The AKC is proud to launch a new Public Service Dog Titling Program to honor and recognize police dogs that assist our men and women in law enforcement.  AKC now offers three titles to help identify the accomplishments of these outstanding dogs that excel in three areas - Detection, Patrol Work and Tracking.  All three […]

The videos below show dogs performing some of the retrieves for each AKC Fetch title. In AKC Fetch tests, the following retrieves are required: Novice - 3 singles Intermediate - 4 singles Advanced - 2 singles, 2 doubles Retriever - 1 triple, 2 doubles Intro Videos Novice Intermediate Advanced Retriever Novice Video #1 Video #2 […]

Standard Poodles are among the most instantly recognizable of all dog breeds. Known largely for their stylish looks, the athletic, eager, and intelligent Standard Poodle has so many more talents besides simply looking pretty. Learn more about this iconic Non-Sporting Group breed with these Standard Poodle fun facts. Standard Poodles Originated in Germany Although it […]

The Afghan Hound was a hunting dog that originated in Afghanistan. Now, they're still prey-driven, independent, but loving and sweet dogs. Learn more about the breed with these Afghan Hound fun facts.

While there was once debate over the Afghan Hound's appearance, there was universal agreement on its personality. Read more about the history of this breed.

READ THE CURRENT ISSUE As the official journal of the sport of purebred dogs, the monthly AKC Gazette hasn’t missed an issue since 1889. For those with an abiding interest in exhibiting dogs as a sport, hobby, or profession, the digital Gazette is the AKC’s premium resource—written for, and mostly by, the American dog fancy. […]

The Xoloitzcuintli has long been associated with death in Aztec Society, most recently depicted in the Pixar movie "Coco." Here's the Xolo's breed history.

After an action-packed weekend, the 2024 Masters Agility Championship at Westminster, a winner has been crowned.

Dry skin on dogs is frustrating for dogs and owners alike. If dry, itchy, or flaky skin is making your dog uncomfortable, here is what you need to know.

Good news for Florida pet owners! A bill that, among other provisions, reenacts state sales tax holidays on certain disaster preparation supplies was signed by the Governor as Chapter 2024-158. This year’s sales tax holiday dates are June 1-June 14 and August 24-September 6. The American Kennel Club and the Florida Association of Kennel Clubs […]

Last week, a San Antonio City Councilmember requested an ordinance intended to address at-large and dangerous dog issues in the city.  However, the request includes concerning provisions requesting the city adopt practices requiring the spaying/neutering of at-large animals even if the owner is identified. The AKC understands the City’s desire to address dangerous dog and […]

The American Kennel Club (AKC®), a not-for-profit organization, the world’s largest purebred dog registry and leading advocate for dogs, is thrilled to announce that Melanie King has been hired as an Executive Field Representative. She will start on May 20th, 2024. “Melanie has longtime experience with Irish Wolfhounds and Whippets. She is a successful Breeder-Owner-Handler […]

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 […]

[accordion] [accordion_panel title="News"] AKC Educational Requirements Policy and Recommendations Precautions Regarding Canine Upper Respiratory Illness Danish-Swedish Farm Dog to the Working Group January 1, 2025 [/accordion_panel] [/accordion] [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Rules, Policies & Procedures"] Judging Approval Process - effective January 1, 2018, amended effective January 17, 2024  FAQ's on the Judging Approval Process (PDF) Rules Policies […]

In today’s edition of the Federal Register, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published its newly finalized rule on the importation of dogs.  The 123-page rule, which will become effective on August 1, 2024, is available at https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2024-05-13/pdf/2024-09676.pdf. Last week, AKC published this post that alerted dog owners with a summary of […]

The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, presented by Purina® Pro Plan® has crowned hundreds of Best in Show winners in its history. Though any breed can win the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, some breeds have taken home the Best in Show ribbon more than others. But breeds don't win based on popularity: some of the […]

What are the common causes of dog limping, and when should you take your limping dog to the vet? Learn what to look for and what to do.

The temptation to reach into our medicine cabinets to treat our pets can be dangerous. Humans and dogs react very differently to medications, which is why veterinarians caution dog owners against making independent decisions about how to medicate their animals. However, some human medications are safe for use with dogs, as long as they are […]

If a dog passes the ATT on two occasions, under two different evaluators, the owner may apply for the AKC Temperament Test (ATT) suffix title.  The ATT Title Application along with the passing Evaluator Score Sheets from two different tests and the required title application fee must be submitted to AKC.  Upon verification, the ATT […]

  Conformation Dog Shows General Conformation issues: eventplans@akc.org Conformation Judges: judgingops@akc.org 4-6 Month Beginner Puppy: eventnews@akc.org; (919) 816-3579 (AKC Events Department) Junior Showmanship: juniors@akc.org Owner Handler Series: eventnews@akc.org; (919) 816-3579 (AKC Events Department) Companion Events General Companion Events: (919) 816-3575 Agility: agility@akc.org; (919) 816-3575 Obedience: obedience@akc.org; (919) 816-3575 AKC Rally: rally@akc.org; (919) 816-3575 Tracking: tracking@akc.org; (919) 816-3575 Performance Events General Performance Events: (919) 816-3908; performanceevents@akc.org […]

Border Collie 'Zayne' Wins 2024 Westminster Masters Obedience Championship. Part of Westminster Week, this is the 9th annual competition.

(Originally edited and written by A. Hamilton Rowan, Jr.; updated by M. Sue Richey from material submitted by Evelyn Monte Van Horn and Lisa Brown as cited in the Poughkeepsie Journal.) American sportsmen used Spaniels for hunting game birds and waterfowl long before there were Spaniel field trials. The Cocker Spaniel, recognized by The Kennel […]

Virtual monthly webinar learning experiences created by breeders for breeders. Join renowned experts in these educational opportunities for breeders! 2024 Schedule Tuesday, May 21th, 2024 6:00pm – 7:00pm (EST) - Dr. Claire Wiley, VMD, DACVIM “AKC DNA + Health Kit” Sign up here https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/6410663401800794971 at no cost to join the May 21, 2024 webinar with […]

Platelet-rich plasma therapy (PRP) can help ease the discomfort of arthritis and promotes wound healing. Learn when PRP might be worth trying for your dog.

Six breeds: the American English Coonhound, Black and Tan Coonhound, Bluetick Coonhound, Plott Hound, Redbone Coonhound, and the Treeing Walker...

Today, the Vermont House of Representatives agreed to minor H. 626 changes made by the Senate Committee on Government Operations, sending the bill to the Governor’s desk for consideration. With strong support of the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Vermont Federation of Dog Clubs (VT Federation), and others, amended H. 626 would: Establish a Division […]

The Connecticut General Assembly adjourned the 2024 session late in the night on May 8. Two bills supported by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Connecticut Federation of Dog Clubs and Responsible Dog Owners (CFDRDO) have passed both chambers and are their way to the Governor. SB 339 requires restitution by anyone that injures […]

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="AKC Educational Requirements Policy and Recommendations (April 2024 Board meeting)"] As an additional step in creating a safe and respectful sport environment for all, the AKC Board of Directors approved the following educational requirements policy and recommendations.  Effective immediately: AKC Board of Directors, Inspectors, Field Staff across all sports, AKC Registered Handlers, […]

While seizure disorders can benefit from diazepam (Valium) for dogs, there are other treatment options available. Talk to your veterinarian.