If I purchase/acquire a dog that is from an FSS®-recorded litter, is the dog automatically considered FSS®-recorded?
In order to have the dog recorded, you need to forward your FSS® application to the AKC for review with the appropriate fees. You should receive the FSS® application form from the person from whom you bought/acquired the dog.
If I purchase/acquire a dog that is not from a litter produced by an FSS®-recorded sire and dam but the dog is from an acceptable registry, can I apply for FSS® recording?
Yes, you can apply to the FSS® by forwarding your application and fee to the AKC for review. Every application will be evaluated on its own merit. Applications for the FSS® can be downloaded from our website, or obtained from the AKC by calling (919) 233-9767 or by writing to AKC, 8051 Arco Corporate Drive, Suite 100, Raleigh, NC 27617-3390. FSS Application
If I purchase/acquire a dog that was recorded by the previous owner in the Foundation Stock Service®, can I transfer the Foundation Stock Service® Certificate to my name?
The Foundation Stock Service® Certificate can be transferred to your name by properly completing the reverse side of the certificate and forwarding it to the AKC with the appropriate fee for review.
Can I put a different dog name on the FSS application?
The dog must be recorded with the same name that appears on the certificate / pedigree from the domestic / foreign registry.
Can I add an additional person to the dog?
The dog must be registered in the same owner(s) name that appears on the certificate from the domestic / foreign registry. A co-owner can be added by a transfer after the dog is FSS recorded by simply filling out the back of the certificate and sending to AKC with a transfer fee.
Can I change the name dog?
The dog must be recorded as the name appears on the certificate from the domestic / foreign registry.
What are the acceptable foreign registries?
Acceptable foreign registries are listed in the AKC’s Special Registries Services pamphlet.
Do I need import papers to record my foreign-born rare breed?
If your foreign-born rare breed is registered with an acceptable foreign registry, the registry papers, your three-generation pedigree and the completed FSS® application with two photos of the dog should be forwarded to the AKC with the appropriate fee for review.
Dogs with two-generation pedigrees, one-generation pedigrees or names of sire and dam only, are eligible for recording in FSS® as the foundation stock of future generations. The paperwork must contain: dog name, dog number, date of birth, sex, color, sire and dam, breeder name and owner name and address.
The American Kennel Club requires identification of the sire and dam on registration certificates to maintain the integrity, accuracy, and purity of its registry. This ensures that only purebred dogs of the same breed are registered, verifies parentage for DNA, and confirms that no ownership changes occurred between mating and whelp
How will I know if my dog has been recorded in the Foundation Stock Service®?
FSS® certificates will be issued for dogs recorded with the Foundation Stock Service®.
Do I have to be a member of a club to have my dog recorded in the Foundation Stock Service®?
No. This optional record-keeping service is open to individuals as well as members of organizations.
If you have additional questions regarding the Foundation Stock Service® program, direct them to:
FSS@akc.org (e-mail)