When buying a pedigree puppy, it is very important to check carefully where they come from and what documentation you will receive from the breeder. This will later allow you to confirm your dog’s origins and, within the relevant canine organisation, obtain their pedigree. But do you know what a pedigree actually is and what it really means?
A pedigree dog is a dog whose ancestry has been officially recorded in the stud book of a particular canine organisation. A pedigree allows you to trace the dog’s ancestors and confirms their registered ancestry within a specific system. It does not, however, automatically guarantee good health, a particular temperament or breeding eligibility [1][2].
In Poland, you will very often come across the Związek Kynologiczny w Polsce (ZKwP – Polish Kennel Club), which is Poland’s full member of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI – International Canine Federation) [3]. It is worth remembering, however, that the terms “legal breeder”, “ZKwP breeder” and “FCI-recognised pedigree” do not mean exactly the same thing.
What will you learn from this article? In this guide, you will learn:
- what cynology is,
- what it means for a dog to have a pedigree,
- what a dog pedigree is,
- the difference between a puppy certificate and a pedigree,
- the difference between ZKwP and FCI,
- how to obtain a dog pedigree,
- how much it costs to obtain a pedigree,
- what a dog pedigree looks like,
- how to check a dog’s pedigree,
- whether every purebred dog has a pedigree,
- whether a dog can obtain a pedigree without a puppy certificate,
- what a pedigree tells you and what it does not guarantee,
- whether it is worth buying a pedigree dog,
- what to look for when buying a dog from a breeder,
- whether you can change the name of a pedigree dog,
- whether pedigree dogs can be adopted,
- how to choose between a dog with and without a pedigree.
What does it mean for a dog to have a pedigree?
When deciding to buy a pedigree dog, one of the issues we undoubtedly need to consider is the puppy’s origin, including whether their ancestry is properly documented. Why is this so important? The documentation allows us to check where the dog comes from, who their ancestors are and within which canine organisation the breeder is registered.
Unfortunately, there are still people on the market who breed dogs irresponsibly and fail to maintain appropriate animal welfare standards. For such people, profit from selling puppies may become the main priority, whilst responsible breeding takes a secondary role. The words “purebred dog” or “pedigree dog” in an advert should therefore never be enough on their own to confirm a puppy’s origins.
An important distinction also needs to be made here. Polish law provides an exemption from the prohibition on breeding dogs and cats for commercial purposes for animals bred by nationwide social organisations whose statutory objectives include activities relating to the breeding of pedigree dogs and cats [4]. Not every legally operating breeder in Poland is therefore a ZKwP breeder, and not every document described as a pedigree is automatically recognised within the FCI system.
What is cynology?
Before discussing the importance of obtaining a pedigree for a purebred dog, it is worth understanding what cynology actually means. It is a field of knowledge centred around dogs. More specifically, it covers subjects relating to dogs, their breeding, breeds, working roles, behaviour and training.
Cynology therefore focuses not only on dogs themselves but also on their relationship with people. It covers subjects relating to pedigree breeds, their characteristic features and recognised breed standards. Canine organisations have been established to maintain structure and standards within the world of dog breeding, bringing together both dog enthusiasts and breeders.
We can distinguish between national organisations and those operating internationally. One of the most important international organisations is the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI – International Canine Federation). In Poland, the full FCI member is the Związek Kynologiczny w Polsce [3].
The responsibilities of canine organisations may include maintaining stud books, establishing breeding regulations, organising dog shows and protecting recognised breed standards. Within the FCI system, however, pedigrees are not issued directly by the FCI itself, but by the relevant national organisations belonging to the system.
Dog pedigree – what exactly is it?
Now that we understand the framework that allows breeders to sell pedigree dogs with documented ancestry, we can move on to what a pedigree actually is. The Związek Kynologiczny w Polsce defines a pedigree as a document confirming a dog’s membership of a particular breed and their ancestry. It records the dog’s ancestors, while the documentation may also contain information about their achievements, health tests or training [1].
