Probably sounds like a few really stupid questions..

Alethea

But can non-purebred dogs compete in agility and the like?

Would they need to be registered?

What IS a registered dog? Do they have to be purebred to be registered?

fawkese1

i don't participate in agility sports or anything, but i *think* i can answer your questions... i believe the answer to this first one is yes they can, but i don't know if there are some competitions or clubs that would restrict them...
a dog has to be purebred to be registered with a kennel club.

Criosphynx

yup Can't do formal AKC obedience tho I believe
You'd register for the actual event, if its an exclusive event, you may need your dog to be registered with the kennel club

depends who you are registering with!

Mikey

since you asked, 'the like' -they can also compete in flyball-one of the only professional organizations to allow non purebreds, and FIXED dogs to compete at registered events North American Flyball Association | NAFA Home

kmes

Mixed breed dogs can now compete in some AKC events like Agility, Rally and obedience if the dog is enrolled in the AKC Canine Partner Program. However, you would have to specifically search for events allowing mixed breed dogs to compete. From my understanding, the different clubs sponsoring each AKC event are allowed to decide whether or not they will open the event to Canine Partner Program dogs.
Also, if I remember correctly, inorder to enroll your dog it must be spayed/neutered.
This is the link to the AKC Canine Partner Program.
AKC Canine Partners. AKC program for Canine Partners.

You can also sign your dog up so that you can compete in NADAC (North American Dog Agility Council) events. All dogs (mixed or purebred) are able to compete.
Here is their site.
North American Dog Agility Council, Inc. (NADAC)

Alethea

Thanks for your answers.