Kennel Club Dog Names: Rules for Naming Pedigree Puppies
One of the most exciting moments when getting a new puppy is deciding on their name. Sometimes the perfect name reveals itself naturally as you get to know your pup, while at other times choosing can be challenging.
However, if your pup is a pedigree dog eligible for Kennel Club registration, the formal registered name on their pedigree paperwork may differ greatly from their everyday name.
If you purchase a pedigree puppy from a breeder, their formal name will likely have been registered with the Kennel Club before they come home. You may choose to use this formal name or a shortened version as your pup’s usual name, or choose something entirely different.
For those registering a pedigree litter or responsible for naming a puppy for registration, it’s vital to follow the Kennel Club’s strict rules and guidelines to ensure acceptance of the name.
If you have ever watched dog shows such as Crufts, you’ve probably noticed many show dogs carry unique, sometimes lengthy names, often resembling racehorse names. These names must be distinctive and compliant with Kennel Club policies.
This article explains key considerations for formally naming a pedigree puppy for Kennel Club registration in 2025, to help you pick a suitable and approved name.
Name Length and Composition
The Kennel Club requires that a registered dog’s full name consists of at least two words but no more than 24 letters in total, including all words used in the name.
There is no limit on the number of words as long as the total letter count does not exceed 24. For example, you cannot name a dog simply "Rex," but you can choose names with multiple words that add up to fewer than 24 letters.
Kennel Name Guidelines
A kennel name acts like a brand for professional breeders, identifying dogs produced by their kennel. While not mandatory for all breeders, kennel names are common for those registering litters formally.
- The kennel name, if used, must be the first word in the dog’s registered name.
- Kennel names must be unique and cannot conflict or closely resemble any other approved kennel names.
- You cannot use your surname as a kennel name or within the dog’s registered name, unless it is an established business and meets Kennel Club approval criteria.
- Kennel names must be registered and approved by the Kennel Club prior to registering puppies using that name.
Uniqueness of Names
Within a particular breed, each registered dog must have a unique name. If another dog of your breed already holds the exact name you want, you must select a different one to avoid confusion.
However, duplication of names across different breeds is permitted.
You cannot use the same word more than once within a name to try to create a unique variation.
Restrictions on Characters and Words
The name cannot include numbers or initials. Abbreviations should be avoided as they may not always be accepted by the Kennel Club.
Specific words related to dogs, including breed names, "dog," "bitch," "kennel," "champion," and "Crufts," among others, are prohibited from being used in registered names.
Checking Name Availability
Before submitting a name for registration, you can use the Kennel Club’s online name checker tool to verify if the name is already in use.
Note that use of the checker does not guarantee acceptance, as the Kennel Club may return applications if names do not comply fully with their rules.
Responsible Naming and Ethical Breeding
By following the Kennel Club’s naming rules, breeders help maintain clarity, uniqueness, and respect in pedigree records, supporting responsible breeding practices and the welfare of registered dogs.
