages ethical breeding practices and cares about dogs. If your dog meets these basic criteria, KCI registration can open up opportunities for events, resources and community support.

Types of Registrations

1. Litter Registration

Litter registration is designed for dog breeders who wish to register an entire litter of puppies born to KCI-registered parents.This kind of registration goes back to the very beginning of every puppy’s life making registration in the future easier for new benefactors. It is the best alternative for registered dog breeders who are devoted to keeping the history of each animal and is much appreciated by potential dog keepers who want to have a pedigree certificate.

2. Single Dog Registration

KCI provides a single dog registration to individual dogs whose parentage cannot be proven. This is good for pet owners who do not have official pedigree papers but still want to enjoy the benefits of KCI membership for their pets. Through this registration, even dogs that come from unknown lineage are able to gain recognition status, thus facilitating their participation in KCI activities and the acquisition of breed certificates.

3. Imported Dog Registration

In addition, if you have recently brought a dog into the country, the Kennel Club of India KCI offers an imported dog registration for it. Its owners have to submit the dog’s original pedigree papers from the country of birth to ensure speedy acceptance in the Indian dog horde. This type of registration is essential for dog owners wanting to maintain their imported dog’s lineage records and participate in local events and breeding programs.

List of mandatory details and documents required for registration

Prior to seeking registration, you should identify both the category for which you wish to seek registration as well as the process of registration for that category. Also, you should verify before applying for registration that all information and documents required have been pre-checked.

You can refer below recommendation for information:

1. Registration Category: First you need to recognize the category, in which you can apply for registration and to accumulate relevant details and documents.

2. Registration Procedure: When you recognized the category, you can refer the KCI registration procedure for that section.

3. Registration Fee and Payment Information: Find Information about KCI registration fees and renewal policies.

Brief on the above category

1. Registration Categories

The following objective categories have been outlined by KCI for registering the dog.

• Category 1: In case the parents are registered with the Kennel Club of India (KCI).
• Category 2: Registration for submissive dogs.
• Category 3: In case the parents are not registered with Kennel Club of India (KCI).
• Category 4: Registration of a dog from other breeds.

Category 1: In case the parents are registered with the Kennel Club of India (KCI).

If both parents are KCI registered then the Process of registration is quite simple. You have to fill an ownership transfer form along with the previous owner of the dog, previous owner will sign the concord. With the completion of Transfer of Ownership, KCI will endorse the breed and issue you pedigree papers. IKG subscribers can only transfer ownership for the said pet.

The fee for litter registration per pup within the age group of 60 days is INR 562/- and the fee for litter registration per puppy within the age group of 61-120 days is INR 843/-. This amount can be deposited in the form of a demand draft drawn in favor of the “Kennel Club of India” and payable at “Chennai.”

Category 2: Process of Registration of an Imported Dogs. 

For KCI purposes it is mandatory to obtain an Airway Bill copy for registration of an imported dog with KCI. This is to enable the KCI to verify whether the dog has actually arrived in India or not and provide evidence of custom bill clearance and payment of charges at airport authority and enclosing the vet health clearance report especially for dogs that are DNA tested and healthy. 

In the absence of the above-mentioned documents attached alongside the application, the Kennel Club of India will not allow registration of imported dogs. Even in this case, KCI will not provide the certificate until the verification of documents and their relevance has been completed.

Category 3: If parents are not assigned registration with the KCI.

KCI will only register a litter if both registered parents are registered with kennel club of India KCI. For puppies over 4 months or puppies whose parents do not have registration with KCI or any other certified kennel club, KCI will not register them.

However for puppies over 4 months of age, you can register them however basing them on unknown parents.

And where there are pups whose parents don’t have registration with KCI or any other certified kennel club, you are allowed to register the pups on unknown pedigree.

Category 4: Registration of a dog of mixed breed.

Even though many kennel clubs are giving registration for hybrid or mixed breeds under the pedigree for companion, designer dog or conditional registration of dogs. KCI does not approve of mixed breed dogs into pedigree registration but does allow them to be registered under unknown pedigree.

2. Registration Procedure

• You are required to complete the KCI enrolment application which can be obtained from the KCI website www.kennelclubofindia.org or from any of the already registered Kennel Clubs.

• Provide 3 color photographs of your dog and parent registration certificate (If applicable).
• Apply for a subscription on Indian Kennel Gazette. The fee for annual subscription is INR 300.00/- per year.
• In case of imported dogs send enclosure with transport or courier details and if applicable parents registration certification along with pup and parent health certificates.
• Ownership transfer form along with previous owner of the dog, confirmation will be signed by previous owner (If applicable).
• Necessarily, the dog must be present at the time of registration or submission of the application, where physical attendance is required.

