Registration number and microchip: different identifiers

Keep separate fields

Dogs Australia registration material distinguishes pedigree administration and dog identification. In a dataset, store the registry authority and number separately from the chip reference. Do not strip leading zeros, reinterpret letters or assume that two numbers with similar length represent the same kind of identifier. A bare number without its issuer is easy to misuse.

A matching example

A result sheet may contain an association registration number but no chip information. A later document may include both. That can support a checked relationship, but the missing field should remain absent in the original result. Do not invent a chip number, infer one from registration digits or publish unnecessary identification data simply to make the profile look complete.

Privacy and verification

A public sporting history usually needs enough identification to distinguish the dog, not private ownership records or contact details. Use the registry’s permitted verification route and involve the appropriate professional where a physical chip scan is needed. If the identifiers disagree, retain the discrepancy for review instead of forcing the records together and losing the evidence.

Sources & further reading

References for this guide. Rules and services can change; check the responsible organisation for current details.

• Dogs Australia — registration regulations (opens in a new tab)

Keep exploring