How to Change an AKC Registered Name

When a dog is registered with the American Kennel Club by the breeder or the dog's first owner, the dog normally carries that name for life. American Kennel Club (AKC) registered names cannot be any longer than 36 characters, including spaces, apostrophes and hyphens; must be written in the English alphabet; and can't include Roman numerals. If you don't like the registered name of your dog, it is possible to change the name later in life, as long as you follow the regulations set forth by the AKC.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog Name Change Authorization application
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a new name that fits the regulations for registered names as described above.

    • 2

      Obtain and fill out a Dog Name Change Authorization application from the AKC. This can be downloaded from the AKC's website.

    • 3

      Obtain written consent for the name change from your dog's breeder if your dog was registered by the breeder, or if the dog's name contains what the AKC calls a "Registered Kennel Name."

    • 4

      Submit the application and written consent (if applicable) to the AKC with the appropriate fee. As of 2010, the amount was $25.