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 […]

Over the centuries, Mastiffs have maintained a reputation for their irrepressible protective streak. Learn more about the history of this dignified breed.

Poodles have been labeled as "elitist" and "overly glamorous" by many who don't understand the breed. Here's the history of the poodle haircut.

Known for its distinctive white, corded coat, the Komondor has a history that goes back to 1500s Hungary. Learn more about this breed's creation.

Barbet Learn about Barbets [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Rescue Organizations"] Barbet Club of America Ellen Rich, (248) 978-2715, eredavi@aol.com [/accordion_panel] [/accordion] Basenji Learn about Basenjis [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Rescue Organizations"] Basenji Club of America Joe Carlson, 954-815-2143, ernursero@aol.com Basenji Rescue & Transport, Inc. [/accordion_panel] [/accordion] Basset Hound Learn about Basset Hounds [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Rescue Organizations"] Basset Hound Club of America, […]

(updated 5/16/24) 5/09/24 From the May Board Meeting - One new breed was added to the Foundation Stock Service Program – Blue Picardy Spaniel. 4/18/24 From the April Board Meeting - One new breed was added to the Foundation Stock Service Program – Bouvier des Ardennes. 2/12/24 The Presa Canario Club of America will serve […]

Allowing your puppy to play with other dogs is crucial to socialization, but it must be managed properly. Here's how to provide safe puppy play sessions

The AKC Outstanding Sportsmanship Award Program was established in 2006 to provide each AKC Member Club with an embossed AKC medallion to award on a yearly basis as an ongoing effort to celebrate its volunteer club members. This award honors those individuals who deserve special recognition that have made a difference in the Sport of […]

In December 2021, a Giant Schnauzer named Bayou made breed history by being the first to win the AKC National Championship. But even in the ring, Bayou’s instincts came through. The dog's handler, Alfonso Escobedo, took note of the dog's behavior. The giant canine kept his eyes on the same location in the ring, to […]

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.

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 […]

You've got your passport ready, hotel booked, and bags ready. Now, there's just one thing left to do: find a kennel where your dog can have a vacation of their own while you're away. Choosing a trustworthy kennel is a multi-faceted process. It's more than typing "dog boarding near me" and seeing what comes up. […]

Did you know that the Cocker Spaniel and English Cocker Spaniel are two different breeds? Learn more about the breed with these Cocker Spaniel fun facts.

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 […]

[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 […]

Like humans, dogs lose water and electrolytes through sweat, urination, vomiting, and diarrhea. Out of the options to rehydrate, is Pedialyte good for dogs?

From the Anatolian Shepherd Dog to the Tibetan Mastiff and all the giant breeds in between, these big dogs are some of the kindest and most hardworking dogs out there. From companions lounging on couches to working alongside people, giant dogs excel at a variety of jobs and sports. But not every home, family, or […]

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.

If civilization is the intersection of a group of people with their environment, so too are their dogs. Learn about the history behind the Bullmastiff.

The AKC Archives is arranged into four major groups: Clubs, including AKC Member Clubs and Parent Clubs People AKC Administrative Visual Materials In addition to the library book and periodical collection, there is also an assortment of photographs, pamphlets, clippings, pedigrees, and more in the Library & Archives vertical files. Contact the Archivist for further information on undescribed […]

How long can you keep your dog outside? Here we explore just how to determine when it's time to call your dog back inside after a day of outdoor fun.

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!

Cane Corso history starts with this hardy breed's origins in ancient Italy. It extends to near-extinction in the modern era to its revival.

A sweet, calm nature, and a soft expression with distinctive markings on the coat and face, contribute to the majestic Bernese Mountain Dog's popularity. But this breed is also a hardworking farm dog, dating back in carting and drafting thousands of years.

Dehydration in dogs occurs when the body loses more fluid than it's taking in. All mammals rely on water to keep their bodies functioning properly, and dogs are no exception. In fact, water is necessary for virtually every important body function, including lubricating joints, cushioning internal organs, aiding digestion, and regulating body temperature. When we […]

When wildfires ravage an area, both humans and pets are at risk of being displaced and inhaling dangerous amounts of smoke. Remember — if you feel the effects of smoke, your pets probably do, too. And if you ever have to evacuate your home, your pets should always go with you. If you're in an […]

Giant dogs are some of the hardest-working and most recognizable breeds. But because many of them maintain the strong working instincts and drive they were bred for, they can be a lot to handle. Here are some things to keep in mind if you're considering adding one to your family. Maturation Giant dogs are giant […]

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