Registering An AKC Dog With ASCA
Registering your dog with the American Kennel Club (AKC) is a significant achievement, but some dog owners may also be interested in expanding their registration to other organizations, such as the Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA). Whether you’re looking to compete in more events or want to explore additional opportunities for your dog, registering an AKC dog with ASCA can be a beneficial step. This article provides an in-depth look at the process, requirements, and advantages of dual registration with AKC and ASCA.
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What is the AKC?
The American Kennel Club (AKC) is one of the most established and well-known dog registries in the United States. It offers services such as purebred dog registration, tracking health certifications, maintaining pedigrees, and organizing competitive events. These events range from agility and obedience to conformation shows, providing a platform for dog owners to showcase their dogs’ skills and training.
What is ASCA?
The Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA), founded in 1957, was originally created to promote and protect the Australian Shepherd breed. Over time, ASCA has expanded to allow participation in various events for all types of dogs, not just Australian Shepherds. From herding and obedience to rally and agility, ASCA has become a popular organization for dog owners looking to challenge their dogs in a wide variety of sports.
While it initially started as a breed-specific registry, ASCA now welcomes many dog breeds to participate in its activities, including working and herding events that highlight a dog’s natural talents.
Why Register an AKC Dog with ASCA?
Registering your AKC dog with ASCA can open doors to events and trials that may not be available through the AKC. While AKC events cover a wide range of dog sports, ASCA specializes in herding and working trials that many dog owners find appealing. By having access to both registries, dog owners can take advantage of a larger variety of competitions.
Additionally, some dog owners feel that certain ASCA events offer unique challenges that aren’t always found in AKC competitions. For example, Australian Shepherds and other herding breeds might excel in ASCA herding trials, which are designed to test their natural instincts. On top of that, ASCA offers titles and awards in multiple disciplines, making dual registration appealing for those who want to achieve recognition in different areas of dog sports.
Eligibility for Registration
If you’re thinking about registering your AKC dog with ASCA, you’ll want to first verify that your dog qualifies. While ASCA is most known for Australian Shepherds, it offers registration and event participation for a variety of herding and working breeds. Many breeds, including Border Collies and Belgian Shepherds, are eligible to compete in ASCA events.
Even if your breed doesn’t qualify for full registration, your dog may still be able to participate in performance events such as agility or obedience, which are open to all breeds.
What Documents Are Required?
Before starting the registration process, you’ll need to gather a few key documents. These are essential to completing your dog’s ASCA registration.
AKC Registration Information: Your dog must be fully registered with the AKC. You’ll need to provide the AKC registration number.
Three-Generation Pedigree: In most cases, ASCA will require a copy of your dog’s three-generation pedigree. This verifies the dog’s lineage and establishes its eligibility for ASCA registration. If you don’t have a copy of the pedigree, it can usually be requested from the AKC.
DNA Profile (if applicable): Some dogs may need DNA verification for ASCA registration. This is particularly relevant for Australian Shepherds and other working breeds. Be sure to check if this applies to your dog’s breed.
Registration Form: You’ll need to fill out the ASCA registration form with your dog’s details, including AKC registration information and breeder details.
Registration Fee: There is a fee associated with ASCA registration. This varies depending on whether you are an ASCA member or not, as members typically receive discounted rates.
How to Register an AKC Dog with ASCA
Now that you have your documents in order, let’s take a closer look at how to complete the registration process.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Before filling out the ASCA registration form, make sure you have all the necessary documents. This includes your dog’s AKC registration certificate, a three-generation pedigree, and any required DNA information. Having these documents ready will make the registration process smoother.
Step 2: Complete the ASCA Registration Form
The next step is to fill out the ASCA registration form, which can be found on the ASCA website. Be thorough when providing details such as your dog’s AKC registration number, pedigree, and your contact information. If you have any questions about what needs to be included, ASCA’s guidelines are available online.
Step 3: Submit the Registration Form and Fee
Once the form is completed, submit it along with the appropriate registration fee. Fees vary depending on whether you are an ASCA member, with members receiving discounts on registration services.
Step 4: Wait for Registration Confirmation
After submitting your form and fee, you’ll need to wait for ASCA to process your registration. This can take several weeks, depending on their current workload. Once processed, you’ll receive a confirmation of your dog’s ASCA registration.
Participating in ASCA Events
After registering your dog with ASCA, you will be able to take part in a wide range of ASCA events. Some popular ASCA events include:
- Agility: These trials test your dog’s speed, agility, and obedience through a series of obstacles.
- Herding: Herding trials assess a dog’s natural herding instincts, making them a great fit for breeds like Australian Shepherds and Border Collies.
- Obedience: In these trials, dogs must follow a series of commands and demonstrate discipline and control.
- Rally: Rally events combine elements of traditional obedience trials with a more dynamic, fast-paced environment.
These events provide an excellent way for dogs to show off their skills and earn recognition.
Dual Registration: Expanding Opportunities for Your Dog
By registering your dog with both the AKC and ASCA, you’ll increase the opportunities available for training and competition. Dual registration means your dog can compete in a broader variety of events, allowing you to explore the strengths and talents of your dog in different disciplines.
For example, an Australian Shepherd might excel in AKC agility events but also shine in ASCA herding trials. This combination can be especially useful for dog owners who are looking to enhance their dog’s pedigree through competition in multiple sports.
Benefits of ASCA Membership
While it’s possible to register a dog with ASCA without becoming a member, there are definite advantages to joining the organization. ASCA membership provides:
- Discounts on registration fees.
- Access to member-only events.
- Eligibility for year-end awards.
These perks can make membership a valuable investment for those planning to actively participate in ASCA events.
Avoiding Common Misconceptions
There are a few misunderstandings about registering with ASCA, particularly when it comes to titles and events:
Only Australian Shepherds can register with ASCA: Many dog breeds, not just Australian Shepherds, are eligible for registration or participation in ASCA events. While Australian Shepherds are the primary focus, other breeds can compete in agility, obedience, and rally.
AKC and ASCA titles automatically transfer: Titles earned through the AKC don’t automatically transfer to ASCA and vice versa. Each organization has its own system for awarding titles, and participation in both will require you to earn titles under each organization’s rules.
Final Thoughts
Registering your AKC dog with ASCA can open up a world of exciting opportunities in competitive dog sports. Whether you’re looking to compete in agility, herding, or obedience, dual registration allows you to participate in events hosted by both organizations, broadening your dog’s achievements and experience.
This process is straightforward, requiring only a few key documents and a small registration fee. By taking this step, you can help your dog reach new heights in their performance and engage with two different communities that celebrate the best in dog training and competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, dogs registered with the AKC can also be registered with ASCA, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.
No, AKC titles and ASCA titles are separate. Your dog will need to earn ASCA titles by competing in ASCA events.
Mixed breeds may not qualify for full registration, but they can participate in certain performance events, such as agilityand rally.
Processing times for ASCA registration typically range from a few weeks to a month, depending on application volume.
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