Complaints

This profile includes complaints for The American Kennel Club, Inc.'s headquarters and its corporate-owned locations. To view all corporate locations, see Find Local Branches.

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  The American Kennel Club, Inc.

  101 Park Ave New York, NY 10178-0002

• 

  American Kennel Club

  8051 Arco Corporate Dr STE 100 Raleigh, NC 27617-2028

• 

  American Kennel Club, Inc.

  1000 Hancock St Quincy, MA 02169

The complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:09/26/2023

  Type:Order Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  American Kennel Company transferred the ownership of my dog without my permission or signature as required on the certificate of registration **********. I made an appeal to them and they confirm it does not have my signature and to take it ** in civil court. They clearly violate their own code of ethics as listed on the back of the certificate of registration and mission statement. TO RECORD THE TRANSFER OF THIS DOG Alterations on this form, except address changes, require an explanation.Misrepresentation may result in the loss of all AKC privileges. If this application contains any error or misrepresentation, AKC may correct or cancel the registration of this dog and its descendants. When submitted all application become the property of AKC. Their MISSION STATEMENT promoting integrity. The American Kennel Club is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its Registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function. Founded in ****, the AKC and its affiliated organizations advocate for the purebred dog as a ****************, advance canine health and well-being, work to protect the rights of all dog owners and promote responsible dog ownership.

  Business Response

  Date: 09/29/2023

  ***************************** indicated that she returned the dog Qenza * ********* *********** to the former owner but alleged she didnt consent to the online transfer of the AKC registration papers back to the former owner. The American Kennel Club received a contract signed by both parties which stated, The original puppy and papers shall be returned at the buyers expense to Weberhaus if you no longer wish to retain it. It additionally indicated,By signing this agreement, I understand that this document shall become a legal and binding contract under the state of ****** and all applicable state statues.  Any and all disputes will need to be handled in the state of ******.
  
  Based on the agreement signed by all parties, the American Kennel Club found that this matter is essentially a contractual dispute which will need to be resolved by the parties involved or through civil channels.  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 09/29/2023

  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID# ********, and have determined that my complaint has NOT been resolved because:

  The breeder contract and ****** law mentioned is solely between the breeder and I.  It is completely out of the jurisdiction of the AKC and in no way gives the AKC authority to transfer a certificate of registration without a signature. (See the back of the registration)  I would also note the American Kennel Club is not even mentioned once in the contract. It is the responsibility of the AKC to follow their own procedures in transferring a certificate of registration.  They are the keeper of the registry, not interpreting contracts and state law in order to decide if a certificate of registration may be transferred.  The owners signature is all that is required.  It is within the jurisdiction of the American Kennel Club to keep the registry accurate as their mission states it is "dedicated to upholding the integrity of its Registry" The back of the registration states, "The Owner(s) printed on the front of this certificate must complete then individually sign this section.  The name(s) of the New Owner(s) should be printed below as they are to be recored on AKC records."  and "...all applicable AKC bylaws, rules, regulations and proceeders must first be followed as set forth the AKC charter and bylaws, rules, regulations, published polices and guidelines."  I was never asked or given the opportunity to sign the back of the registration and didn't know it was necessary until I received an email from the AKC stating the transfer had already taken place.  It was the responsibility and jurisdiction of AKC to contact the owner upon receipt of the blank transfer.  I am simply asking them to follow their own procedures.  There is no signature and they tell me there is no signature on the back of the certificate.   We need to be able to trust the AKC to guard the certificate of registrations well like car titles.  The AKC transferred my dog without my signature.  Will the AKC hold up to their own mission statement?

  Attachments:  

  Back of the Certificate of Registration
  Affidavit AKC Rejected
  AKC Mission Statement
  Affidavit AKC would only accept from me
  
  

  
  

   

   

   

   

  In order for the BBB to appropriately process your response, you MUST answer the question above.

  
  Sincerely,
  
  *****************************
  
  
  
  
   
  

  Business Response

  Date: 10/19/2023

  Please understand since the contract specifically addresses ******** registration papers, this is a contractual dispute which will need to be resolved between the parties involved or through civil channels.  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:04/26/2023

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  ResolvedMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I received advertisement from the AKC for *** analysis for my dog. The dog is a pug, but I wondered if he also had chihuahua in him due to his extremely high energy. I submitted the materials per the test requirements. I received an email on Feb 27, 2023 that the sample was received and I would get the results in the mail in 3-4 weeks. It is now April 25, 2023. I called the number for the *** Samples and was handed off to the *** Samples Department who said: "No, we don't tell you what the dog is. And you should receive the results in 10 business days from this call." So, it does not provide the breed information. Which is not what the advertisement purports. The person on the phone told me "you won't understand the results." I asked if that was because she thought I was too stupid or because the results aren't as advertised. "All you're going to get are some numbers. And he was only in the Canine Partner program, not AKC registered." This was a complete waste of $50 plus postage and I'd like a refund.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 04/26/2023

  Better Business Bureau:
  
  After placing this complaint ID ********, I discussed this matter with a representative of AKC and find the matter has been resolved.

