The North American Cockapoo Registry is just that - a registry (that is, database) of cockapoo heritage information. Being a registered cockapoo means that the dog's lineage (and if done, testing for genetically carried health problems) has been entered into the database. This allows two things - first of all, it will prove in case of discrepancy that the dog is indeed a cockapoo by definition, since the dog's parents (be they cockpoos in case of second-plus generations) or cocker spaniel and poodle in that of first generation) are part of the dog's registration information, and also preserves the lineage of the animal.
Second, it supports the breeding program of cockapoos - breeders that participate have registered their breeding stock and litters along with appropriate provable pure background information in the case of the cockers and poodles, and NACR information in the case of second-plus generation cockapoos, as well as litters as they are born, in order to defend, preserve and protect the integrity of the cockapoo breed. Only if this information is recorded for proof later on can the breed be substantiated and stand in its full respect.
Registration proves that the dog does not have bloodlines from other breeds, and ideally that within the breed it does not carry bloodlines from ancestors that were afflicted with genetically carried health problems. As the registry grows and this data increases, one will be able in the future when considering the purchase of a puppy to know the background and genetic health (which however is limited to passing on traits - it is NOT a guarantee of no illness in this or any creature). There is no way to create a perfect animal, but a registry allows us to aid in achieving the best within the reach, by selective breeding from healthy, hearty stock.
The NACR is not a licensing or otherwise regulatory agency for breeders and breeding programs. It does not give approval or disapproval ratings on breeders, kennels or any other aspect of breeding dogs. These requirements are best left up to the agencies equipped to so - federal, state and local laws and humane policies, and local business regulations where the breeder resides and does business. The NACR does not solicit nor collect nor report on assessments of breeders, and will not offer them if asked. Information that is submitted to the NACR in the process of registrations are held in confidence as privileged information, other than that which is immediately applicable to the dog in question, and that is released only to breeder, owner or prospective owner for verification purposes.
The NACR will not aid in action against a breeder. It is the NACR's recommendation to prospective owners to do adequate research prior to purchasing a puppy- such as visiting and inspecting the kennel, talking with the breeder, asking for personal references from previous puppy buyers, and speaking with the breeder's vet if you care to - a reputable breeder should not have any misgivings on any of these. Should you find that you have debate with a breeder over a purchase, your best recourse is first with the breeder, and then if not reconciled then your local humane society, better business bureau, personal legal counsel or small claims court.
NACR breeders are
encouraged to have solid written sales contracts and health warranties
in place prior to sale of puppies that stipulate both breeder and
owner's rights and recourse in
the
event of an unfortunate situation.
Please note that the NACR
does not accept for participation in the registry such breeders that
sell to pet shops or other wholesale outlets. Breeders holding a USDA
license for re-sale may be considered via primafacia evidence of such
activity unless such a breeder can and does submit reasonable proof
that such a license is held for other reasons. USDA license holders are
matters of public record and the NACR does cross check for such
licensees.