Dogs sold with main registration papers (blue forms) are eligible for competition in dog shows. If bred, their offspring can be registered. All dogs on the main register must conform to the accepted colours for their particular breed.

Dogs sold with limited registration papers (orange forms) are eligible for competition in obedience, trials, and other canine disciplines. Dogs on the limited register cannot be shown and if bred, their offspring cannot be registered. Breeders usually register the puppies which are being sold as pets and companion animals on the limited register. All dogs which do not conform to the accepted colours for their particular breed must be registered on the limited register.