A pedigree gives us insight into previous generations of the dog’s family. This is particularly important for breeders, but also for guardians who want to know as much as possible about their dog’s origins. The document allows the dog’s lineage to be traced much further back than the puppy certificate alone.
One important point needs to be emphasised: a pedigree is a document of ancestry, not a certificate guaranteeing a dog’s health. The fact that a breeder is registered and the dog has a pedigree does not mean that the dog will be completely free from genetic disease or will never experience health problems. When choosing a puppy, appropriate health testing of the parents, breeding practices, living conditions and socialisation are equally important.
Puppy certificate vs pedigree – what is the difference?
So how can we obtain a pedigree for our dog? First of all, we need to explain the difference between a puppy certificate — known in the Polish ZKwP system as a metryka — and a pedigree. These are two different documents, although they are directly connected.
Within the ZKwP system, every puppy born in a properly documented litter receives a puppy certificate. It contains information about the individual puppy, the breeder they come from and data resulting from their ancestry records. Puppies’ microchip numbers must be entered on the certificates and registered with the relevant ZKwP branch [2].
The puppy certificate can then be used to obtain the dog’s pedigree. Therefore, when buying a puppy from a ZKwP breeder, one of the documents you receive is the puppy certificate. A national pedigree can later be issued at the guardian’s request once the relevant ZKwP procedure has been completed [1].
| Puppy certificate | Dog pedigree |
|---|---|
| received from the breeder of a ZKwP puppy | the owner applies for it through ZKwP |
| contains basic information about the dog and their ancestry | contains more extensive genealogical information |
| contains the microchip number | allows the dog’s ancestry to be traced further back |
| forms the basis for obtaining a pedigree | is the full pedigree document |
| relates to the individual puppy and litter | is connected with the dog’s entry in the appropriate register |
Having a puppy certificate is therefore the basis for obtaining a standard ZKwP pedigree for your dog. However, this should not be applied automatically to every possible situation or organisation. ZKwP also operates a Preliminary Register (Księga Wstępna) for selected Polish breeds and provides special procedures for dogs that do not have fully documented ancestry [1][2].
ZKwP vs FCI – what is the difference?
The abbreviations ZKwP and FCI are sometimes used interchangeably, even though they refer to two different organisations. ZKwP is the Związek Kynologiczny w Polsce – Polish Kennel Club – whilst FCI is the Fédération Cynologique Internationale, the International Canine Federation. ZKwP is the full FCI member representing Poland [3].
Therefore, when you come across the term “FCI pedigree”, in practice the document is issued by the relevant national organisation belonging to the FCI system. In Poland, that organisation is ZKwP. The FCI operates an international system under which the stud books of its members and partners are mutually recognised.
Other canine organisations also operate in Poland and may issue their own documents under their own regulations. You should not automatically assume, however, that every pedigree issued by any association is equivalent to a ZKwP document recognised within the FCI system. If you are buying a puppy, do not ask only “does the dog have a pedigree?” — also ask “which organisation issues that pedigree?”
How do you obtain a dog pedigree?
To obtain a pedigree for your dog, you need to take the relevant documentation to one of the branches of the Związek Kynologiczny w Polsce. In the ZKwP system, you need the puppy certificate issued by ZKwP as well as the contract of sale. You also need to become a member of the organisation [1].
In simplified form, the process looks like this:
- you receive the puppy certificate from the breeder,
- you visit your chosen ZKwP branch,
- you complete the membership formalities,
- you submit the puppy certificate and contract of sale,
- you pay the required fees,
- the documentation is forwarded by the branch to the ZKwP Head Office,
- once the document has been prepared, you collect it according to the arrangements of the relevant branch.
A dog pedigree contains information that makes it possible to identify the individual animal and trace their ancestry. It includes, among other things, the dog’s registered name, date of birth, breed, sex, identification details and information about their ancestors. A pedigree is therefore much more extensive documentation of ancestry than the puppy certificate itself.
