For millennia, dogs have accompanied us pretty much everywhere, from the bush-shaking throes of the hunt to the contemplative crackle of the evening fire. So it shouldn’t be too hard to understand why in some long-ago civilizations, their presence was required on life’s final and most critical journey – to the Great Beyond. This ancient […]

The Xoloitzcuintli, also called the Mexican hairless dog, dates back millennia to ancient Aztec times. The Xolo comes in three distinct sizes, as well as both hairless and coated varieties. Xolos have developed thick, tough skin, but some dogs may require sunscreen for protection. Though they descend from regal dogs dating back over 3,500 years, […]

Even if you haven’t heard of the Xolo (pronounced “show-low”), you’ve likely seen one of these unusual dogs at some point. The Aztecs considered the Xolo sacred, and invested them with mystical healing abilities. The breed’s full name, Xoloitzcuintli, derives from the name of the Aztec god of fire and lightning, Xolotl, as well as […]

In honor of Cinco de Mayo, we've rounded up some fascinating facts about Mexico's native dog breeds: the Xoloitzcuintli and the Chihuahua. While only a minor holiday in Mexico, Cinco de Mayo has become a big deal in the United States. This popular observance is thanks in part to Mexican-American activists in the 1960s, who saw […]

The 3,000-year-old Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced "show-low-eats-QUEENT-lee"), the ancient Aztec dog of the gods, is today a loving companion and vigilant watchdog. The alert and loyal Xolo comes in three sizes, and in either hairless or coated varieties.

What makes your dog's coat long, short, straight, curly, wiry or silky? Most coat types are determined by genes at just three genetic locations.

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 […]

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!

[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 […]

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 […]

AKC Meet the Breeds events are a fun and educational way to spend a day with the whole family, and maybe even figure out which dog breed is right for you! If you are attending an AKC Meet the Breeds event in 2024, or are thinking about attending an event in the future, you can […]

Update: Season 4 is coming soon! In our award-winning Down and Back: Stories From the American Kennel Club Archives dog podcast, 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 footage, oral histories, interviews, and more, the show […]

CH Von Hawes Forever Forward, a Rottweiler known as “Granger” triumphed over 1,717 dogs ages six months to 18 months to become the AKC® Royal Canin National All-Breed Junior of the Year, held today in Orlando, Fla in conjunction with the AKC® National Championship Presented by Royal Canin. “Granger,” owned and bred by Peter Hawes […]

Meet "Granger" the Rottweiler, 12.5 month-old winner of the 2023 AKC/Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy & Junior Stakes.

    2023 AKC Fast CAT Invitational Best of Breed Winners Results as of 12/15/23 3:11PM ***All official and final results will be posted following the conclusion of the event*** Breed Call Name Owner Final Time Airedale Terrier Oliver Lauren Combs 7.754 Alaskan Klee Kai Isla Cheryl Simpson 8.746 Alaskan Malamute McKinley Nadaga Poist 8.645 […]

Can dogs sense death? Ask any group of dog lovers, and they can give you example after example. But is it just a coincidence, or can they tell?

We know and love probiotics for people, but what about probiotics for dogs? Probiotics have many benefits, from better skin to a stronger immune system.

"Primitive," "aboriginal," "village," and "landrace" are a few of the terms archaeologists use to describe the world's oldest canine breeds. But what does it mean if a dog breed is primitive?

Does your dog dart out the door as soon as it's opened? This behavior is very dangerous, but alternative behaviors can help them react appropriately.

LGBTQIA+ dog owners have always been part of AKC dog sports. For some, the dog world has been a supportive haven, while for others, it has been more challenging.

Heart murmurs in dogs can be harmless or represent serious health conditions. Learn about the different types and how they're diagnosed and treated.

The AKC uses registration data to collect the most popular breeds of the past year, and for the first time in history, the French Bulldog takes the #1 spot

For a lot of new dog owners, it can be difficult to determine how often you should bathe your puppy or adult dog. The truth is, the answer depends on a lot of factors. “How frequently a pet needs a bath greatly varies based upon their breed, lifestyle, length of coat, and how much homework […]

You likely know about the dangers of leaving your dog unattended in a hot car. But, what about when it's cold outside? While you might think it's safe to park your pet during the winter months, the potential for harm, while not as high as in the summer, is still substantial. Your dog may enjoy […]

While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, some breeds are better than others for allergy sufferers. By taking an allergy test, you can better determine the best dog for you. There are multiple ways to reduce dog allergens, including grooming and keeping a clean home. Sharing your life with a dog is a special experience. After all, […]

You say to-MAY-to, and I say to-MAH-to. But Xoloitzcuintli? Let's call the whole thing off. As more dog breeds are recognized by the American Kennel Club, dog lovers are confronted with some real tongue twisters. In the past, there was a tendency to anglicize challenging breed names, such as the Polish Lowland Sheepdog, which in its […]

AKC Meet the Breeds is an excellent way to do first-hand research on different dog breeds. Here's what to ask at each breed booth.

Season 6 - Winter 2024 [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Extended Ph.D."] Winter Season Finals – Extended Ph.D. – Teams & Dogs Congratulations to all teams & dogs that completed the Winter Season! Great job! Here are the top placers for Season 6: Top Teams Champion – Happy Dog Sports Team 1 – Texas Reserve Champion – New […]

The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) is pleased to announce the judging panels for the 2022 National Owner-Handled Series (NOHS) Finals and the AKC Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy and Junior Stakes to be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida in conjunction with the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin. The NOHS Finals will be held […]

No one can keep the Lab down! The American Kennel Club (AKC®) announced at a virtual press conference today at the AKC Museum of the Dog that the ever-popular Labrador Retriever is the nation’s favorite dog for the 31st consecutive year. While the loveable Lab remains a constant at the top of the charts, the […]