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Sports & Events
Judges’ Study Guides
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 […]
https://www.akc.org/sports/conformation/judging-information/judges-study-guides/
| January 27, 2025

Expert Advice: Events
How to Watch the 2025 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show
The 2025 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show takes place at the Jacob K. Javits Center and Madison Square Garden on February 8, 10-11. Here's how to watch.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/how-to-watch-westminster/
| June 6, 2022
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FSS News & Updates
(updated 2/4/25 ) 1/13/2025 From the January Board Meeting - One new breed was added to the Foundation Stock Service Program – Calupoh. 11/12/24 From the November Board Meeting - One new breed was added to the Foundation Stock Service Program – Canadian Eskimo Dog. The Alaskan Klee Kai was approved to compete in the […]
https://www.akc.org/breeder-programs/foundation-stock-service-program/fss-news-updates/
| November 17, 2017

Expert Advice: Events
By the Numbers: Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show Best in Show Winners
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.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/westminster-dog-show-statistics/
| February 6, 2020

Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
Is a German Shepherd Dog a Good Fit for You?
Is a German Shepherd Dog right for you? Experts who know the breed will tell you that it all depends. Perhaps a better answer to the question "Which dog is right for you?" lies in a few bigger questions. What do you want in a dog? Where do you plan to take your dog? Gow […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/german-shepherd-dog-right-for-you/
| January 6, 2021

Expert Advice: Breed Preservation
Is the Labrador Retriever a Good Fit for You?
Finding a dog for your family is a hard decision. Why not consider the Labrador Retriever, one of the most popular breeds in the US?
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/labrador-retriever-right-for-you/
| April 18, 2024

Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
Is the French Bulldog a Good Fit for You?
If you're looking to bring a dog into your home, consider one of America's most popular dog breeds: the French Bulldog.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/french-bulldog-right-for-you/
| August 16, 2024

Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
Is the Poodle a Good Fit for You?
An elegant, intelligent, and energetic breed, the Standard Poodle is one of three Poodle sizes. Is this the right breed for your lifestyle?
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/poodle-right-for-you/
| April 29, 2024

Expert Advice: Breed Preservation
Is the Dalmatian a Good Fit for You?
If you're looking for a big, loving, energetic dog for you and your family, the Dalmatian might be a good choice for you.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/dalmatian-right-for-you/
| November 15, 2024

Expert Advice: Breed History
History of the AKC Breed Groups: Why Are There Seven Groups?
There's a reason why the AKC divides its breeds into seven groups. That reason is a mixture of tradition and breed function. But why?
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/history-akc-breed-groups/
| January 17, 2025

Expert Advice: Breed History
Irish Water Spaniel History: From Mysterious Origins to Beloved Sporting Breed
The Irish Water Spaniel was one of the nine original breeds recognized by the AKC. Learn more about this versatile, water-loving breed's history.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/irish-water-spaniel-history/
| November 12, 2020

Expert Advice: Agility
How Do Dog Agility Competitions Work?
Ever wonder what goes on at a dog agility competition? We've made a beginner's guide — including a breakdown of the obstacles!
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/sports/agility-competition-101/
| March 9, 2023

Expert Advice: Breed History
Bulldog History: From Medieval Fighters to Lovable Companions
Follow the evolution of the Bulldog, from its medieval English beginnings to winning Best in Show at Westminster in America.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/bulldog-history/
| October 21, 2022
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Special Registry Services – Foreign Registration
The American Kennel Club is opposed to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. In solidarity with Ukrainian people, effective immediately, judges from the Russian Federation will not be approved to judge at AKC sanctioned events. Additionally, requests for imported dog registrations (AKC Foreign Registration) for dogs born in Russia, will be denied effective immediately. (February 2022) […]
https://www.akc.org/rules/special-registry-services/
| November 1, 2017

Expert Advice: Fun Facts
Facts About the Bichon Frise You May Not Know
There is more to the Bichon Frise than meets the eye. Here are some facts you might not know.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/fun-facts-bichon-frise/
| January 13, 2025
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AKC Breeds Broken Out By Group
The following are the group designations that AKC breeds have been assigned. There are currently 202 breeds and 9 breeds with 21 varieties. The varieties are by size, color or group. The varieties are marked by **(Revised 1/01/25) [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Sporting Group – 33 breeds"] Sporting Group Naturally active and alert, Sporting dogs make likeable, […]
https://www.akc.org/akc-breeds-by-group/
| December 23, 2024
Clubs & Delegates
Legislative Successes
The following list highlights some of the AKC Government Relations’ (AKC GR) legislative successes through December 31, 2024. These and other victories have been won in cooperation with AKC federations, clubs, and responsible dog owners and breeders around the country who continue to work tirelessly to promote positive canine legislation in their state and community. […]
https://www.akc.org/clubs-delegates/government-relations/successes/
| December 2, 2021
Clubs & Delegates
Seminars
You may search several different ways in order to find the seminars you may be interested in. Please choose the way you wish to see the seminars presented in order to proceed: State Breed Seminar Type Presenter All Seminars Schedule of Future Advanced Judging Institutes (PDF) [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Judges Education Webinars"] Judging Operations in collaboration […]
https://www.akc.org/clubs-delegates/clubs/resources/seminars/
| April 29, 2024
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FSS and Miscellaneous Breeds Broken Out By Group
The following are the group designations that the current FSS breeds have been assigned. There are currently 86 breeds in the FSS program. (Revised 1/1/25) Sporting Group - 16 breeds Blue Picardy Spaniel Braque du Bourbonnais Braque Francais Pyrenean Braque St. Germain Deutscher Wachtelhund Drentsche Patrijshond French Spaniel German Longhaired Pointer Large Munsterlander Pont-Audemer Spaniel […]
https://www.akc.org/breeder-programs/foundation-stock-service-program/fss-breeds-broken-group/
| November 17, 2017
Pages
Open Registration
When a new breed is accepted in the American Kennel Club a special type of registration known as Open Registration, is available for a limited time. The American Kennel Club in conjunction with the Parent Club (also known as a national breed club) sets this time frame for the breed. Eligibility for Open Registration In […]
https://www.akc.org/register/information/open-registration/
| December 19, 2014