How much does a dog pedigree cost and how long does it take?
This is one of the questions that frequently appears in Google searches. According to current ZKwP information, a national pedigree issued under the standard procedure costs PLN 100, whilst the express procedure costs PLN 400 [1]. These are the fees for issuing the document itself, and additional branch or membership fees may also apply when registering the dog.
The standard processing time for a national pedigree is currently 30 working days, while the express procedure provides for preparation of the document within 5 working days. The processing period begins when the puppy certificate or relevant application reaches the ZKwP Head Office [1].
Different charges apply to export pedigrees. At present, a standard export pedigree costs PLN 200, while the express service costs PLN 400 [1]. Before submitting your documents, it is always worth checking the current fee schedule again, as procedures and fees may change in the future.
What does a dog pedigree look like?
A dog pedigree is an official document containing information about the individual animal and their genealogy. ZKwP has used a new pedigree format since August 2023. The document is double-sided, contains a hologram and QR code, whilst the export pedigree is prepared in English [6].
The pedigree contains information that makes it possible to identify the dog and their ancestors. The dog’s official registered name is also connected with their kennel name. This allows the document to trace successive generations of animals from which the dog descends.
If you have doubts about a document you have received, do not judge its authenticity solely by the appearance of the paper, logo or stamp. It is much safer to verify the microchip number, the dog’s details, the breeder and the organisation that issued the document.
How can you check a dog’s pedigree?
If you are buying a puppy, you do not have to rely entirely on the breeder’s assurance that the dog “has a pedigree”. First, check which organisation the breeder belongs to and what document you will actually receive with your puppy. If the breeder claims to be part of the FCI system in Poland, remember that Poland’s full FCI member is ZKwP [3].
For a ZKwP puppy, you can also use the organisation’s official microchip database. After entering the 15-digit microchip number, the database allows you to verify basic information about the dog and the ZKwP branch that issued the puppy certificate [5]. The microchip number shown in the documentation should correspond with the number identifying the individual dog.
When checking the documentation, it is therefore worth:
- comparing the dog’s microchip number with the puppy certificate or pedigree,
- checking the microchip in the ZKwP database if the dog comes from a ZKwP breeder,
- checking the breeder’s name and organisation,
- comparing the puppy’s details with the documents received,
- contacting the relevant ZKwP branch directly if you have any doubts.
If the document was issued by another organisation, check the procedures of that particular organisation. Simply using the word “pedigree” does not mean that the document belongs to the ZKwP/FCI system.
Can a dog obtain a pedigree without a puppy certificate?
Under the standard ZKwP procedure, the basis for obtaining a pedigree is a puppy certificate issued by the organisation. If you are buying a puppy from a ZKwP breeder, the puppy certificate is therefore one of the documents you should receive. It can then be used to begin the procedure for obtaining a pedigree [1].
This does not mean, however, that there are no exceptions within the entire system. ZKwP operates a Preliminary Register for specified Polish breeds, under which, in certain circumstances, adult dogs and bitches without fully documented generations of ancestry may be entered after completing the relevant qualification procedure [1][2].
For somebody buying a typical puppy from a ZKwP breeder, however, the most important rule is straightforward: if a breeder states that a puppy comes from a registered ZKwP litter, they should provide the appropriate documentation for that puppy.
What does a dog pedigree give you?
A pedigree dog has documented ancestry within a particular canine system. Their family line can be traced through successive generations, making it possible to understand the animal’s origins in much greater detail. This is particularly important for breeders and people interested in a specific breed.
Having the appropriate pedigree may also allow the dog to participate in shows organised according to the rules of the relevant canine organisation. Documentation of ancestry is also required if the dog is to be considered for breeding in the future.