3. Registration Fee and Payment information

The updated table of fees is of April 1st, 2024 and Service Tax is applicable in Rupees. (Source: kennelclubofindia.org).

Given below are the information of registration fee and additional payment that comes under KCI.

Registration Criteria and Payment Information	Cost in INR(Rupees)
Registration of Imported Dog	2,500
Registration with Unknown Pedigree	1,000
Litter Registration of puppy as imported (whelp Import) per puppy within 60 Days.	1,500
Litter Registration of puppy as imported (whelp Import) per puppy within 61-120 Days	2,000
Litter Registration of puppy as imported (whelp Import) per puppy within 121-180 Days	3,000
Litter registration per puppy within 60 days	750
Litter registration per puppy within 61 – 120 days	1,200
Litter Registration per puppy within 121-180 Days	2,000
Litter registration per puppy within 60 days (INDIAN BREED)	375
Litter registration per puppy within 61 – 120 days(INDIAN BREED)	600
Litter registration per puppy within 121 – 180 days(INDIAN BREED)	1,000
Transfer of ownership of a Registered Dog (Within 12 Months from the Date of Birth of the puppies )	500
Transfer of ownership of a Registered Dog (More than 12 Months from the Date of Birth of the puppies)	1,000
Registration for Prefix/Affix for life only	10,000
Subsequent Registration of Prefix/Affix with Partnership	10,000
Change of Name of a Registered Dog	1,000
Certified Pedigree 4 Generations	1,000
Certified Pedigree 5 Generations	1,500
Export Pedigree	2000
Champ. Certificate/Dam Merit/Sire Merit/Gr.Ch./Obed.ch.cer.	500
Breeder’s Diploma	1,000
Litter Registration of puppy as imported (whelp Import) per puppy within 60 Days (GSD) – 5 Generations	2,000
Litter Registration of puppy as imported (whelp Import) per puppy within 61-120 Days (GSD) – 5 Generations	2,500
Litter Registration of puppy as imported (whelp Import) per puppy within 121-180 Days (GSD) – 5 Generations	3,500
Litter registration per puppy within 60 days (GSD) – 5 Generations	1,000
Litter registration per puppy within 61 – 120 days (GSD) – 5 Generations	1,500
Litter registration per puppy within 121 – 180 days (GSD) – 5 Generations	2,500

4. Advertisement Tariff With Effect From 1st April 2024

Advertisement Colour Tariff	Cost in INR(Rupees)
Front Covert Page (only for kennels)	40,000
Back Cover Page (commercial only)	25,000
Front & Back Inner Cover (commercial only)	20,000
Second Front Cover (commercials)	20,000
Second Back Cover (commercials)	20,000
Second Front /Back Inner Cover (commercials )	20,000
Inside Color Page (commercial)	15,000
Inside Color Page (kennels)	12,500
Inside Color Page (Regd. Clubs)	10,000
IKG Subscription for 1 year	1,200

Step-by-Step Registration Process

1. Obtaining the Application Form

Begin by navigating to the download section provided in the KCI official site to get the appropriate registration form. Dog registration needs may vary on whether a dog is being registered for a litter, single pet dog or an imported pet. Therefore, it’s proper to select the right form in order to avoid having to redo the process.

2. Filling Out the Form

Filling the application, accurate information is surely needed. You’ll have to state the dog bred, the date of birth as well as the parents of the dog if any,. Take your time filling it out because providing false information may cause problems on the later stages of processing.

3. Required Documents

Make sure to prepare the complete documents that are required to be submitted along with the application. These could also include documents such as the offspring’s documentation or a microchip and an image of the dog taken not too long ago. For the dogs that enter the country from other countries, it is a must to provide the pedigree papers from the country of the original.

4. Submission Methods

If all the relevant application form and all the other documents are ready, they can be sent or taken delivered to a KCI office in a hard copy. If you submit the application and supporting documents, please ensure that all the information and all the documents are incorporated so that the processing is hollow.

5. Fees and Payment Options

Every kind of registration has an associated cost which can be paid via the internet or other duly accepted means of payment. Visit KCI as their website has the updated fee charges and select the most convenient payment method for you.

6. Processing and Receiving the Certificate

Subsequent to the application submission stage, KCI will commence the appraisal sequence. The processing time differs with cases hence sadly, you will have to wait. After the administration of this process, you will receive a certificate which confirms the registration and bloodline of your dog. This certificate acts as a key to unlock various opportunities and activities offered by KCI.

Fees and Payment Details

Understanding the Registration Fees

KCI charges reviewing fees depending on the type of registration selected. Generally, litter registrations have a fixed per puppy charge while single dog and imported dog registration charges are different. These charges facilitate the examination and process of pedigree papers to guarantee the high quality of all dogs registered with KCI.

