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.

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.

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 […]

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 […]

  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 […]

Want to download some of these applications? Please go to our Downloadable Forms page. Application fees are generally not refundable. Any potential refunds to be paid are subject to a processing fee. INDIVIDUAL DOG REGISTRATION - PAPER BASIC REGISTRATION ONLY (INCLUDES PAPER APPLICATION FEE) $39.99 BASIC REGISTRATION + PEDIGREE $64.99 BASIC REGISTRATION + EXPORT PEDIGREE […]

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 […]

Like a case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, the leash-aggressive dog is calm, cool, and downright polite when walking among people or around dogs off-leash. But hook on a leash, and he lunges, barks, and snaps at the sight of another dog. Has this scenario reduced you to mapping out walks where you know […]

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. […]

Puppies have a critical socialization period that starts around three weeks and goes up to between 12 and 14 weeks. Studies show that a lack of positive interactions during this time can lead to problem behaviors and fearfulness in adult dogs. Allowing your puppy to play with other dogs is a crucial element of proper […]

We've all fallen for the sad gaze from our dog. But, if your dog's eyes are tearing or you see traces of fluid, something else could be going on.

Getting a puppy is a big decision that shouldn't be taken lightly. Have this list of questions handy to get to know your breeder and your potential puppy.

The Icelandic Sheepdog is as old as Iceland itself. The ancestors of these Nordic spitz dogs arrived on the island with its first human inhabitants in the late 800s, and were used to herd and guard sheep, horses, and cattle. Today, these small-to-mid-sized working dogs make loyal, loving family pets.

Traveling on the subway with your pup? Here's how to prepare your dog for a safe ride and where to look for public transit rules and regulations.

If you're the owner of an energetic or hyper dog, here are some tips to help calm them down and get to the root of the hyperactive behavior.

AKC Education consists of AKC Canine College, AKC Public Education, AKC Education Webinars, and Library and Archives. Each area plays an important role in achieving the mission and vision of AKC Education and in supporting the mission of American Kennel Club.   AKC Canine College is dedicated to creating quality online courses for judges, groomers, […]

Here you can access a list of AKC Government Relations resources available to help you be effective advocates for responsible dog ownership and breeding! Be sure to check back often, as we are continuously adding new items.  If you have any questions about these materials, or are dealing with a canine legislation issue, please contact […]

Which breeds make the best family dogs? What are the best dog breeds for kids? We've compiled some of the best dog breeds for families and kids.