There is, however, a very common misconception that needs to be corrected: having a pedigree does not automatically give a dog breeding status. Within ZKwP, breeding qualification is a separate process and requires the conditions set out in the Regulations for the Breeding of Pedigree Dogs to be met. A dog or bitch receives breeding eligibility only once the appropriate entry has been made in the pedigree [2].
Therefore, if the offspring of our pedigree dog are to receive ZKwP documentation, simply having a pedigree is not enough. The breeding requirements and procedures concerning mating, litter registration, identification and inspection of puppies must also be fulfilled.
What does a dog pedigree confirm, and what does it not guarantee?
A pedigree is an important document, but it is easy to attribute more meaning to it than it actually has. It is best to separate the information that can be obtained from the documentation from the characteristics of an individual dog that no document can guarantee.
| A pedigree may confirm | A pedigree does not, by itself, guarantee |
|---|---|
| documented ancestry | that the dog will never become ill |
| ancestors entered in stud books | freedom from all inherited diseases |
| breed status within a particular system | a specific temperament |
| certain information about ancestors | ideal conditions at every breeder |
| the ability to trace genealogy | automatic breeding eligibility |
| a basis for specific canine procedures | that every breeder acts equally responsibly |
A pedigree should therefore be one of the things you check when choosing a breeder, rather than the only criterion. It is equally important to consider the health and relevant testing of the parents, living conditions, the way puppies are socialised and the breeder’s overall approach.
What is the difference between a dog with and without a pedigree?
A pedigree dog is an animal whose documentation confirms their ancestry from dogs registered with a particular canine organisation. This document, known as a pedigree, contains information about the dog’s ancestors, including their registered names, registration numbers and — depending on the documentation — show or sporting titles, health tests or training achievements. A pedigree dog is bred with reference to defined breed standards, and their ancestry can be traced through successive generations.
A dog without a pedigree does not have this type of genealogical documentation within the relevant system. This does not mean, however, that they are in any way a less valuable companion. The document tells us primarily about the dog’s ancestry, not the value of the relationship we can build with them.
If you would like to explore this subject further, read our guide Is a mongrel worse than a purebred dog?.
Does every purebred dog have a pedigree?
The answer depends partly on what we mean by the term “purebred dog”. In everyday language, people often describe a dog as purebred simply because they look like a representative of a particular breed. Appearance alone cannot confirm the dog’s genealogy.
Under the ZKwP Regulations for the Breeding of Pedigree Dogs, a pedigree dog is defined, among other things, as a dog that conforms to the breed standard and has documented, multi-generational ancestry from dogs of the same breed recorded in a ZKwP pedigree or in the documentation of an appropriate FCI organisation [2]. In this sense, documented ancestry is one of the key elements.
A dog may therefore look like a Maltese, Border Collie or French Bulldog, but without the appropriate documentation we cannot establish their full ancestry from appearance alone.
Is a pedigree necessary?
Whether a dog needs a pedigree depends on the individual preferences and objectives of their guardian. There are several factors worth considering. Dog shows may require a recognised pedigree from the relevant system if you intend to participate, whilst breeders use ancestry documentation to monitor bloodlines and plan matings.
A pedigree confirms the dog’s ancestry, which may be important for people interested in a specific breed and the monitoring of breeding lines. Although it does not guarantee good health or a particular temperament, responsible breeders can use documentation, health testing and selection to make more informed breeding decisions.
If you do not plan to participate in shows or breed dogs, obtaining the pedigree itself on the basis of the puppy certificate may not be essential in everyday life. For many guardians, however, it remains a valuable part of their dog’s documentation and an official record of their ancestry.
Is it worth buying a pedigree dog?
The decision to buy a pedigree dog depends on the individual preferences, needs and circumstances of each future guardian. There are several factors worth considering. Firstly, documented ancestry may be important for people who are specifically looking for a particular breed because it allows the dog’s origins to be confirmed.
