Understanding the genetic modes of inheritance is vital for dog breeders, as it helps them predict the likelihood of traits or genetic disorders appearing in offspring. This article provides simplified explanations of different modes of inheritance, which will be expanded on in coming articles.   Genetic Building Blocks: Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is the molecule that […]

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.

Most dogs have had diarrhea in their life. Learn when it's a cause for concern, how to treat it, and when you should go to the vet for dog diarrhea.

The 2024 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, which took place in Queens, New York, on May 11-14, has picked its Group Winners to move on to Best in Show.

Can dogs take Doxycycline? Here's everything you need to know about what Doxycycline is used for in dogs. Always consult your veterinarian first.

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.

(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 […]

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 […]

Through the years, many different breeds have won Best in Show at New York City’s Westminster Dog Show, including the 2022 winner Trumpet the Bloodhound.

The letters at the beginning and end of a dog's registered name are titles which are accomplishments the dog has earned. Learn more about what titles mean.

From the Affenpinscher to the Yorkshire Terrier, toy breeds might be the miniatures of the dog world, but their small sizes pack big personalities.

The Junior Showmanship competition at Westminster celebrated its 90th year. Junior Handler Octavia Stensen took home 2024 Westminster Best Junior.

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.

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 […]

With their wagging tails and friendly temperament, the Cocker Spaniel has long been one of the most popular dog breeds. Learn more about this merry breed.

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.

What Does it Take to be an AKC Registered Breed?  The American Kennel Club, founded in 1884, maintains the largest registry of purebred dogs in the world, and currently registers 200 breeds, representing a wide variety of sizes, colors, coats, temperaments and heritages.  A dog that has full registration with the AKC is eligible to […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 you know your dog drank coffee or ate coffee grounds or beans, you need to monitor them for toxicity. Here's what to do if your dog drinks coffee.

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 […]

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.

Bailey’s Book Club, an American Kennel Club® program, is designed to provide dog-themed books and related resources to K-12 schools around the country that qualify as Title 1 or have at least 40% of students enrolled qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. The program also provides children with an opportunity to learn about the importance […]

During a reverse sneeze, the dog will suddenly stand still, extend its head, and produce a loud snorting sound. Here's why your dog reverse sneezes.

2024 AKC National Championship presented by Royal Canin Orange County Convention Center Orlando, FL December 14 & 15, 2024 All Sporting, Hound, Toy, Non-Sporting Breeds and Junior Showmanship Competition  will be Judged on Saturday All Working, Terrier, Herding Breeds, Miscellaneous and Best in Show will be Judged on Sunday The 2024 event will showcase the top canine athletes […]

Canine physical therapy, known as canine rehabilitation therapy, is a growing field of alternative veterinary treatment that can be beneficial for dogs.

Scheduling Conformation Events General Questions Points Schedule Formulation Specialties Held With All-Breed and Group Shows Classes and Entries Submitting Results Awards and Titles Judges and Judging Junior Showmanship Sweepstakes Trophies, Prizes, and Ribbons Club Membership Upload Tool Scheduling Conformation Events AKC recommended Best Practices to hire and assign judges, leading to an efficient schedule. General […]

Good dogs come from good breeders. Good breeders strive to improve their breeds while considering canine health, temperament, training and promoting responsible dog ownership. Part art, part science, and total devotion, breeding is exciting and challenging. Breeder education is key. The American Kennel Club will be honoring Parent Clubs which provide outstanding breeder education materials […]