Question
We purchased a 4-year-old female English Springer Spaniel (not spayed) from a breeder in Oregon in October 2025. We had arranged a pickup time through text messages, and the breeder said she would have all the “paperwork” ready for us. When we arrived at the agreed-upon time, we paid cash and left without any paperwork (no bill of sale or AKC registration). She said to send her proof of spaying and that she would then send the AKC papers.
I was confused by this at the time, but I fell in love with the dog and dismissed my confusion about the paperwork.
I recently contacted the breeder asking for the AKC paperwork and told her that we were considering breeding the dog. The breeder then told me that the dog was sold to me without breeding rights and that she would not send the AKC paperwork unless the dog was spayed.
This information was not conveyed to us at the time of purchase, and it seems questionable to withhold the paperwork despite there being no contract with language explaining this. We had hoped to breed the dog, but her puppies will not be worth nearly as much without AKC registration.
Answer
Most importantly, I hope your dog is doing well!
It is important to review the breeder’s contract, if any, which may state (as many do) that the dog is being sold as a pet (not a show dog) and must be spayed. When there is no contract (verbal or written), rights of breeders and purchasers can be very unclear and confusing. If a lawsuit is commenced, the court will consider the terms of the contract, if any. If there is no contract, the court will consider other representations that were made (including texts and emails) and how the dog was advertised for sale, including, for example, that the dog was AKC registerable. Note that AKC has different kinds of registrations.
There are so many wonderful dogs at shelters and rescues waiting for a loving home. Breeding can contribute to the overpopulation of dogs and other animals with tragic consequences. I hope this dog gets spayed. Not only does spaying and neutering help to reduce the overpopulation of animals, it may provide health benefits.
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