Responsible breeders also carry out breeding selection and appropriate health tests for the particular breed. Pedigree bloodlines are documented, which can provide important information about ancestors and support more informed breeding decisions. This does not mean, however, that every pedigree dog will be healthy or have exactly the temperament you expect.
If you are planning to participate in dog shows or breed dogs in the future, the appropriate documentation will usually be necessary. If, on the other hand, you are simply looking for a family companion, a pedigree can still provide valuable information about the dog’s ancestry, but it should never be the only selection criterion.
What should you look for when buying a pedigree dog?
There are several important things to consider when buying a pedigree dog. Firstly, it is important to choose a responsible breeder who has good feedback and is willing to answer questions openly. Check whether the breeder follows the rules of their organisation and, above all, whether the welfare of their dogs is genuinely a priority.
Next, make sure the dog’s parents have undergone the appropriate health tests for conditions relevant to their breed. The breeder should be able to provide documentation confirming the results. It is also important to look at the conditions in which the dogs are kept. They should live in a clean and safe environment, with appropriate veterinary care and socialisation.
Another important aspect is checking that the dog’s parents have the appropriate documentation confirming their ancestry. A pedigree makes it possible to trace the dog’s origins and review information recorded about their ancestors. In the case of a ZKwP puppy, it is also worth checking the puppy certificate and microchip number.
You should also ask the breeder about the temperament of the dog’s parents. A good breeder should be able to provide information about their behaviour and character. If possible, it is worth visiting the breeder in person so that you can see the puppies, their mother and the environment in which they are being raised [7].
When completing the purchase, it is always worth signing a contract of sale setting out the parties’ details, information about the dog and the most important terms of the transaction. ZKwP also recommends signing a contract and reminds buyers to collect the puppy’s documentation [7]. Do not be afraid to ask questions — a responsible breeder will usually also want to know what kind of home their puppy is going to.
Nearly 15 years of experience have shown us just how different dogs can be
At Bowl&Bone Republic, we have been designing PREMIUM dog accessories for nearly 15 years. During that time, a great deal of our practical knowledge has come not only from our work on comfort, fit and functionality, but also from hundreds of comments, suggestions and stories shared by dog guardians, as well as feedback from thousands of customers using Bowl&Bone Republic products.
One thing is particularly clear: even dogs of the same breed can differ significantly in temperament, preferences and everyday needs. One dog may require a great deal of activity, another a calmer daily rhythm, whilst another may have entirely different preferences when it comes to rest or walks.
A pedigree can therefore tell us a great deal about a dog’s ancestry, but it cannot describe the entire animal. Getting to know an individual dog begins only when you start living together, observing their behaviour and responding to their own particular needs.
It is worth keeping all your dog’s documents in one place
When buying a dog with documented ancestry, you will quickly notice that the number of important documents can grow. Alongside the puppy certificate and pedigree, you may have a health record or passport, test results, vaccination records, veterinary documentation and the contract of sale.
If you want to make sure all your dog’s documents stay together and none of them goes missing, keeping them in a convenient pouch can be a practical solution. The Bowl&Bone Republic MONACO dog document pouch was designed specifically so that your dog’s most important documents can be stored together and conveniently taken to veterinary appointments or on trips.
High-quality craftsmanship and durable materials improve everyday convenience for the guardian, whilst well-organised documentation means less stress when you suddenly need a passport, health record or test result. You can find more practical solutions in our dog accessories collection.
How should you prepare for a puppy arriving from a breeder?
Documentation is very important, but it is also worth preparing your home properly before the puppy arrives. Your dog will need a quiet place to rest, bowls, food, safe walking accessories and a few things that will help them gradually settle into their new surroundings.
You do not need to buy everything at once. It is far more important that the first accessories are properly fitted, comfortable and made from high-quality materials. For the dog, this means greater comfort from their first days at home, whilst for the guardian it often means easier and much longer-lasting everyday use.
If you are currently preparing your home for a new member of the family, have a look at our guide New dog essentials – what to buy before your dog comes home?. It is also worth preparing a comfortable dog bed in advance so that your puppy has their own calm space for sleep and recovery from the very first days.
