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Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
Pointer History: From Ancient Heritage to Loyal Companion
An intense drive to find birds and a loyal companionship in the field and home traces the Pointer's history. The medium-to-large-sized hunting dog has...
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/pointer-history/
| May 17, 2024
Expert Advice: Grooming
Finding the Right Shampoo for Your Dog
Wavy, curly, silky, short, double, dense, wooly, corded – dog coats are definitely not all the same. There’s a wide variation from breed to breed and among individual dogs. Not all dog shampoos are good for every dog, but how do you choose which is the best for your pet? Finding a shampoo that is […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-shampoos/
| March 3, 2022
Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
The Poodle Paradox: History Behind a Haircut
Poodles have been labeled as "elitist" and "overly glamorous" by many who don't understand the breed. Here's the history of the poodle haircut.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/the-poodle-paradox-historical-haircut/
| February 28, 2020
Expert Advice: Conformation
Westminster Best in Show Winners 2008 to 2024
Through the years, many different breeds have won Best in Show at New York City’s Westminster Dog Show, including the 2022 winner Trumpet the Bloodhound.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/sports/westminster-winners-through-the-years/
| June 22, 2022
Expert Advice: Events
By the Numbers: Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show Best in Show Winners
Thousands of dogs compete at the Westminster Kennel Club Best in Show. Check out some statistics on the breeds and groups who've taken the trophy.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/westminster-dog-show-statistics/
| February 6, 2020
Expert Advice: Breed History
German Shepherd Dog History: From Sheep Herding Dog to Popular Companion
German Shepherd Dog history owes its existence, in large part, to the remarkable dog breeder Max von Stephanitz. Learn all about the origins of this hard-working dog breed.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/german-shepherd-dog-history/
| September 5, 2021
Expert Advice: Breed History
Giant Schnauzer History: From Guarding in the Alps, to Military Dogs and Beyond
In December 2021, a Giant Schnauzer named Bayou made breed history by being the first to win the AKC National Championship. But even in the ring, Bayou’s instincts came through. The dog's handler, Alfonso Escobedo, took note of the dog's behavior. The giant canine kept his eyes on the same location in the ring, to […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/giant-schnauzer-history/
| January 3, 2022
Expert Advice: Breed History
Cocker Spaniel History: From Hunting Companions to Popular Pets
With their wagging tails and friendly temperament, the Cocker Spaniel has long been one of the most popular dog breeds. Learn more about this merry breed.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/cocker-spaniel-history/
| April 25, 2022
Expert Advice: Fun Facts
The 7 AKC Dog Breed Groups Explained
At AKC shows, dogs are organized into 7 groups: Hound, Working, Sporting, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, and Herding. Learn about what makes each group unique.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/7-akc-dog-breed-groups-explained/
| September 26, 2019
Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
Standard Poodle Facts You May Not Know
Standard Poodles are among the most instantly recognizable of all dog breeds. Known largely for their stylish looks, the athletic, eager, and intelligent Standard Poodle has so many more talents besides simply looking pretty. Learn more about this iconic Non-Sporting Group breed with these Standard Poodle fun facts. Standard Poodles Originated in Germany Although it […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/fun-facts-standard-poodle/
| December 24, 2019
Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
Afghan Hound History: From Ancient Breed to Dignified Companion
While there was once debate over the Afghan Hound's appearance, there was universal agreement on its personality. Read more about the history of this breed.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/afghan-hound-history/
| January 19, 2021
Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
Xoloitzcuintli History: From Ancient Aztec Dog to Loving Companion
The Xoloitzcuintli has long been associated with death in Aztec Society, most recently depicted in the Pixar movie "Coco." Here's the Xolo's breed history.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/xoloitzcuintli-history/
| July 23, 2020
Press Releases
2024 AKC NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP JUDGING PANEL NOW AVAILABLE
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 […]
https://www.akc.org/press-releases/2024-akc-national-championship-judging-panel-now-available/
| February 21, 2024
Expert Advice: News
These Popular Dog Breeds Have Never Won Best In Show At Westminster
The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, presented by Purina® Pro Plan® has crowned hundreds of Best in Show winners in its history. Though any breed can win the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, some breeds have taken home the Best in Show ribbon more than others. But breeds don't win based on popularity: some of the […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/breeds-to-never-win-westminster/
| February 14, 2020
Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
Get to Know the Coonhound Breeds
Six breeds: the American English Coonhound, Black and Tan Coonhound, Bluetick Coonhound, Plott Hound, Redbone Coonhound, and the Treeing Walker...
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/meet-coonhound-breeds/
| May 10, 2024
Expert Advice: Health
Study Busts the Myth That Purebred Dogs Have More Health Problems
A new study suggests that mixed-breed dogs do not have a medical advantage over purebred dogs. Both experience many of the same common health concerns.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/common-dog-diseases-not-breed-specific/
| May 9, 2024
Pages
Down and Back: Stories From the American Kennel Club Archives Dog Podcast
In our award-winning Down and Back: Stories From the American Kennel Club Archives dog podcast, now in Season Four, 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 material, oral histories, interviews, and more, the show brings dog […]
https://www.akc.org/about/down-and-back-akc-podcast/
| December 20, 2023
Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
Best Family Dogs: Which Breed Is Right for You?
Which breeds make the best family dogs? What are the best dog breeds for kids? We've compiled some of the best dog breeds for families and kids.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/best-family-dogs/
| March 26, 2021
Expert Advice: Dog Sports
Try Something New This Summer: Dog Sports!
Give these summer dog sports a go during the hotter months, as they're perfect for bonding and working with your dog outside.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/sports/summer-dog-sports/
| May 17, 2022
Sports & Events
AKC National Championship presented by Royal Canin
2024 AKC National Championship presented by Royal Canin Orange County Convention Center Orlando, FL December 14 & 15, 2024 All Sporting, Hound, Toy, Non-Sporting Breeds and Junior Showmanship Competition will be Judged on Saturday All Working, Terrier, Herding Breeds, Miscellaneous and Best in Show will be Judged on Sunday The 2024 event will showcase the top canine athletes […]
https://www.akc.org/sports/conformation/national-championship/
| November 26, 2018