Verify pedigree registration numbers and learn what to check on certificates
Select a registry to see verification details
Buying a Pedigree Pet? Read This First
Essential Checks
Scam Warning Signs
Reputable Sources
Certificate formats and verification methods are based on publicly available registry information. Formats may change. Always verify directly with the issuing registry.
A registry certificate is the official proof of an animal's ancestry. It encodes a unique registration number plus breed, color, date of birth, sire, dam, breeder, and owner. Each registry has its own format — AKC numbers start with a two-letter prefix such as SR, WS, DN, or NP followed by a 6–8 digit sequence; KC (UK) embeds year and breed codes; AQHA uses a 5–7 digit numeric record with mandatory DNA typing. A pedigree is simply the ancestor tree, usually spanning 3–5 generations. Because paper certificates can be photocopied or forged, the number alone proves nothing: this tool parses the format, then lists exactly what to verify against the registry database and which red flags (altered paper, unverifiable breeder, gaps in ancestry) indicate a fake.
The registration number is the key into the official database — the paper certificate is never proof by itself.
Priya is buying a Golden Retriever puppy from an online breeder who emailed an "AKC Registration Certificate". Before paying a deposit she runs the number through this tool.
Verify AKC, TICA and FCI pedigree certificates instantly. Free, no signup.
The Pedigree Certificate Lookup is a free, browser-based tool that helps you verify the authenticity of pedigree certificates for dogs, cats, and horses. It covers major registries including AKC (American Kennel Club), KC (The Kennel Club UK), FCI (Federation Cynologique Internationale), TICA (The International Cat Association), CFA (Cat Fanciers Association), and AQHA (American Quarter Horse Association). The tool checks registration number formats, flags common scam patterns, and provides registry-specific verification guidance.
This tool is for pet buyers, breeders, rescue organizations, and anyone who wants to verify the pedigree of an animal before purchase. If you are buying a purebred dog, cat, or horse and the seller provides a pedigree certificate, use this tool to check if the registration number format is valid and to identify potential red flags that may indicate a scam.
Select the registry (AKC, KC, FCI, TICA, CFA, AQHA), enter the registration number from the certificate, and the tool checks: (1) Whether the format matches the registry's official pattern. (2) Whether the number length and character composition are correct. (3) Common red flags (sequential numbers, missing check digits, unusual prefixes). (4) Provides a direct link to the registry's official online verification portal where available.
Fake pedigree certificates are a common scam in the pet trade. Unscrupulous sellers may create counterfeit documents to inflate the price of mixed-breed animals or claim false lineage. Always verify the registration number directly with the issuing registry before completing a purchase. A legitimate breeder will welcome verification and provide all necessary documentation.
AKC registration numbers typically consist of 2 letters followed by 6-8 digits (e.g., SR12345678). You can verify AKC registrations on the AKC website or by calling AKC customer service. The tool checks the format and provides a direct link to AKC's verification page.
Common scams include: (1) Counterfeit certificates with fake registration numbers that do not match any registry format. (2) Real registration numbers copied from other animals. (3) Certificates from fake or unregistered "registries" that mimic legitimate ones. (4) Altered certificates showing champion lineage that does not exist. Always verify directly with the official registry.
The tool supports major registries: AKC (American Kennel Club) for dogs in the US, KC (The Kennel Club) for dogs in the UK, FCI (Federation Cynologique Internationale) for dogs internationally, TICA (The International Cat Association) and CFA (Cat Fanciers Association) for cats, and AQHA (American Quarter Horse Association) for horses.
The tool checks the format and pattern of the registration number and flags known red flags. However, a correctly formatted number does not guarantee the certificate is genuine — the number could be copied from another animal. For definitive verification, always contact the issuing registry directly with the full registration number and the animal's registered name.
Yes, 100% free with no signup and no limits. All format checks run in your browser. For official registry verification, you may need to visit the registry's website or pay a fee directly to them.
What do you call a crab that plays baseball?
No paywalls, no signups, no data sold. Built by a solo developer who believes useful tools should be accessible to everyone.
☕Support me on Ko-fi— keep tools free100% of proceeds go towards hosting & building more free tools.