At AKC shows, dogs are organized into 7 groups: Hound, Working, Sporting, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, and Herding. Learn about what makes each group unique.

These policies have been adopted by the AKC Board of Directors, although they have not yet been incorporated into an official publication. This reference will be updated as policies are adopted, revised and published. [accordion] [accordion_panel title="AKC Board Administration Policies"] AKC Charter and Bylaws Article XII Complaints (August 2016 Board meeting) AKC Educational Requirements Policy and Recommendations […]

[accordion] [accordion_panel title="American Field Irish Setters (October 1975 Board meeting)"]  Based upon a request from the Irish Setter Club of America, AKC discontinued the registration of Irish Setters based upon pedigrees from the American Field Dog Stud Book. [/accordion_panel] [accordion_panel title="Auction Policy (July 2003 Board meeting)"]  The Board reviewed its policy on Auctions, considering the […]

The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) is pleased to announce the judging panel for the 2024 AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin to be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida on Saturday, December 14 and Sunday, December 15, 2024. The 2024 event will showcase the top canine athletes and will also […]

In our award-winning Down and Back: Stories From the American Kennel Club Archives dog podcast, now in Season Four, host Bud Boccone tells the tales of breeds, dogs, and personalities who’ve shaped America (and Americans) over generations. Using the American Kennel Club's historical records, archival material, oral histories, interviews, and more, the show brings dog […]

Purebred dogs are symbols of the people and places that brought them into being. Every year, they're celebrated on National Purebred Dog Day.

Don't shave your dog, as it might make them hotter in summer and creates health risks. Instead, try these grooming and safety tips to keep them cool.

Test for what is recommended for your breed, not everything available. Order AKC DNA + Health Kit The AKC DNA Program recommends that breeders perform DNA tests that are relevant to their breed. Although the AKC DNA + Health Kit includes over 328 markers for health and traits, not all genetic variants have been validated […]

To view other Pee Wee photos click here. If you have a Pee Wee photo you would like to share, please send to: juniors@akc.org [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Procedures and Guidelines"] A Club must submit a Special Attractions Form to conduct the Pee Wee Class Special Attraction. The request must be approved by the Event Operations department. The […]

It's estimated that 5-10% of dogs in the United States are deaf. Why does deafness in dogs occur, and how is it different from hearing loss?

Season 6 - Winter 2024 [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Extended Ph.D."] Winter Season Finals – Extended Ph.D. – Teams & Dogs Congratulations to all teams & dogs that completed the Winter Season! Great job! Here are the top placers for Season 6: Top Teams Champion – Happy Dog Sports Team 1 – Texas Reserve Champion – New […]

AKC Group Standards Download AKC approved breed standards by complete group for use on any portable electronic device. Sporting Hound Working Terrier Toy Non-Sporting Herding Misc. Judges Study Guide No single written guide is ever comprehensive enough to be the only learning tool utilized in preparation for judging a new breed. We urge you to […]

One of a dog owner's worst nightmares is having their dog run away, yet it's an all too common and dangerous scenario. So how do you prevent it?

The regal Chow Chow has a fascinating history and many unique features. But did you know that they have blue-black tongues? Read on to learn more about this breed.

Based on American Kennel Club registration statistics, we rank the most popular dog breeds in America each year. The French Bulldog takes the No. 1 spot!

Distinctively spotted dogs have been documented across cultures and continents. Here are some facts about the history of the Dalmatian.

Summertime is perfect for outdoor fun. And it's even better if your dog can join in. There are oodles of activities to try, from old standbys like fetch to more adventurous pursuits like hitting the trail for a hike. Consider your dog's personality, activity level, and interests to be certain you find the perfect match. If you're looking […]

From haunted hounds to laboratory creations, these are the top dogs in horror movies to watch this Halloween.

Although a celebratory day for humans, the July 4th holiday can be dangerous for your dogs’ health and happiness. The American Veterinary Medical Association warns that fireworks, picnics, cookouts, and other Fourth of July traditions can be frightening and even dangerous for pets. Up to half of dogs react fearfully to fireworks, according to owner […]

What's better than coming home to a kiss from a happy dog? Most dog owners interpret the reason why dogs lick their owners as a sign of affection. But is this really why your dog is licking you? And what can you do if your dog's licking behavior is out of control? Is Licking a […]

Forget what you think you know about winter dog sports. You don't need to own a team of sled dogs to enjoy dogsledding's simpler offshoot: skijoring.

Bred from the Bulldog, terrier, and more, the public was fascinated with the Bull Terrier, a good-natured dog that wasn’t spoiling for a fight.

Humans often take precautions to protect themselves from the sun, but should we be doing the same for our dogs? Can dogs get sunburned, and do dogs need sunscreen? The answer is yes. Just like people, dogs are prone to sunburn and other complications and diseases associated with sun exposure. Taking certain safety measures can […]

Board of Directors [caption id="attachment_100992" align="alignleft" width="229"] Dr. Thomas M. Davies, Chairman[/caption] [caption id="attachment_166072" align="aligncenter" width="229"] Dominic P. Carota, Vice Chairman[/caption] Class of 2025 Rita J. Biddle, Esq, Delegate, Ingham County Kennel Club, Inc. Dominic Palleschi Carota, Delegate, Pharaoh Hound Club of America Dr. Thomas M. Davies, Delegate, Springfield Kennel Club, Inc. Thomas Powers, Delegate, […]

You may have heard of using the medication Prozac (Fluoxetine) for depression and anxiety in humans. Here are the drug's uses and side effects in dogs.

The AKC currently registers 200 dog breeds. The chart below lists all AKC recognized breeds and the year they first became registrable with the AKC.  DATE – BREED 1878 – Pointer  1878 – Retriever (Chesapeake Bay)  1878 – Spaniel (Clumber)  1878 – Spaniel (Cocker)  1878 – Setter (English)  1878 – Setter (Gordon)  1878 – Setter […]

The American Kennel Club (AKC®) is pleased to recognize its affiliated dog clubs which have been holding AKC events for over 100 years and are an essential part of the sport of dogs. Airedale Terrier Club of America Japanese Chin Club of America Airedale Terrier Club of New England Kennel Club of Buffalo American Chesapeake […]

The shaggy Old English Sheepdog is a lovable pet, but they're also a hard worker and smart companion. Here are some facts you may not know about the breed.

What are the best dogs for running or jogging partners? We run down dogs with endurance, build, athleticism, and temperament for running.

A combination of breed and socialization will help determine how your dog will behave. Here's why breed matters when selecting a pet.