Pedigree dogs looking for new homes – is it possible?
It is possible to find pedigree dogs that need to be rehomed or adopted. Breeders may look for new homes for adult dogs, animals that have finished their breeding careers or dogs that, for various reasons, have returned to the breeder. Rescue organisations and shelters may also have pedigree dogs in their care after they have been abandoned, removed because of neglect or simply lost their previous home.
Guardians may need to rehome pedigree dogs because of moving home, health problems or changes in lifestyle. To find a pedigree dog in need of a new home, you can contact breeders, rescue organisations, shelters and charities specialising in particular breeds. It is important to check the dog’s background and learn as much as possible about their history.
Adopting a pedigree dog can be a wonderful opportunity to find a loyal companion whilst also helping an animal in need. However, we recommend being very cautious with random online adverts. If you come across advertisements such as “Maltese with pedigree looking for a home” or “Border Collie with pedigree for rehoming”, make sure that the breed really is appropriate for you before making any decision.
The fact that somebody wants to rehome a dog of a particular breed should not be the only reason you decide on that dog. First learn about their needs, temperament, activity levels and requirements, and then consider whether they suit your lifestyle.
Can you change the name of a pedigree dog?
Yes, you can change the name you use for your dog in everyday life. With a pedigree dog, however, it is important to distinguish between the everyday name used by their guardian and the dog’s official registered name recorded in the breeding documentation.
Within ZKwP, the dog’s official name together with the registered kennel name forms part of the documentation. This does not mean that you have to call your dog by exactly that name at home. You can choose a shorter or completely different name and consistently teach your dog to respond to it.
It is important for the new name to be easy to remember and to use it consistently so that you do not create unnecessary confusion for the dog. If you are interested in formally changing information shown in official documentation, however, it is best to contact the organisation that issued the document and ask about the procedure currently in force.
Names for pedigree dogs
Choosing a name for a pedigree dog is certainly an important step for the breeder because the official name appears in documentation, at dog shows and in canine databases. A pedigree dog’s name can be elegant, unique and easy to remember.
When choosing an everyday name, it is also worth making sure it is convenient to use and easy to pronounce. Ideally, it should not sound too similar to frequently used cues, as this can help the dog distinguish between different messages.
It is also worth knowing that, contrary to a common belief, ZKwP does have specific rules for the official names of puppies. All puppies born in the same litter are given names beginning with the same letter, and all puppies from a particular breeder carry the breeder’s registered kennel name [2].
Pedigree or non-pedigree dog – which should you choose?
The choice between a dog with a pedigree and one without depends on many factors, including your preferences and lifestyle. Dogs with documented ancestry allow you to understand their family line much more accurately and provide greater predictability regarding some characteristics typical of a specific breed. Appropriate documentation is also required if you plan to participate in certain dog shows or are considering breeding in the future.
Reputable and responsible breeders often also provide support and advice to new guardians. It is important to remember, however, that pedigree dogs can also be predisposed to particular conditions associated with their breed. A pedigree should therefore always be considered alongside health testing, breeding conditions and the breeder’s approach.
If you are looking for particular breed traits, documented ancestry and intend to participate in dog shows, a responsibly selected dog with the appropriate documentation may be a good choice. If, on the other hand, you want to help a homeless dog and breed is not your main concern, a mongrel, crossbreed or dog of a particular breed type can be an equally wonderful companion.
Ultimately, the decision depends on what matters most to you in your relationship with your future companion. A pedigree describes a dog’s ancestry. It does not determine the value of the relationship you can build together.
A pedigree dog – it matters
So, if you want to welcome a pedigree dog into your care, make sure you know where they come from, which organisation the breeder is registered with and what documentation you will actually receive. This is extremely important if documented ancestry matters to you. Under no circumstances should we support places where animal welfare and responsible care are treated as secondary considerations.
