KCI / Non-KCI Puppy Checklist: 12 Questions Before You Pay

Searching for a puppy often comes down to two words: KCI and non-KCI. Whether you care deeply about registry pathways or you are flexible, you can use this checklist to verify what actually matters: health evidence, humane raising, and clear accountability.

The 12 questions (say them in plain language)

1. Which registry/documentation pathway is this through (KCI or not)?
2. Can you share written proof of lineage/parent identity that your documentation relies on?
3. Can I see vaccination and deworming records for this litter (with dates)?
4. What is the exact post-pickup care plan for the next 2 to 4 weeks?
5. Have the parent dogs had relevant veterinary checks for the risks common in their breed/context?
6. What health information do you provide proactively (and what do you do if something is not right)?
7. Where are the puppies raised, and how are they socialised in the first weeks (people, sounds, handling)?
8. Can you explain how you minimise fear and stress (especially for Indian city life)?
9. Do you provide written support terms (returns, guidance, and what happens if the match fails)?
10. If this is non-KCI, why is it documented that way, and what additional documentation can you provide instead?
11. Can I meet the mother/parents (or see them via a clear, verifiable process)?
12. If I ask a vet for follow-up guidance, will you help provide accurate background information?

How to verify answers (without getting overwhelmed)

Use "show me" rules:

• Show me records: dates, vaccine/deworming details, and written care notes.
• Show me the environment: where puppies are raised and how they are handled.
• Show me consistency: documentation should match what the seller says, not just one-off screenshots.

If you cannot get clear written answers, treat that as a serious warning sign.

Price question: KCI vs non-KCI should not be the only story

Registration can influence paperwork steps and administration, which may influence price. But a higher price is not the same as better welfare.

Ask for a simple breakdown:

• What costs are included in your terms?
• What is the health verification you are backing with documents?
• What support is included after pickup?

Red flags to watch for

• Pressure to pay immediately.
• No written documents or refusal to explain documentation clearly.
• Vague answers about where puppies are raised.
• "Trust me" claims without evidence you can check with a vet.

Next steps

If you want to compare how this plays out for different families, start with:

• KCI vs Non-KCI Breeds: What Indian Families Should Understand
• our ethical breeding commitment
• browse breeds to match temperament and care needs before you contact sources