The pancreas plays an important role in digestion. When this organ becomes inflamed, it's called pancreatitis. The warning signs of pancreatitis aren't always obvious. Your dog might throw up a few times in a day or seem lethargic. Or they might be lying down and refusing to eat. Not even their favorite treat can get […]

Breeder of Merit FAQs [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Prepaid Registrations In Breeder Toolkit"] If you plan to use the prepaid option to register all of the puppies – Do not select the electronic (downloadable) litter kit when you register the litter. That will disable the prepaid option. You are able to send an individual Registration Application for […]

One of a dog owner's worst nightmares is having their dog run away, yet it's an all too common and dangerous scenario. So how do you prevent it?

2026 AKC Photo Contest OFFICIAL RULES NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN.  MANY WILL ENTER, FEW WILL WIN.  A PURCHASE OR PAYMENT OF ANY KIND WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING.  INTERNET ACCESS AND EMAIL ADDRESS REQUIRED. ALL FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL AND MUNICIPAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS WILL APPLY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Eligibility: The […]

[accordion] [accordion_panel title="Adjunct Approval (April 1994 Board meeting)"] When a new breed becomes eligible for championship competition, there is one three-month window of opportunity for judges to submit applications under the adjunct system. [/accordion_panel] [accordion_panel title="AKC Board Household Judges (July 2000 Board meeting)"] A household member of a Board member may submit a judging application […]

  [accordion] [accordion_panel title="2026"] The AKC Detection Dog Task Force invites you to join an upcoming webinar: Comparing Multiple Approaches to the Breeding and Training of Detection Dogs. Date: Thursday, May 14, 2026 Time: 7:30 PM (ET) Duration: Approximately 1 hour Industry experts with diverse backgrounds will compare and contrast their approaches to breeding and […]

Since the 1980's, there have been significant advances in the field of animal assisted therapy and the use of therapy dogs. Organized therapy dog groups provide educational material to volunteers, they screen both volunteers and dogs, and they provide liability insurance for when the dog and handler are volunteering in a therapy setting. Therapy dog […]

Want to bring your dog boating or kayaking? Learn how to prepare, choose the right watercraft, and keep your dog safe on the water.

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...

Adding a new puppy to the family can be a fun and memorable experience. But not all members of your household might share your enthusiasm. Perhaps you have a senior dog at home with different needs from a younger dog. Plus, some dogs are considered a senior at 6 years old, while smaller breeds, like […]

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, […]

Finding out your dog has cancer can feel devastating. Thankfully, advances in the field of veterinary oncology mean that multiple treatment options are available. In many cases, these can help to extend and improve your dog's life. Among these treatment options is radiation therapy for dogs. Radiation therapy can be used on its own. It […]

If your dog is lost, the first 48 hours are crucial to finding them. Here's a step-by-step guide on what to do if your dog is lost.

An estimated 20 percent of dogs have some form of ear disease. Here are the symptoms and treatment for dog ear infections.

Enrollment for 2026 Spring/Summer Season is Open Sign-ups for the Spring/Summer Season will remain open through May 4. Captains should first enroll their teams: https://akc.jotform.com/260555492513963 Once the teams are enrolled, captains can let their handlers know to sign up their dogs to their teams: Agility League Enroll Handler & Dog: 2026 Spring/Summer Season If you […]

Can dogs eat strawberries? Yes, in moderation. Learn how to safely feed strawberries to your pet.

Can dogs eat avocado? Here's why these fruits aren't safe for dogs to eat.

Processing grief over a dog's death can be incredibly difficult. Here are some ways to seek support and cope with the loss while remembering a beloved pet.

Want to teach your dog to walk on a leash without pulling? Here's a step-by-step guide on leash training for both dogs and puppies.

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 […]