Christina Merten is a wildlife rehabilitation technician at the Wildlife Center of the North Coast in Astoria, Oregon. Here, she recounts the story of her "once-in-a-lifetime dog", Jay the Papillon. A chance encounter with an old, sick, smelly dog turned out to be an unexpected gift. I was on my way to work as a […]

The quick, curious Papillon is a toy dog of singular beauty and upbeat athleticism. Despite his refined appearance, the Pap is truly a “doggy dog” blessed with a hardy constitution. Papillon fanciers describe their breed as happy, alert, and friendly.

Sometimes called the "butterfly dog" because of its unusual ear shape—"papillon" means butterfly in French—the Papillon is one of the oldest toy breeds. Originally called the Dwarf Spaniel or Continental Toy Spaniel, the Papillon was depicted in artwork as early as the 16th century. Louis XIV and Marie Antoinette were known fans of the breed. […]

Papillon celebrates 100 years in AKC Stud Book In 1915 the AKC registered an itty-bitty dog named Joujou, its first Papillon. In the 10 decades since, the small breed with the big ears has beguiled American owners with its sunny personality and surprising athleticism. This year we welcome the Papillon, along with the Flat-Coated Retriever, as […]

After an action-packed weekend, the 2024 Masters Agility Championship at Westminster, a winner has been crowned.

The American Kennel Club (AKC®), a not-for-profit organization, the world’s largest purebred dog registry and leading advocate for dogs, is pleased to announce the winners of the recently concluded sixth season of the AKC Agility League. Team champions were named in each of the eight divisions. The AKC Agility League is sponsored by Purina Pro […]

Like humans, dogs lose water and electrolytes through sweat, urination, vomiting, and diarrhea. Out of the options to rehydrate, is Pedialyte good for dogs?

When should you give your dog a reward? Every time they perform a behavior or just once in a while? Learn how to schedule rewards effectively.

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 French Bulldog reigns supreme! The American Kennel Club (AKC®), a not-for-profit organization, the world’s largest purebred dog registry and leading advocate for dogs, announced this morning that the playful and adaptable French Bulldog is America’s most popular breed for the second consecutive year, according to AKC registration statistics. Since overtaking the loveable Labrador Retriever […]