Expert Advice: Events
Group Winners Crowned at the 2024 AKC National Championship
The biggest Conformation event of the year is here, and the results are out! See the group winners of the 2024 AKC National Championship.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/akc-national-championship-group-winners-2024/
| December 30, 2024
Press Releases
GIANT SCHNAUZER “MONTY” WINS BEST IN SHOW AT 24th AKC® NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP PRESENTED BY ROYAL CANIN
GCHG CH Hearthmore's Wintergreen Mountain RI CGC TKN FITB, a Giant Schnauzer known as “Monty” triumphed over more than 5,600 competitors to earn a $50,000 cash prize when they were awarded Best in Show at the AKC® National Championship Presented by Royal Canin, held December 14-15, 2024 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, […]
https://www.akc.org/press-releases/giant-schnauzer-monty-wins-best-show-24th-akc-national-championship-presented-royal-canin/
| December 30, 2024

Expert Advice: Breed History
Welsh Terrier History: From Rugged Ratters to Spirited Companions
The Welsh Terrier history shows how the breed developed from a rat hunter at home to a full-fledged show dog who still lives for the hunt.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/welsh-terrier-history/
| October 14, 2022

Expert Advice: Conformation
Bernese Mountain Dog ‘Ulli’ Wins 2024 National Owner-Handled Series Best in Show
The National Owner-Handler Series celebrates dogs shown that are owned and handled by the same person. See the group winners and Best in Show.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/sports/nohs-best-in-show-2024/
| December 15, 2024
Press Releases
SANDI LYON NAMED 2024 AKC BREEDER OF THE YEAR
Sandi Lyon was presented with the 2024 AKC Breeder of the Year award for Margaux Bouviers at the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin on Saturday, December 14, 2024. The annual award honors those breeders who have made an impact on their breed and dedicate their lives to improving the health, temperament and quality […]
https://www.akc.org/press-releases/sandi-lyon-named-2024-akc-breeder-year/
| December 15, 2024
Press Releases
BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG “ULLI” WINS BEST IN SHOW AT 2024 AKC NATIONAL OWNER-HANDLED SERIES FINALS
The AKC® National Owner-Handled Series (NOHS) Finals Best in Show honors went to GCHG CH Windfall Adesa 3 Wire Winter @ Emerald Mtn CD RN FDC CGC, a Bernese Mountain Dog known affectionately as “Ulli” owned and handled by Beth Dennehy and bred by Kris Hayko and Michael Knicely D.V.M. The 2024 NOHS Finals Best […]
https://www.akc.org/press-releases/bernese-mountain-dog-ulli-wins-best-show-2024-akc-national-owner-handled-series-finals/
| December 14, 2024

Expert Advice: Conformation
Meet the Winner of the 2024 AKC/Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy & Junior Stakes
Sunquest Hidden Treasure, a Pekingese known as "Digger" triumphed over 1,756 dogs ages six months to 18 months to become the AKC® Royal Canin National...
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/sports/winner-2024-puppy-junior-stakes/
| December 14, 2024
Press Releases
TOP DOGS CROWNED AT INAUGURAL AKC RACH INVITATIONAL
The top dogs in the nation were crowned from an overall entry of 139 dogs this past weekend at the first AKC RACH Invitational. Competitions were held December 12-13, 2024, in conjunction with the AKC® National Championship Presented by Royal Canin at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL. The winners: AKC RACH Invitational […]
https://www.akc.org/press-releases/top-dogs-crowned-inaugural-akc-rach-invitational/
| December 14, 2024
Press Releases
PEKINGESE “DIGGER” WINS AKC ROYAL CANIN NATIONAL ALL-BREED PUPPY AND JUNIOR STAKES
Sunquest Hidden Treasure, a Pekingese known as “Digger” triumphed over 1,756 dogs ages six months to 18 months to become the AKC® Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy of the Year, held today in Orlando, Fla in conjunction with the AKC® National Championship Presented by Royal Canin. “Digger,” owned and bred by Kay Canaan of Gaffney, […]
https://www.akc.org/press-releases/pekingese-digger-wins-akc-royal-canin-national-breed-puppy-junior-stakes/
| December 14, 2024

Sports & Events
AKC National Championship presented by Royal Canin
2024 AKC National Championship presented by Royal Canin Orange County Convention Center Orlando, FL December 14 & 15, 2024 AKC National Championship Judge Changes: Ms. Pamela Bruce will Judge Toy Fox Terriers in place of Gina Wieser and will Judge Lancashire Heelers in place of Ms. Linda L. Robey. Mrs. Sheila DiNardo will Judge Spaniels […]
https://www.akc.org/sports/conformation/national-championship/
| November 26, 2018