  It appears that I misinterpreted the advertisement. What AKC is really selling with this program is in essence ANCESTRY for DOGS for AKC Registered dogs only. It would be helpful if they said that upfront, rather than have their business partners deluge dog owners with advertisements for dogs who are not AKC registered.

  Thank you for your time and consideration. I am hereby withdrawing my complaint.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  *********************************
  
  
  
   
  
  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:02/28/2023

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I submitted my applications for my dog's two Trick titles and Canine Partner Listing Fee on September 26, 2022. After three months of no response I contacted the AKC and my request was forwarded throughout the organization. I have heard no followup response since January 3, 2023. I have requested a cancellation of my order and full refund (request send 2/26/2023).

  Business Response

  Date: 03/05/2023

  Dear *******************,

  We are so sorry for the delay in processing your request.  Unfortunately, there was a technical issue.  Per your request, we did issue a refund.  If you are still interested in receiving the products, kindly let me know.  I will complete them free of charge.   We wish the best for you and your dog!

   

  Sincerely,

  *****************************

• Initial Complaint

  Date:02/22/2023

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  On November 16, 2022 I paid the subscribed breeder (****************) $800 for full AKC registration rights. This was agreed upon via email, and will be attached to the complaint. We discussed, by ************** payment and ETA of the requested paperwork. After payment was remitted, the breeder became unresponsive and has yet to provide any of the documentation requested. She now has not returned any of my calls or emails. Shes stolen the money and I have not received what I paid for. When I reach out to The American Kennel Club, they were absolutely NO help to me at all. As a matter of fact, they seemed to side with the breeder without having any previous information. They told me it could take 5-6 weeks to get a response, but not that the response would result in providing my paperwork. This is upsetting and unacceptable considering they have written documentation showing payment was remitted and accepted. I want the full registration provided for ********** from The American Kennel Club. This is non-negotiable. Ive paid my money and I want what I paid for. *** also filed a police report with Seattle PD. I will attach a report number once that has been generated.

  Business Response

  Date: 02/24/2023

  We are sorry to hear about this situation.  I reviewed the complaint sent to the BBB as well as the one sent to the AKC.  While the AKC sympathizes with this situation, it does not have the authority to intervene on the puppy buyer's behalf as the decision as the registration type for a pup is at the litter owner's discretion.  This is detailed AKC Procedures for Registration Matters, Chapter XII, which states: 

  XII. LIMITED REGISTRATION
  AKC registration application forms provide the option
  for registering dogs with limited registration. Limited
  registration means that litters produced by the dog are
  not eligible for AKC registration. The dog is eligible
  to compete in all AKC-licensed events except breed
  competition at an AKC-licensed dog show.
  The decision as to the registration status of a
  dog is the responsibility of the litter owner(s). The
  litter owner(s) must indicate whether the dog is to
  be registered as limited, in the appropriate space on
  the dog application. If limited is not indicated, full
  registration will be assigned.
  Limited registration can be designated at the time the
  dog is individually registered or during the first transfer
  of a dog, provided the dog was registered initially by
  the litter owner(s) through the Full Litter Registration
  process. The limited designation may be removed upon
  the written permission of the litter owner(s) and upon
  submission of a form for that purpose, which is available
  from the AKC, and the required fee.
  The decision as to whether or not a dog will be
  registered with limited registration is left solely to the
  litter owner(s). Limited registration is a tool with which
  the litter owner(s) can protect their breeding program.
  We would strongly recommend that if a dog is being sold
  with limited registration that the litter owner(s) make
  this condition clear to the potential dog buyer(s) so that
  there is no confusion about the terms under which the
  dog was purchased. If breeders provide a written bill
  of sale in addition to the registration application form,
  we would urge that the bill of sale include the fact that
  the dog is being sold with limited registration and that
  the buyer acknowledges in writing that the dog is being
  accepted with that condition.

   

  We sincerely hope the puppy buyer can reach a resolution with the litter owner.  We wish the best for ***** and **********************************

• Initial Complaint

  Date:12/09/2022

  Type:Sales and Advertising Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I registered a litter with AKC and purchased an ad with AKC Marketplace with that. I have not been able to get into their system to place that ad, continue to get errors. I've contacted AKC a couple of times, they have not been able to get this processed and have not contacted me back, it's been several days. I had the same problem last year and had to get a refund last year. I need to advertise my litter in a safe format and cannot get this done and not getting any help from them to proceed.

