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What Does “Purebred” Really Mean in Canada?


The word “purebred” is often used in everyday conversation, but in Canada, it has a very specific legal meaning.

Under the Animal Pedigree Act, a dog is considered purebred only if it is registered, or eligible for registration, with a registry operating under the Act. For Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) purposes, this means the dog must be eligible for registration as a recognized breed with the CKC.

The CKC, through its by-laws, determines purebred status based on documented lineage. To qualify, a dog must have a minimum of 7/8 (87.5%) of its inheritance from the foundation stock of a recognized breed, proven through a certified pedigree.

This means a dog cannot be advertised as “purebred” in Canada unless it is registered or eligible for registration in accordance with the Animal Pedigree Act.

When purchasing a purebred dog, the dog must be sold with the intention of providing documented proof of registration from a recognized organization operating under the Act. This documentation helps provide transparency for buyers and supports the integrity of recognized breeds.

Understanding what “purebred” truly means helps protect the integrity of Canada’s recognized breeds and ensures transparency for breeders and puppy buyers alike.

To learn more about Rules of Eligibility and CKC registration requirements, visit our Rules of Eligibility page.
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