Kimberly and Colin Fritzer are AKC Breeders of Merit and the owners of Windrock Greyhounds in Grand Junction, Colorado. They are originally from Wyoming and plan to return to their home state next year. The Fritzers have been breeding Greyhounds since the early 1990s, having bred Afghan Hounds before that. Kimberly, who describes herself as “just an old farm kid,” is also a livestock judge with a very critical eye when it comes to animals. She has raised more than 350 champions and […]

The AKC Lifetime Achievement Awards were created to recognize those individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the sport of purebred dogs on a national level. The recipients were selected by votes cast by AKC Member Clubs for nominees in each of the following categories: Conformation, Companion Events and Performance Events. The American Kennel Club […]

The American Kennel Club (AKC®), the world’s largest purebred dog registry and leading advocate for dogs is proud to announce the winners of the 2023 AKC® Lifetime Achievement Awards: Michael Canalizo (Conformation), Curt Curtis (Companion Events) and Laurie Soutar (Performance). The Awards, created by AKC President and CEO Dennis Sprung in 1999, are presented in […]

Order AKC DNA + Health Kit Activate AKC DNA Kit DNA Resource Center All AKC DNA + Health Kits include the original 201 markers for genetic identity and parentage verification purposes, as well as over 328 genetic variants for health and traits, including coat color. Results are delivered by our trusted service provider (Neogen) with […]

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 […]

Over their lifetime, cancer affects one in three dogs. Understand this high risk and life threatening disease so you know the signs and treatments.

Nominees in Conformation Michael Canalizo Michael Canalizo has spent many years in the Dog Show World as a Breeder/Owner, Professional Handler, turned Judge. His first exposure to his primary breed: the Afghan Hound came in 1961 as a member of “the typical Hobby Breeder family” with their purchase of “Babu Bamn of Grandeur”. He showed […]

Can dogs with missing tails, ears, or eyes compete in AKC conformations shows? It depends on the missing part and the breed standard.

The Group Winners are chosen to decide who will compete for Best in Show at the 2023 AKC National Championship. See the group winners here.

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 […]

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?

All AKC DNA + Health Kits include the original 201 markers for genetic identity and parentage verification purposes, as well as over 328 genetic variants for health and traits. Download a pdf of all included tests Health Tests Acral Mutilation Syndrome (AMS, SN) This genetic variant is associated with an inherited neurological disease characterized by […]

Every year, the AKC publishes its list of breed rankings by popularity, based on registration statistics. 2022, the top 10 least popular breeds were: Pyrenean Shepherds (No. 190) Cesky Terriers (No. 191) Sussex Spaniels (No. 192) Harriers (No. 193) Azawakhs (No. 194) Belgian Laekenois (No. 195) American Foxhounds (No. 196) Sloughis (No. 197) Norwegian Lundehunds […]

Former Shelter Dog Becomes Top-Titled Fast CAT All American! Turned in as a stray to a shelter in Alabama and then turned back in by her first adoptive family, Holly was lucky that Danny Terry realized her potential and took her home. The now 8-year-old dog has the impressive formal name of DMT's Christmas In […]

Greyhounds aren't known for being water-lovers but dock diving enthusiast Shuggs is an exception. He is the only dog of his breed to title in Diving Dogs.

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

Do all dogs need a winter coat? If so, what are the best winter coats for dogs? We break down our favorites for dogs of all sizes and breeds.

Snow, sleet, ice, and wind: There's a lot to prepare for when it comes to winter weather. Just like we're affected by the cold, our dogs are, too. Here are a few simple measures you can take to make sure your dog stays warm, happy, and healthy throughout the winter. 1. Limit Your Dog's Time […]

When it comes to the dog flu, it’s important to always be prepared. Here's an overview of the symptoms and treatment options for canine influenza.

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is full of energy, loves people, and makes a great family pet. Here are some interesting facts about this lovable breed. 1. They are native to Ireland. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is one of four terrier breeds that are native to Ireland. According to legend, when the Spanish Armada […]