  Business Response

  Date: 12/09/2022

  We are sorry to hear that you are experiencing difficulties with your AKC Marketplace Ad.  The issue stems from the fact that you are listed as a trainer on Marketplace.  The system cannot differentiate between the trainer role and the breeder role using the same email address.  In order resolve this, we ask that you create a separate email address for either the Marketplace account or the Trainer account.  If you would like us to assist you, kindly provide me with a good number & time to reach you.

   

  Warmest Regards,

  ****

• Initial Complaint

  Date:11/22/2022

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I bought a dog on Wednesday 11/16/2022 got dog it was acting sick on way home informed he said it was normal so I wait then dog has fleas I feel a bump on her head. She has to many problem day 4 contact guy he will not take dog back

  Business Response

  Date: 11/22/2022

  Thank you for taking the time to contact the American Kennel Club (AKC). We are always concerned when we learn of sick dogs. In situations such as yours, it is vital to seek veterinary care as you have done and to inform the breeder so they can use this knowledge in future breeding decisions.
  
  The American Kennel Club (AKC) supports reasonable laws and regulations intended to protect the pet-buying public in obtaining a sound dog of the breed represented. Breeders and/or sellers should be responsible for providing certain refunds, replacements, or reimbursements should the dog sold become ill or die from a condition contracted prior to the purchase. 
  
  The AKC strongly opposes the breeding of dogs by those who do so without regard for the dogs welfare.  We support scrupulous enforcement of the federal Animal Welfare Act, and the state and local regulations governing the humane care of animals.  We further believe that USDA and other enforcement agencies should be given appropriate resources to ensure that regulations are met.
  
  Also,please know that the AKC does not certify, endorse, or approve of breeders that use AKC registration services.   We understand you are attempting to recover all or part of your dogs purchase price. If you are unable to settle with the seller, we recommend you seek legal counsel to determine if you can gain relief through civil channels.
  
  
  Again, thank you for bringing this to our attention. If you have any questions, please contact us. We wish the best for you and your dog.
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 11/23/2022

  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID# ********, and have determined that my complaint has NOT been resolved because:

  [Your Answer Here]

   

   

   

   

  In order for the BBB to appropriately process your response, you MUST answer the question above.

  
  Sincerely,
  
  *********************************
  
  
  
  
   
  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:07/21/2022

  Type:Sales and Advertising Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I contacted the business and informed that my dog and the litter 6 puppies had been stolen and I asked if a hold could be placed on the registration so that no one could Register any of the dogs. When I contacted the business I was informed that dogs and puppies had been registered by no further information was given. I dont understand how the registration was switch over in another name with out me filling out the necessary transfer paperwork and why was this allowed when I contacted about the stolen dog and puppies and asked that the registration be flagged but this never took place and someone was allowed to transfer ownership

  Business Response

  Date: 07/21/2022

  I'm sorry to hear about this situation  In order to better reach a resolution, kindly provide me with the litter number and the police report (if you filed one). If you'd like you can send it directly to me at *****************************

  Customer Answer

  Date: 07/21/2022

  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID# ********, and have determined that my complaint has NOT been resolved because:

  [Your Answer Here]

   The dog and her litter 6 puppies was allowed to be transferred to another owner after I informed the business that the dogs had been stolen and I requested a hold be placed on the dogs so this wouldnt happen.  

   

   

  In order for the BBB to appropriately process your response, you MUST answer the question above.

  
  Sincerely,
  
  *************************
  
  
  
  
   
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 08/05/2022

  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID# ********, and have determined that my complaint has NOT been resolved because:

  [Your Answer Here]

   

  The compliance department has failed to give me any policy and procedures involving this case I would like to deal directly with the BBB because Im not getting the assistance Im seeking for is this matter. I only want the company to explain to me how its possible for someone to go on line order a regristration and take complete ownership of someone dog without consent  they refuse to address the matter at hand  my only reason for reaching out about this matter was solely about the improper transfer  policy states that the original regristration must be signed by both parties before ownership can be transferred  the ************** that has be done to obtain ownership needs to be looked at further I would really hate to see someone else go through what Im dealing with  

   

   

  In order for the BBB to appropriately process your response, you MUST answer the question above.

  
  Sincerely,
  
  *************************
  
  
  
  
   
  

  Business Response

  Date: 08/08/2022

  When an AKC registered dog is transferred online, the registrant is required to maintain the original, properly completed and signed transfer.  When the transfer is done online, the recorded owner is sent an email advising them of the transfer.  If the AKC receives a complaint, the AKC requests the original paperwork from the new owner and asks the complainant to complete and sign an affidavit detailing the fact that they did not transfer the dog.  

   

  In order to address a complaint such as this with the AKC, it must be through the compliance department.  We appreciate your understanding.