About .pet domain
.pet is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) that was delegated to the root zone in July 2015. The registry operator for this extension is Afilias. It was introduced through ICANN's New gTLD Program, with its application succeeding after a private auction resolved a contention set involving similar strings. This TLD is positioned as a dedicated namespace for registrations related to the pet industry and animal care.
Who can register .pet domain
Registration for .pet domains is open to the general public with no restrictions based on geography, organization type, or trademark ownership. Anyone can register a .pet domain name through an accredited registrar. There are no special verification processes or documentation requirements for eligibility.
How to register .pet domain
- Search for your desired .pet domain name using a registrar's search tool to check its availability.
- Compare pricing, registration term lengths, and add-on services like WHOIS privacy from different registrars before selecting one.
- Complete the checkout process, providing accurate registrant contact information and selecting your desired registration period.
- After purchase, verify your contact details via email and configure your domain's DNS settings to point to your website or email service.
Typical uses of .pet domain
The .pet extension is commonly used by businesses, organizations, and individuals within the pet industry. Veterinarians, pet stores, groomers, trainers, and animal welfare groups often choose .pet to create memorable, topic-specific web addresses. Pet bloggers, pet service providers, and product brands also use this TLD to immediately communicate their site's focus on animals, helping them stand out from more generic extensions.
Tips for registering .pet domain
- Domains can typically be registered for a minimum of one year, with options to register for multiple years upfront.
- WHOIS privacy protection is generally available for .pet domains through most registrars, allowing you to shield personal contact details from the public WHOIS database.
- Be aware of potential premium pricing for certain desirable or dictionary-word .pet domain names, as the registry may classify them as premium and charge higher fees.
- Standard ICANN transfer policies apply, but it's advisable to check with your specific registrar for any transfer lock periods that may apply immediately after registration.
Frequently asked questions about .pet domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .pet domain?
As of today, .pet domains start from $6.41/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $51.48/yr across 33 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .pet domains?
NameBeta tracks 33 registrars that support .pet domain registration, with the cheapest option at $6.41/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .pet domain?
The registry for .pet domains is Identity Digital, administered by Identity Digital Limited.
Who can register a .pet domain?
Registration is unrestricted and open globally. Individuals, businesses, non-profits, and any other entity can register a .pet domain without needing to prove a connection to the pet industry. The process is as straightforward as registering any other open gTLD, requiring only standard registrant contact information at checkout.
Can I transfer a .pet domain between registrars?
Transferring a .pet domain between registrars follows the standard ICANN inter-registrar transfer policy. You will need to obtain an authorization code (EPP code) from your current registrar and ensure the domain is unlocked and not within a 60-day transfer lock period following a recent registration or previous transfer. The process typically completes within 5-7 days after initiation.
Are there any content restrictions for .pet websites?
The .pet registry does not enforce specific content policies mandating that websites must be about pets. Registrants are free to use their .pet domains for any lawful purpose, similar to other open gTLDs. However, all registrations are subject to ICANN's mandatory rights protection mechanisms, which help address trademark infringement.
What dispute resolution policies apply to .pet domains?
.pet domains are subject to the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) for resolving trademark-based conflicts. Additionally, as a new gTLD, they fall under the Uniform Rapid Suspension (URS) system, which provides a faster, lower-cost option for clear-cut cases of trademark abuse. Registry-specific rights protection mechanisms were also active during its launch phase.
Can I register a .pet domain for a long period?
Yes, you can typically register a .pet domain for up to 10 years in advance, which is the standard maximum term for most gTLDs. Registering for multiple years can help secure your domain name and may sometimes offer pricing advantages compared to annual renewals, though this depends on the registrar's offers.
