What Dogs Are Eligible for AKC Agility?

Agility is a dog-sporting event that highlights your handling skills and your dog̵7;s ability to run a series of obstacles. The obstacles in an American Kennel Club Agility Trial include jumps, weave poles, tunnels, a rest table, an A-frame, seesaw, tire hoops and dog walk. Entering your dog in AKC agility requires certain qualifications, depending upon the dog̵7;s breed and health. All dogs entering AKC agility trials must have an AKC registration number in one of the five registration categories and be at least 15 months old.

  1. Registered Purebred

    • A purebred dog can register with the AKC if the dog is from a registered litter. If you purchased your dog from a breeder, you should have received papers with the dog̵7;s litter number and proof that the parents are AKC registered. Fill out the information on an AKC Dog Registration Application and your dog will receive a registration number. You use this number when entering AKC agility trials.

    Limited Registration

    • Limited Registration is the same as the purebred registration, but the breeder includes certain limitations for the dog. Limited Registration recognizes the dog as a purebred but if the dog should breed, none of the puppies can register as purebred dogs, according to the AKC. This is usually because of a trait defect that the breeder does not want passed on to subsequent litters. A dog with Limited Registration cannot participate in AKC breed shows, but is eligible for agility and other AKC events, such as rally, obedience and tracking.

    Purebred Alternative

    • Purebred dogs that are not eligible to register in the AKC purebred category can register under the Purebred Alternative and Indefinite Listing program, so they can compete in AKC sanctioned agility, says the AKC. Some purebred dogs come from unregistered litters or parents that disqualify them from AKC purebred status. Another reason may be that the breeder did not have purebred papers available for the dog or you got your dog from a shelter or rescue group. Applying for the PAL/IPL AKC registration requires two photographs of your dog, showing the features of a purebred dog.

    Canine Partner

    • The AKC Canine Partner program allows mixed breed dogs to participate in AKC agility, according to the AKC. Enrollment in the program requires a basic application with your name, address and the name of your dog. You also choose two dog breeds that best describe the type of dog you have and give a description of your dog. After enrolling, the AKC assigns the dog a number for entering all AKC agility trials.

    Foundation Stock Services

    • Some dog breeds do not qualify for AKC registration because they are rare breeds that do not yet qualify as an AKC breed. These dogs register under the Foundation Stock Program, says the AKC. Examples of these breeds include the Catahoula leopard dog, rat terrier and Appenzeller Sennenhunde. Enrolling in this program allows these dogs to participate in AKC agility events.

    Other Considerations

    • Disfigured dogs can enter AKC agility as long as the disfigurement does not impede their mobility. Neutered males and spayed females also qualify for AKC agility events.

      Dogs ineligible for AKC agility trials include blind or deaf dogs and dogs that have any type of bandages or tape on their body. Female dogs in season cannot enter AKC agility trials.