Check the puppy certificate or pedigree, the microchip number, the parents’ documentation and the conditions in which the puppies are being raised. Talk to the breeder and ask questions. Choosing a dog responsibly begins long before the day you bring them home.
A pedigree can provide very valuable information about your dog’s ancestry, but it does not replace choosing a breeder responsibly or providing good everyday care afterwards. Whether your dog has generations of documented ancestors or is a unique mongrel adopted from a shelter, once they come into your care, their health, safety, comfort and the relationship you build together become what matters most.
If you are preparing to welcome a new dog into your home, have a look at the other Bowl&Bone Republic guides as well. You will find practical advice on new-dog essentials, rest, walks, behaviour and everyday care, along with solutions designed to provide a high level of comfort for your dog and convenient everyday use for their guardian.
– the Bowl&Bone Republic team
FAQ – frequently asked questions about the article –
Pedigree dog – what does it mean and what does a dog pedigree tell you?
What does it mean for a dog to have a pedigree?
A pedigree dog has documented ancestry recorded in the stud book of a particular canine organisation. The pedigree allows their ancestors to be checked and confirms ancestry within the relevant system. In Poland, within the FCI system, this documentation is managed by the Związek Kynologiczny w Polsce.
What is a dog pedigree?
A pedigree is a document confirming a dog’s membership of a particular breed and their ancestry within a particular canine system. It contains the dog’s details and information about their ancestors. It is not, however, a guarantee of perfect health or a particular temperament [1].
What does a dog pedigree give you?
A pedigree allows you to trace a dog’s ancestry and may be needed for registration, shows and later breeding procedures. The document itself does not automatically provide breeding eligibility.
What is the difference between a puppy certificate and a pedigree?
Within ZKwP, you receive the puppy certificate from the breeder with a puppy from a documented litter. You can then use it to apply for a pedigree. The pedigree contains a more extensive record of the dog’s genealogy and is the full pedigree document.
Is a puppy certificate the same as a pedigree?
No. A puppy certificate and a pedigree are two different documents. Within the ZKwP system, the puppy certificate forms the basis for later obtaining a pedigree.
How do you obtain a dog pedigree?
To obtain a ZKwP pedigree, you need to visit any local ZKwP branch with the puppy certificate issued by the organisation and the contract of sale. ZKwP membership and payment of the relevant fees are also required [1].
How much does a dog pedigree cost?
According to ZKwP information current in October 2026, a standard national pedigree costs PLN 100, whilst the express procedure costs PLN 400. Additional membership or branch registration charges may apply [1].
How long does it take to receive a dog pedigree?
ZKwP currently states that the standard processing time for a national pedigree is 30 working days. The express procedure takes 5 working days. The period is calculated from the point at which the relevant documentation reaches the ZKwP Head Office [1].
What does a dog pedigree look like?
The current ZKwP pedigree is a double-sided document containing a hologram and QR code. It includes information identifying the dog as well as details of their ancestry and ancestors. The new format has been in use since August 2023 [6].
How do you check a dog’s pedigree?
First check the organisation that issued the document, the dog’s details and their microchip number. In the case of ZKwP, you can use the organisation’s official microchip database and contact the relevant ZKwP branch directly if you have any doubts [5].
How can you check whether a dog pedigree is genuine?
Do not assess the document solely by its appearance. Compare the microchip number, the dog’s details, the breeder’s name and the organisation issuing the document. If a breeder claims that the documentation belongs to the FCI system in Poland, remember that the full FCI member representing Poland is ZKwP [3].
Can a dog obtain a pedigree without a puppy certificate?
Under the standard ZKwP procedure, a national pedigree is issued on the basis of the puppy certificate. There are, however, special procedures involving the Preliminary Register for selected Polish breeds, so saying that this is never possible would be too categorical [1][2].
Does every purebred dog have a pedigree?
