The American Kennel Club is excited to announce a new feature that strengthens its commitment to responsible breeding and the long-term health of purebred dogs. AKC DNA Kits are now available for purchase directly during the online litter and dog registration process—making it easier than ever for breeders to integrate genetic testing into their programs.
This enhancement streamlines access to AKC DNA services and reinforces the value of genetic accountability, transparency, and informed breeding decisions. It’s a simple change with big implications. The AKC offers two DNA kits, the AKC DNA Kit and the AKC DNA + Health Kit. The AKC DNA Profile, provided in both kits, is the only AKC-approved parentage verification panel that meets your AKC registration needs. The AKC DNA + Health Kit also includes DNA health and trait testing, which is recommended to avoid certain breed-specific inherited diseases. This kit includes over 328 markers for health and traits, including coat colors.
Why This Matters
Adding DNA testing to the early stages of a dog’s life helps ensure the accuracy of parentage, supports breeding program integrity, and contributes valuable data to the AKC’s growing DNA database. This is more than just verification—it’s about building a legacy of trust and health for future generations.
Here’s what this new integration means for breeders:
- Convenience and Accessibility
Purchasing a DNA kit at the same time as registering a litter saves time and effort. No need to place a separate order or revisit the process later—breeders can now take care of both steps in one smooth transaction.
- Early Genetic Verification
Testing puppies early provides peace of mind, especially in multi-sired litters or complex breeding programs. DNA parentage verification is a vital tool for record accuracy and program credibility, and the AKC DNA Profile is the only AKC-approved profile for parentage verification. AKC DNA Profiling is required for:
- Stud dogs whose semen is collected for Frozen or fresh extendeduse
- Frequently Used Sires, effective for litters whelped on or after July 1, 2000
- Imported breeding stock registered on or after March 1, 2006
- Conditional registration
- Supporting Breed Health Initiatives
Every DNA test contributes to the AKC’s mission of advancing canine health. AKC DNA + Health testing helps decrease the risk of producing offspring with specific inherited diseases. Over time, the accumulated data helps shape research, breed conservation strategies, and tools that support genetic diversity and longevity in purebred dogs.
- Enhanced Recordkeeping
DNA profiles create a permanent, verifiable record tied to each dog’s registration. This makes tracking bloodlines, avoiding inbreeding, and sharing accurate pedigrees easier and more reliable for breeders, buyers, and breed clubs.
A Step Toward the Future of Breeding
This update represents another step forward in aligning AKC’s digital tools with modern breeding practices. Responsible breeders are already committed to transparency and genetic integrity—this new integration simply makes it easier to put those values into practice.
To take advantage of this new feature, breeders registering litters online will now see the option to add AKC DNA Kits to their order during the checkout process. It’s one more way AKC is working to support ethical breeding, healthy dogs, and the longevity of the purebred world.
For more information on AKC DNA testing and its benefits, visit: https://www.akc.org/breeder-programs/dna