[MadDeDo]

I don't think I saw this mentioned but it IS possible for someone to see the full registration code on an AKC application even if you black it out. Most breeders tend to use a Sharpie but if you hold it up to the light at a certain angle, you can still read that number if the breeder didn't thoroughly color over the numbers. If the person registers online they can still use that code. I do one of three things on mine. I either use three different colors of ink pen and color horizontally, vertically, and diagonally over the number, then hold it up to the light to make sure it's unreadable. I have also occasionally cut out the box on the application completely with scissors. I have also been known to hold the AKC papers until I have a letter from the buyer's vet AND the bill from their spay/neuter by 1 year of age. There is a fourth option, you can request through AKC that all your litter applications come to you without the online registration option. Therefore there is no full registration number...just a blank box and if it's filled in the puppy is to be limited. Since the person has to mail it into AKC they cannot alter it or else AKC will not register the pup. All but a couple of my pups that went to good friends of mine and are closely monitored have gone on limited, and I have a spay/neuter contract as well. I think ultimately it's about screening your buyers and choosing the best home for your puppies. You have a bad or unsure feeling about someone, don't sell to them. Check a vet reference, get to know your buyers and stay in contact, make sure they are fully aware that the puppy is to be a pet ONLY, etc. All that being said you could of course come across a slick person and be fooled. Therefore, the only 100% method is to spay/neuter before the puppy leaves you.