Accepted Payment Methods 

KCI offers a number of payment methods for ease of transactions. The payments can be in the form of a bank transfer, a demand draft or on their provided online platform. All the same, always pay attention when checking the payment particulars on the KCI site since failure to do so may result in delays in processing the payments. 

Additional Costs to Consider 

There are basic registration charges aside from which there could be added fees for services such as replacement of certificates, transferring the custody of certificates, or issuing new certificates if necessary. Familiarizing yourself with these charges in advance allows you to take them into considerations come the time they are needed. For the latest information and the able fees, check the KCI official site or reach out to them via their support centre.

Registration fees for KCI:

1. Dog Bred in India with unknown parentage – ₹1000
2. Dog imported from abroad – ₹2500
3. Imported puppy (imported within 60 days) – ₹1500
4. Imported puppy (imported within 61 – 120 days) – ₹2000
5. Annual subscription to the Indian Kennel Gazette – ₹700(for 2 years only)

Time for both Processing and Receiving the Certificate 

After Sending the Application Form 

Though applications received by KCI take several weeks to process, most applications process within a few days as well. Submitted applications are then subject to a verification phase whereby every detail included is thoroughly examined. In general, this may vary processing times, and most applicants are able to collect their certificate in just a couple of weeks, thus it is advisable to expect some little delay. 

Investigating the Progress of One’s Application 

KCI may include a section where an application status can be inquired especially for online submissions. In order for this to happen, ensure that all the required papers and the right amount of money is paid and presented. Should there be any issues, KCI can be contacted and they will provide full clarification of the registration process.

Receiving Your Dog’s Certificate

Once approved, KCI will issue an official registration certificate for your dog. This document is proof of your dog’s pedigree and can be used for shows, breeding, and other official purposes. Keep this certificate safe, as it’s an important document for your dog’s recognition and credibility within the KCI network.

Post-Registration Responsibilities

Updating KCI on Ownership Changes

In the event that you have to change the owner of your pet dog, you must notify KCI in order to avoid discrepancies in records. This allows the new owner to enjoy the registration benefit, which includes partaking in KCI events. The process of changing the ownership includes making a request and revising the certificate to indicate the change.

Extending Your Dog’s Registration

Although KCI registration is typically a one-time process, certain circumstances, like updates in registration types or event-specific certifications, may require renewal. Staying informed on renewal requirements helps keep your dog’s registration current and valid for all intended uses.

Participating in KCI Events and Programs

KCI organizes various events, shows and training programs that registered dogs and owners can participate in. These events provide an excellent opportunity to showcase your dog’s skills and connect with other enthusiasts. Regular involvement not only strengthens your bond with your dog but also brings recognition within the canine community.

Change of Ownership

Once the litter is registered, you receive the primary documentation from the breeder. Then, you will have to do ownership change for the puppy in your favor. Following registration, the KCI provides the pedigree papers for the dog. More so, if you wish to compete in dog shows, the ownership must be transferred and recorded.

The certificate of registration contains a five generation pedigree of the dogs parents and dogs grandparents. In the event that the puppies parents are from a champion line, their names shall appear on the registration.

Warning: for the dog registration it is obligatory to be an Indian Kennel Gazette (IKG) subscriber. IKG subscription cost one year is 337 INR.

Breeders and paper frauds

When it comes to breeding dogs, financial considerations take precedence over ethical ones. Hence, many people who waver on purchasing dogs do not receive proper KCI documentation at all.

Once you fill in the form for registration, every dog should have its microchip fixed. Also, Indian Kennel Club Gazette must be subscribed and do not forget to request the same from the existing owner. Additionally, find out the number of males she has been introduced to and the number of times bred. According to the KCI rules, the number of times a breeder breeds his breeding female is once in two years.

Backyard breeding and puppy milling activities view the female as a profit making tool and will over breed the female within very short periods of time. This leads to health problems not only to the new puppies but also to the adult female.

Challenges and their Solutions

Lack of Records

A major challenge that most stakeholders face in the course of KCI registration is the insufficiency or the presentation of incomplete documents. The lack of lineage proof, microchipping details, or even wrongly filled-out forms can hinder processing. As a precaution, ensure that you verify every single document you intend to submit and also assess whether it conforms to KCI standards.

Lengthy Processing

KCI processes a lot of applications which can sometimes make the duration It takes to process any application longer than expected. Should you be in that situation of filling forms and still waiting for longer periods than expected, you can consider contacting KCI to inquire for a status update. However, this should be the last resort as there are always delays which more often than not can be attributed to many applications received as well as the nature of the processing being rigorous and methodical.

