Luxating patella in dogs is one of the most common orthopedic conditions, diagnosed in 7% of puppies. How do you treat it?

There are a variety of breeds that don’t shed, each with different temperaments and energy levels, so you can find the right breed for your lifestyle. Breeds that Don‘t Shed Bedlington Terrier: The gentle, loveable Bedlington Terrier is known for its curly, wooly coat that resembles a lamb. The breed doesn’t need intense exercise – […]

Looking to add the Havanese to your family? Learn more about this member of the toy group and if they're a good fit for you.

When your dog is wet from a bath, swimming, or from walking outside in the rain or snow it's important to dry them thoroughly. Drying your dog can help...

The American Kennel Club is the world's largest registry of purebred dogs, and uses these statistics to rank the most popular breeds — and the rarest breeds. The numbers are in: these are the rarest dog breeds according to AKC registration statistics. In 2025, 202 total breeds were counted in the registration statistics. In 2026, […]

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 […]

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 […]

[accordion] [accordion] [accordion_panel title="2026"] Below you will find recording links and resources for webinars that aired in 2026. Once you click the recording link, you will be asked to enter your name and email address in order to access the recording. Webinar Topic Recording Link Review & FAQ’s on Conformation Judging Procedures, Policies & GuidelinesTuesday, […]

Some dog breeds are easy to say. Others, like the Nederlandse Kooikerhondje, are trickier. Learn proper ways to pronounce tough breed names.

In Florida’s competitive Junior Showmanship scene, young handlers like Gemma Eldridge must be exceptional to be noticed.

AKC National Agility Championship Champion Teams 2026 - Temecula, CA AKC National Agility Champions 08" - MACH Welly MXB MJS XF T2B CGC, a Pembroke Welsh Corgi known as Welly, handled by Peter Wirth of Longmont, CO 12" - MACH6 Safranne's Have No Fear MXS2 PAD MJG2 PJS NF, a Poodle known as Skye, handled […]

Homemade dog treats are a great way to provide your dog with tasty and healthy snacks. We've selected fun molds and delicious recipes to help you make your dog's new favorite treat.

When I was a child, I never ate an ice cream cone without giving the final bite to my dog. He loved sharing my cold treats, but at the time, I didn't realize it wasn't the best choice for his health. Ice cream can be hard for dogs to digest because milk and cream are the […]

Owning a dog is a huge commitment, but is arguably one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll ever have in your life. While there are a lot of decisions to make when it comes to choosing the right dog for you, you might find you’ll have to make some compromises. Temperament, exercise requirements, and level […]

From sporting dogs to toy breeds, show dogs must look the part. “Miss America does not just sit on the couch eating potato chips before a pageant,” says Susan Hamil, a veteran of the dog show world. “It’s the same for show dogs.” Hamil, a judge and fancier of Bloodhounds, is one of the four […]

How exactly do lost dogs find their way home from so far afield? New research from the Czech Republic might hold the answer.

So, you want a dog but you seem to have an allergy attack whenever you're around one? You're not alone! It's estimated that 10 and 20% of people are allergic to cats and dogs, causing many prospective puppy owners to wonder which dogs are hypoallergenic. Spoiler alert: none of them are. That's right: no dog […]

On Tuesday (March 24), the Illinois House Agriculture and Conservation Committee will consider a bill that would impose extensive new requirements on licensed dog breeders. This bill is identical to SB 2990 considered last week in the Senate and applies “one-size-fits-all” commercial-style standards to all breeders (Under Illinois law, a dog breeder is anyone who […]

The French Bulldog continues to warm hearts in the United States! The American Kennel Club (AKC®), a not-for-profit organization that is the world’s largest registry of purebred and mixed-breed dogs, and a leading voice for canine welfare and responsible ownership, announced this morning that the beloved French Bulldog is America’s most popular breed for the […]

The American Kennel Club has released registration statistics for 2025. Who will be crowned the most popular breed?

After confirming that your dog is healthy, the following tips can help you prevent and clean tear stains from your dog's face.

There's no greater joy in life than having a dog. There's also no task more daunting than continuously vacuuming their hair. Still, you don't have to live with fur clinging to your floors, couch, and clothes. Instead, you can purchase a pet vacuum that's designed to suck up those hairballs and reduce indoor allergens. Not […]

Does your dog have an upset stomach? Learn which foods can help soothe your dog’s tummy, plus what to avoid and when to call the vet.

AKC Directory Please click here to view the contact information for Staff. AKC Registered Handlers Over the years professional handlers have played an important part in the history of the sport of dogs. They have provided the support system for the top show dogs in the history of many breeds. Expertise in the care, conditioning […]

The following breeders have met the requirements for the Breed and Levels recorded at the time of the application. The American Kennel Club is pleased to recognize these breeders for their contribution to the sport and maintaining the tenets of the Breeder of Merit program. (current as of  3/12/26, last updated 3/13/26) [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Platinum"] […]

Your best tool for deciding what to feed your dog is right on the can or bag. But first, you need to know how to read a dog food label.

We’ve all had this experience—a summer day, a drive to the lake, and a refreshing dip in the clear cool water. Then there’s the agonizing drive home, as you try to keep your eyes on the road, even as you're about to pass out from the smell of wet dog. Ever wonder what the recipe […]

Consider your dog's activity level, overall health, and personality, then check out this list of fun backyard games to play with your dog.

Barbet Learn about Barbets [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Rescue Organizations"] Barbet Club of America Ellen Rich, (248) 978-2715, eredavi@aol.com [/accordion_panel] [/accordion] Basenji Learn about Basenjis [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Rescue Organizations"] Basenji Club of America Joe Carlson, 954-815-2143, ernursero@aol.com Basenji Rescue & Transport, Inc. [/accordion_panel] [/accordion] Basset Hound Learn about Basset Hounds [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Rescue Organizations"] Basset Hound Club of America, […]

The following are the group designations that AKC breeds have been assigned. There are currently 205 breeds and 9 breeds with 21 varieties.  The varieties are by size, color or group.   The varieties are marked by **(Revised 3/10/26) [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Sporting Group – 33 breeds"] Sporting Group Naturally active and alert, Sporting dogs make likeable, […]