What makes a dog smart? Discover how canine intelligence is defined and which dog breeds consistently rank highest.

Whether you’re breeding your first litter or next Best in Show winner, we offer invaluable resources for dog breeders, including up-to-date information, ongoing educational programs and more: Litter Registration Show you are a responsible breeder and that your puppies meet breed standards! When you register your litters with the AKC, you get a Registration Certificate […]

Breeders that participate in the AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. program enjoy these benefits: Bred with H.E.A.R.T. Program Logos Logos will be on both AKC dog registration applications & certificates Breed Specific Web Banners Web banners may be used to promote program acceptance on your website. Litter and Online Reports Coupons Bred with H.E.A.R.T. membership includes […]

Thank you for your participation in the recent AKC Inspection of your dogs, records, and facilities. AKC has compiled a quick reference list of links to forms, regulations, and commonly requested programs for you. Register My Dog Forms Ownership Records Form Litter Records Form Emergency Preparedness Form Regulations Regulations for Record Keeping & Identification of […]

AKC Breeders of Merit share tips on how to groom a German Shepherd Dog, from best brushes to dealing with nails.

[accordion] [accordion_panel title="2026"] Registration Now Open: 2026 AKC National Detection Dog Conference | August 4–6, 2026, Durham, NC Every day, detection dogs protect our airports, critical infrastructure, and communities. Behind every deployment is a network of professionals working to strengthen America’s detection dog programs. Join us for Unleashing Potential: Building America’s Canine Defense, One Puppy […]

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"] […]

Here’s everything you’ll need prior to joining the Breeder of Merit program:  Have a history of at least 5 years involvement with AKC events  Can demonstrate a commitment to individually registering 100 percent of the puppies you’ve bred Have earned either AKC Conformation, Performance, or Companion* event titles on at least four dogs from AKC […]

In compliance with PCI regulations, the American Kennel Club (AKC) no longer accepts credit card information on paper forms. Please submit payment by check, money order, or complete your transaction securely online. Most AKC forms and applications can be downloaded from this page. For best results, select a form and save it to your computer, […]

Wondering how to groom a Standard Poodle? Here's everything you need to know about caring for your Poodle's coat, skin, nails, and more.

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, […]

Though she's barely taller than the tips of her Great Dane's ears, Junior Handler Olivia Betancourt shines in the conformation ring.

  The American Kennel Club created the Foundation Stock Service® (FSS®) to answer the needs of today's rare breed fanciers. The Foundation Stock Service® is an optional record-keeping service for all purebred breeds not currently registrable with the American Kennel Club. Originally the Foundation Stock Service (FSS) program was used to bring in breeds such […]

Puppy temperament tests can be a helpful tool for breeders placing puppies in homes. But can they predict their behavior into adulthood?

If I purchase/acquire a dog that is from an FSS®-recorded litter, is the dog automatically considered FSS®-recorded? In order to have the dog recorded, you need to forward your FSS® application to the AKC for review with the appropriate fees. You should receive the FSS® application form from the person from whom you bought/acquired the […]

Interested in Cavalier King Charles Spaniel history? Here's how the breed began, how it's related to the King Charles Spaniel, and more.

(updated 1/26/26 ) 1/12/26 The Peruvian Inca Orchid Club of the United States is the official parent club for the Peruvian Inca Orchid and to accept the Peruvian Inca Orchid into the AKC Stud Book on December 30, 2026. The breed will be eligible to compete in the Hound Group beginning December 30, 2026. 10/13/25 […]

Is your dog considered a rare breed? Do you want an informal way to get some event experience under your belt? A Foundation Stock Service (FSS) Open Show is a perfect way for you and your dog to practice before an official event without any pressure, and is a must-do for anyone new to competing. […]

Click the links below to learn about AKC's Foundation Stock Service® Program. Foundation Stock Service® Program Home FSS Checklist - updated September 2025 (PDF) FSS Acceptable Domestic Registries FSS Pamphlet - Updated September 2025 (PDF) FSS FAQs FSS News Parent Club Best Practices First Certificate of Merit Earned for Miscellaneous Breeds How to Count Certificate […]

Meet the Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne, and the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier, AKC's Three Newly Recognized Dog Breeds in 2026.