They're adorable. Those small, sturdy dogs with their regal bearing and long, gorgeous coats. But which breed are you admiring? The Shih Tzu (pronounced “sheed-zoo" or “sheet-su") or the Lhasa Apso? To the untrained eye, it can be hard to tell these two dogs apart, especially in full coat. But in fact, although these breeds […]

When dog lovers hear the phrase “mountain dog,” their thoughts naturally turn to the big guys: Saint Bernards, Great Pyrenees, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and other large, immensely powerful breeds created to guard flocks and rescue luckless travelers amid the world’s great mountain ranges. But dogs specially bred to thrive in high altitudes come in all […]

The lavishly coated Lhasa Apso is a thousand-year-old breed who served as sentinels at palaces and monasteries isolated high in the Himalayas. Smart, confident, and complex, Lhasas are family comedians but regally aloof with strangers.

You may have seen the beautiful Lhasa Apso's stunning coat without even realizing what breed it is. Get to know them with these fun facts.

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 […]

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!

[accordion] [accordion_panel title="2024"] Below you will find recording links and resources for webinars that aired in 2024. Once you click the recording link, you will be asked to enter your name and email address in order to access the recording. Review and FAQ's on Conformation Judging Procedures, Policies and Guidelines Tuesday, January 16, 2024 View […]

Order AKC DNA + Health Kit Activate AKC DNA Kit DNA Resource Center All AKC DNA + Health Kits include: The AKC DNA Profile of 201 markers for genetic identity and parentage verification purposes 328 genetic variants for health and traits, including coat color Results are delivered by our trusted service provider (Neogen) with the […]

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 […]

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 […]