Transfer of Ownership Is Problematic

Transferring ownership is also another aspect that can be problematic as regards proper transfer of right ownership and title if there is no appropriate documentation. Before commencing the transfer process, ensure to have all the necessary documents, inclusive of orders that have been duly signed and the original KCI copy. This will, however, ease the process of updating the ownership checks and make it easier for the new owner to enjoy other KCI benefits.

Duplicates of Lost Certificates

Or perhaps worse, you have lost your dog’s KCI certificate wherein case it can be quite frustrating. You will be able to apply for months after the loss of the certificate by paying a fee and submitting documents. If you manage to lose the actual hard copy of the credential, it may help to always have it in a soft format, especially in case it is needed on short notice.

Conclusion

There are several benefits of registering your dog with the Kennel Club of India such as authenticity of pedigree, participation in competition and even access to a dog loving population. It is something every pet owner who understands the roots of their pets and has a ‘KCI’ explorer spirit should do as a pet parent. If the procedure of registration is adhered to and all necessary documents are collected, you will be able to carry out the registration process with ease and enjoyment.

Beyond the registration, staying involved in KCI events and upholding your responsibilities as a pet owner enhances your connection with your dog and the larger pet community. Embracing KCI’s resources opens doors to a fulfilling journey of responsible pet ownership and a strong support system.

Frequently Asked Questions: How to Register a Dog with the Kennel Club of India (KCI)

Q1. What is the Kennel Club of India (KCI)?

Ans1. The Kennel Club of India (KCI) is the primary organization responsible for maintaining dog breed standards, registering purebred dogs, and promoting responsible breeding practices in India.

Q2. Why should I register my dog with KCI?

Ans2. By registering your dog with KCI, you can obtain an official certification of your dog’s lineage, enable your dog to take part in various dog shows and events, as well as uphold the breed standard guidelines. KCI offers two types of registrations.

Q3. What are the types of registrations offered by KCI ?

Ans3. KCI offers three main types of registrations: Litter Registration for puppies born to KCI-registered parents, Single Dog Registration for individual dogs and Imported Dog Registration for dogs brought into India.

Q4. How do I register a litter with KCI?

Ans4. To register a litter, both parents must be KCI-registered. Complete the litter registration form, obtain the sire owner’s signature on Form ‘A’ and submit these along with the required fee to KCI within 120 days of the puppies’ birth.

Q5. Can I register a dog with unknown parentage?

Ans5. Yes, KCI allows registration of dogs with unknown parentage through Single Dog Registration. You’ll need to provide photographs and possibly have the dog evaluated by a KCI-authorized judge.

Q6. What documents are required for KCI registration?

Ans6. Required documents include the completed registration form, proof of parentage (if available), microchip details, photographs of the dog and the applicable fee. Imported dogs require additional documentation like the export pedigree.

Q7. How much does KCI registration cost?

Ans7. Fees vary: Litter Registration is ₹562 per puppy within 60 days; Single Dog Registration with unknown parentage is ₹450; Imported Dog Registration is ₹1,124. Fees are subject to change, so verify with KCI.

Q8. How long does it take to receive the KCI registration certificate?

Ans8. Processing times can vary, but KCI typically completes the registration process and dispatches certificates within 30 days.

Q9. Can I register a mixed-breed dog with KCI?

Ans9. KCI does not register mixed-breed dogs under pedigree certification but may register them under unknown pedigree.

Q10. Is microchipping mandatory for KCI registration?

Ans10. Yes, KCI requires all registered dogs to be microchipped to ensure accurate identification and maintain breed standards.

Q11. How do I transfer ownership of a KCI-registered dog?

Ans11. To transfer ownership, both the current and new owners must complete and sign the ownership transfer form, submit it to KCI along with the original registration certificate and pay the applicable fee.

Q12. Can I register an imported dog with KCI?

Ans12. Yes, to register an imported dog, provide the export pedigree from the country of origin, proof of importation and complete the KCI registration form with the required fee.

Q13. What is the Indian Kennel Gazette (IKG) subscription and is it mandatory?

Ans13. The Indian Kennel Gazette is KCI’s official publication. Subscribing to IKG is mandatory for dog registration, with an annual fee of ₹300.

Q14. How can I check if a breeder is KCI-registered?

Ans14. You can verify a breeder’s KCI registration by requesting their IKG subscription number and checking their credentials with KCI.

Q15. What am I supposed to do if I lose my dog’s KCI registration certificate?

Ans15. In the event of misplacement of a registration certificate for the dog, one should reach KCI to request for reissue by supplying relevant information and a fee payment.