Questions about registering a dog without papers in California?
- FrenchBulldog.com

- Jul 29
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 22
🐾 Q1: Can I register my dog without papers in California?
A1: ✅ Yes! The Designer Kennel Club (DKC) provides an easy way for California dog owners to register their dogs even if they lack pedigree papers.
🌴 Q2: Is DKC registration available across all of California?
A2: ✅ Yes, whether you live in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento, or smaller towns, you can register your dog online with DKC.
🐕 Q3: What breeds can be registered without papers in California?
A3: DKC registers all breeds, including designer mixes, exotic bullies, rescues, Goldendoodles, Frenchie Doodles, Pomskies, and purebreds without documentation.
💻 Q4: How does online dog registration work in California?
A4: Simply visit the DKC Registration Page, complete the form, upload photos, pay a small fee, and receive your official certificate digitally.
💰 Q5: How much is it to get papers for a dog in California?
A5: Registration costs are affordable, typically around $60–$65, making it an accessible option for California pet owners.
🧬 Q6: Do I need to provide DNA testing for registration?
A6: ❌ No DNA testing is required. Basic details and photos are enough to secure official registration.
🐕🦺 Q7: Can rescue dogs from California shelters be registered?
A7: ✅ Yes, DKC is ideal for dogs adopted from California shelters or rescues, providing legal proof of ownership and recognition.
📦 Q8: Can breeders in California register litters without parental papers?
A8: ✅ Yes, breeders can register entire litters even when parent dogs lack pedigree papers, ensuring puppies receive documentation.
🐶 Q9: What are the most popular breeds registered in California?
A9: Popular breeds include French Bulldogs, Micro Bullies, Labradoodles, Goldendoodles, Maltipoos, Yorkiepoos, and many designer mixes.
⏱ Q10: How long does DKC registration take in California?
A10: Most registrations are processed in a few business days, with certificates available digitally and shipped to your California address.
🌎 Q11: Can I register a dog imported from another country into California?
A11: ✅ Yes, DKC offers international registration, perfect for California residents who imported dogs from abroad.
📸 Q12: Why do I need to upload photos of my dog?
A12: Photos help verify your dog’s appearance and breed type, ensuring accurate registration records.
🧠 Q13: Why should California rescue dog owners register with DKC?
A13: Registration provides proof of ownership, supports future pedigree tracking, and gives rescues official recognition.
🏆 Q14: Can DKC-registered dogs join California dog shows or events?
A14: Many independent and specialty dog shows across California accept DKC registrations, allowing participation in competitions.
🏡 Q15: Can apartment dwellers in Los Angeles or San Francisco register their dogs?
A15: ✅ Yes, DKC registration is available to all living situations, including urban apartments, condos, and suburban homes.
🤝 Q16: Can I transfer dog ownership through DKC in California?
A16: ✅ Yes, you can securely transfer ownership through DKC if you sell or rehome your dog.
📚 Q17: Can DKC build a pedigree later for my California dog?
A17: ✅ Yes, as future generations are registered, DKC can create a verified pedigree, even if the first registration lacked papers.
📍 Q18: Is the Foundation Dog Registration program available statewide?
A18: ✅ Yes, this program is available across all California cities and counties, helping unregistered dogs gain official status.
🛡️ Q19: Why is DKC better than AKC for California dogs without papers?
A19: Unlike AKC, DKC is inclusive, affordable, fully online, and accepts designer and mixed breeds, making it ideal for California pet owners.
🐕 Q20: How do California breeders benefit from using DKC?
A20: DKC helps breeders legitimize their litters, attract more buyers, and build pedigree records—even starting from dogs without papers.