Within the ZKwP system, documented multi-generational ancestry is one of the elements used to define a pedigree dog. Simply looking like a particular breed is not enough to confirm a dog’s genealogy [2].
Does a pedigree guarantee a dog’s health?
No. A pedigree primarily confirms ancestry. It does not guarantee freedom from all genetic diseases or that a particular dog will never become ill. This is why it is also important to check health tests appropriate for the breed when choosing a breeder.
Is a dog with a pedigree automatically a breeding dog?
No. Within ZKwP, breeding qualification is a separate process. A dog or bitch receives breeding eligibility only after meeting the relevant requirements and receiving the appropriate entry in their pedigree [2].
What is the difference between ZKwP and FCI?
ZKwP, the Związek Kynologiczny w Polsce, is a Polish canine organisation. FCI, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale – International Canine Federation – is an international organisation. ZKwP is the full FCI member representing Poland [3].
Is every legally issued pedigree in Poland an FCI pedigree?
No. Other organisations bringing together breeders also operate in Poland and may issue their own documentation. This does not automatically mean that such a document is recognised within the FCI system. In Poland, the full FCI member is ZKwP [3][4].
Can you change the name of a pedigree dog?
You can use any everyday name you wish for your dog. The official registered name together with the kennel name remains part of their documentation. All puppies born in one ZKwP litter are given official names beginning with the same letter [2].
Can a pedigree dog be adopted?
Yes. Pedigree dogs can also lose their previous home or need a new guardian. They may end up with charities, shelters, breed-specific rescue organisations or be rehomed through their breeder.
Pedigree or non-pedigree dog – which should you choose?
There is no single answer that suits everyone. If you want a particular breed and documented ancestry, a responsibly run breeder and the correct documentation are important. If your priority is to offer a home to a dog in need, adopting a mongrel, crossbreed or dog of a particular breed type can be an equally good choice.
Is it worth buying a pedigree dog?
If documented ancestry for a particular breed matters to you, a pedigree is an important source of information. It should not, however, be the only criterion. Breeding conditions, parental health testing, socialisation and the breeder’s responsibility are equally important.
Sources and inspiration used to write the article
“Pedigree dog – what does it mean, what does a pedigree tell you and how can you verify it?”
- ZKwP – Polish Kennel Club, “Pedigrees” – official information concerning the definition of a pedigree, puppy certificates, procedures for issuing documents, processing times, current fees, export pedigrees and the Preliminary Register.
https://www.zkwp.pl/rodowody.php - ZKwP – Polish Kennel Club, “Regulations for the Breeding of Pedigree Dogs” – document used to verify the definition of a pedigree dog, breeding regulations, puppy certificates, microchip identification, kennel names, puppy naming and breeding qualifications.
https://www.zkwp.pl/regulaminy/Regulamin_Hodowli_Psow_Rasowych.pdf - Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI – International Canine Federation), “FCI Members and Contract Partners” – official source confirming the status of the Związek Kynologiczny w Polsce as the full FCI member representing Poland.
https://www.fci.be/en/members/members.aspx?section=3 - Act of 21 August 1997 on the Protection of Animals – source used to explain the legal context of registering dog breeders in Poland and the distinction between lawful operation and membership of the ZKwP/FCI system.
https://api.sejm.gov.pl/eli/acts/DU/2023/1580/text.html - ZKwP – Polish Kennel Club, “ZKwP Microchip Database” – official tool allowing basic information about a dog to be verified using their microchip number.
https://zkwp.pl/baza_chip.php - ZKwP – Polish Kennel Club, information about the new pedigree format – material concerning the double-sided document, hologram, QR code and English-language export pedigree introduced in August 2023.
https://www.zkwp.pl/aktualnosci.php?a=uzg - ZKwP – Polish Kennel Club, “Before You Buy a Dog” – guidance concerning breed choice, breeders, contracts, documentation provided with a puppy and dog registration.
https://zkwp.pl/zanim_kupisz.php
