UC-II® – a breakthrough way of supporting joint health by targeting the immune system. What Is Osteoarthritis? Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, is a painful, progressive condition that gradually breaks down the cartilage surrounding your dog’s joints. There are several causes of osteoarthritis. Some dogs have congenital abnormalities, such as hip dysplasia, that predispose them […]

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

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.

Being a dog owner has plenty of perks, but did you know that it can also positively affect your health? Walking your dog daily has proven to reduce heart disease risk, and dogs provide positive effects on people's mental health.

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 […]

When a puppy seems to be acting off, it helps to recognize the typical signs of good dog health. Here are the signs of a healthy puppy.

You may have used probiotics yourself, but have you ever heard of canine probiotics? Dog probiotics can help promote digestive health, boost immunity, and more.

Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) is a disease in which the immune system attacks and destroys red blood cells. The resulting anemia causes non-specific clinical signs such as weakness, lethargy, and pale gums or jaundice. The immune malfunction is believed to be improper recognition of self versus non-self (molecules of one’s own body versus foreign molecules […]

An executive order signed in June by Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson extends certain liability protections to businesses that open or remain open during the COVID-19 health emergency.  Among other provisions, persons and their employees, agents, and officers shall be immune from civil liability for damages or injuries resulting from exposure to COVID-19 on the premises, […]

Big, brave, and beautiful, Great Danes hold a special place in our hearts. But despite their larger-than-life persona, this giant breed has a relatively short life span. Why Are Great Dane Life Spans So Short? For such big dogs, Great Danes sure get the short end of the stick when it comes to longevity. Great […]

Grocery stores and pharmacies are stocked with row upon row of human vitamins. With so many options for us, it is completely logical that we wonder if dog vitamins are the right choice for our pets, too. But do dogs actually need canine supplements and vitamins? Are there any risks? Which vitamins should you give […]

In 2016, the American Kennel Club (AKC) launched its Canine Health Foundation (CHF) Tick-Borne Disease Research Initiative, and the research is continuing this year. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, the challenge to collect $250,000 in donations for this initiative, matched dollar-for-dollar by the AKC, was reached in 2016 and again in 2017. Putting these […]

Dog Breed Health Testing Requirements Listed below are all AKC breeds and their health testing requirements. A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z Affenpinscher Ophthalmologist Evaluation Patella Evaluation Afghan Hound Hip Evaluation Ophthalmologist Evaluation Thyroid Evaluation Airedale Terrier Hip Evaluation Cardiac Exam Renal Disease DNA Test Ophthalmologist Evaluation Akita Hip Evaluation Ophthalmologist Evaluation Alaskan Malamute Hip Evaluation Ophthalmologist Evaluation Polyneuropathy DNA test American […]

New dog owners should take the time to learn the signs of potential health problems that might develop as a puppy matures into an adult dog. Here are some of the conditions to watch for: Allergies In dogs, allergies often show up as skin conditions, itchy ears, head-shaking, scratching, or bald or raw spots, though […]

Dog Ear Infections and Other Issues Canine ear infections are very common and certain breeds (dogs with long hanging ears) are predisposed to them. Overall, the problem is more common during the warm months, when ear infections are reported to be 10 to 15 percent of all patients brought to veterinary hospitals. Ear infections can […]

Humans often try new trending diets to help them lose weight. If you want to help your dog shed some few pounds though, should you try intermittent fasting, and is it safe for dogs?

Some dogs take to music right away, even howling along to their favorite tunes. Other dogs tend to retreat from these sounds in fear. The fact that pleasant sounds can capture a dog's attention is something people know intuitively and science confirms it. If you listened to a recording of dogs and their owners, you'd […]

Raising well-adjusted, confident toy and small breed puppies begins in the whelping box. Breeders have a pivotal role in helping them become small dogs with big personalities during the eight-week countdown from birth until pups go to new homes. In “Genetics and the Social Behavior of the Dog," behavioral scientists John Paul Scott and John […]

Leo was the picture of health until one day one of his eyes seemed to bulge and cloud over. It turned out to be blastomycosis in dogs, a fungal infection.

An overgrowth of yeast can cause a dog's skin to become itchy and inflamed. Yeast infections not only sound unpleasant but they can be very...

Learn the signs, causes and treatments of the most widespread types of canine dermatitis, a common dog skin condition that can range in severity.

Apoquel for dogs is a medication used to manage the inflammation and itchiness associated with canine allergies. Learn about its benefits and limitations.

Yeast dermatitis is another type of dermatitis that can affect dogs, also called Malassezia. Learn the signs, symptoms, and how to treat.

Pododermatitis in dogs describes inflammation of the paws. We spoke with a veterinary dermatologist to understand the causes and treatment options.

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

Some dogs eagerly await car rides, but for other dogs, traveling by car or airplane can be stressful and nausea-inducing. Can you give them Dramamine?

Imagine stepping into the ring but not being able to see the dog at the end of your leash. This is what dog shows are like for Lexie Lanier.

Candida auris is a fungus. Here's what to know about Candida auris in dogs' ears, including symptoms, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment.

Seborrhea in dogs can cause flaking skin, oily skin and coat, and odor. Learn to recognize and treat this skin condition.

Colitis in dogs is an inflammation of the colon, which is the large bowel or large intestine. If you think your dog has colitis, here's what to know.