10 types of paperwork you must keep as a responsible breeder

We outline the key dog paperwork breeders must keep as responsible and ethical breeders.

Dedicated and responsible dog breeders already know the importance of keeping track of essential dog breeder documents.  

Not only do these records help you manage your breeding program more effectively, but they can also ensure you comply with legal requirements while maintaining the health and wellbeing of your animals. 

The benefits of dog breeder paperwork

The key benefits of storing and maintaining dog breeder documents are: 

1. Maintain the health and wellbeing of your dogs 

2. Comply with any legal requirements or licensing laws 

3. Build trust with buyers and new puppy families  

4. Some dog breeder documents – such as health documents – can inform important breeding decisions  

5. Can support with quality assurance and lineage tracking 

In this quick guide, we outline the key documents dog breeders must store and maintain to reap these benefits. 

We’ve also included links to our more in-depth guides on the different types of documents breeders should be keeping. 

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What dog paperwork should responsible breeders keep?

Vaccination certificates  

We’ll start with one of the most obvious dog breeder documents – vaccine records.  

Essential for keeping you and your vet in the know about who has had what vaccine and who is due for a boost or renewal.  

Microchip and registration information 

Of course, microchipping is a key part of pet ownership, as well as responsible breeding. Make sure you document each puppy’s microchip number and registration details. This information should be included in the dog breeder documents provided to the new owner. 

Veterinary reports and health certificates 

For puppies, a comprehensive report from your vet should be secured before sending them to their new home. 

For breeding dogs, your vet can provide you with a ‘fit to breed’ examination. 

A full breakdown of what your vet reports should include can be found in this guide on health paperwork for dog breeders.  

Genetic testing results 

One of the most important dog breeder documents is genetic testing results. These results help you avoid passing on hereditary diseases and increase the confidence of potential buyers. 

Pedigree certificates 

Crucial for buyers looking for specific bloodlines and pedigrees, these certificates are vital dog breeder documents that record your dogs’ lineage, titles, and any unique traits. 

Mating contracts 

Experienced breeders know that you should always use mating contracts when arranging breedings. These documents outline the terms and conditions between the owners of the sire and dam, ensuring a clear agreement on responsibilities and financial arrangements. 

Socialisation and weaning 

As part of your dog breeder documents, keep detailed records of each puppy’s socialisation and weaning process. Incredibly useful for advising new owners and tracking developmental milestones! 

Transfer of ownership and purchase agreements 

For each puppy sold, you should create and keep a comprehensive purchase agreement that outlines your terms of the sale, health guarantees and return policies.  Meanwhile, transfer of ownership documents are important dog breeder documents that officially pass the responsibility to the new owner. 

The Kennel Club outlines what buyers should expect to receive from you as a responsible breeder.  

Licensing and permits 

Licensing documentation depends on your location and can differ from region to region. However, it’s important to check whether or not you need to obtain specific licenses or permits to operate legally as a breeder.  

Inspection reports

Similar to licensing, inspections are subject to your location and the local licensing regulations. However, if you are subject to inspection, it’s vital that you retain a record of your inspection reports to demonstrate your commitment to ethical breeding practices and compliance with regulations.  

How to easily store all your dog breeder paperwork

With Breedera, you can easily keep a digital copy of these paper certificates. Simply snap a photo and store them inside the relevant dog profile.  

You can store all your registration documents, health certificates, health test reports, vaccination certificates, pet passports and sales contracts for each dog. 

Just watch this quick demo.  

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