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 […]

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 […]

Thousands of dogs compete at the Westminster Kennel Club Best in Show. Check out some statistics on the breeds and groups who've taken the trophy.

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 […]

Virtual monthly webinar learning experiences created by breeders for breeders. Join renowned experts in these educational opportunities for breeders! 2024 Schedule Tuesday, May 7, 2024 7:00 pm (EST) - Dr. Heidi Kellihan "Analyzing the Heartbeat" Join Dr. Heidi Kellihan for a break down on OFA Cardiac Examinations done on your breeding stock. She will share cardiac […]

The Japanese Chin actually originated in China. Learn more Japanese Chin fun facts to learn about this breed's history and more.

Some of the fastest dogs in the country dashed after the coveted "bunny" lure in a 100-yard Fast CAT dash at Fastest Dogs USA, held on May 19 in Rock...

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 […]

[accordion] [accordion_panel title="News"] 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 and Guidelines for Conformation Dog Show […]

Fastest Dogs USA is back to determine who's got the most speed! The competition will air on April 14 at 7 p.m. on ESPN2, and you can watch all the action for this exciting 100-yard dash.

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 […]

Since Ancient China, Pekingese have long been revered, even believed by some to be shrunken-down lions. Today, they still retain some leonine qualities.

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!

Ever wonder if you can go from watching dog shows on TV to competing at big shows yourself? Well that's exactly what Junior Handler Ashlyn Navis did.

It's normal for puppies to lose their primary teeth. For an adult dog, a loose or wiggly tooth can be the result of an injury or a sign of dental...

Pugs won us over with their adorable faces, loyalty, and easy-going nature. But where did those qualities come from? Learn more with these Pug fun facts.

It's easy (and dangerous) for dogs to become overheated. Here's how to recognize signs of overheated dogs, how to prevent overheating, and what to do if you think you have an overheated dog.

Some people lament the end of summer, holding on to the lingering warmth as much as they can, while others celebrate the arrival of cooler weather. Whatever your stance is, once autumn arrives, it's time to tend to your dog's post-summer grooming needs—from heat-damaged paw pads to insect-bitten skin and sun-bleached fur. Check off these […]

Puppy vaccinations can help prevent your new pet from getting very sick. Learn about some of the diseases that puppy vaccinations may help your dog avoid.

Competition/Titles Update Fall 2021 We have some big news to report about All-Americans succeeding at earning the top titles and honors in Agility, Coursing Ability, Fast CAT Rally, Obedience, Scent Work, Tracking, and Trick Dog. Many dogs are also having success in AKC’s Virtual Titling programs! AGILITY Agility Grand Champion (AGCH) AGCH MACH3 Day's Katie […]

We've all been there. Our dogs eat something that they are not supposed to — a human medication, your other dog's medication, or a toxic food such as chocolate or raisins — and our first thought is, "how do I make my dog throw up?" Vomiting can be a quick way to remove a potentially […]

Did you know these facts about the Shih Tzu dog breed? Learn more about this Asian breed that makes an excellent companion from the AKC Toy Group.

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 […]

Warmer weather typically means spending more time outdoors with your dog. These grooming tips will help keep your dog feeling cool and comfortable. As a bonus, they will also enhance the relationship you have with your pet. “Grooming is one of nature’s strongest ways of bonding,” says Jorge Bendersky, a certified master groomer and best-selling author. […]

Toy dogs are more than just small. Learn more about each of the Toy Group breeds and find out what exactly these adorable dogs were bred to do.

From Washington's Foxhounds to Obama's famous Portuguese Water Dogs, presidential dogs are as traditional as baseball and apple pie. Almost all of our presidents have shared the White House with a dog, and often more than one. These presidential dogs became as much a staple of the capitol as the rest of the First Family […]

Can dogs be albino? Yes, and certain breeds are more prone to the gene than others. Read about albino dog history, and what to do to keep them healthy.

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, […]

Leila the Pekingese may not be the most speedy dog competing in 2024 AKC Fastest Dogs USA, but she's defying the odds racing with her limited vision.