A dog owner’s worst nightmare is losing their dog, but accidents happen. Dogs can slip out the door, back out of a collar, or escape from a yard. If your dog gets loose, staying calm and using the right approach can make all the difference. With preparation, training, and quick action, you can improve the […]

Making friends in a new city can be challenging. But dogs often make that transition easier by sparking conversations, encouraging shared routines, and helping owners feel more connected. Research and real-life experiences show that dogs can boost confidence, improve mental well-being, and open doors to friendships and even romance. Meeting People Through Everyday Dog Activities […]

"Wouldn't it be great if our dogs could talk?" says Amanda Nascimento DVM, MSc, PhD. "If you listen closely, they can." In This Article Understanding Why Dogs Bark Why Dogs Whine Understanding the Context Behind a Dog’s Howl Why Some Dogs 'Purr' and What It Means How to Interpret Growling in Different Situations Understanding Why […]

Technology is advancing rapidly everywhere, including in the dog world! These dog tech products are worth trying to help monitor your dog's health and more.

The following are highlights of the numerous bills in Congress that could impact dog owners and the wellbeing of dogs. Visit our 2026 Legislation Tracking map click on the arrow on the Region column to filter for US Federal legislation and get the latest updates on federal bills currently being monitored by the AKC. Highlights of issues […]

July 2026 Delegate Standing Committee Self-Nominations Delegate Committee Self-Nomination Instruction Letter List of Delegate Committee members whose terms expire in September 2026. Delegates who were appointed to fill a vacancy on a committee following the September 2025 Delegate Committee Election are required to self-nominate and be elected to continue as a member of the committee. […]

12 legislatures and the District of Columbia are in session. The following are highlights of current, active legislation around the country:    California – AB 1382 prohibits the sale and importation of genetically modified pets with cosmetic traits in California, except for modifications that benefit animal health or human interaction, and imposes civil penalties for violations. The bill […]

The American Kennel Club (AKC®), a not-for-profit organization that is the world’s largest registry of purebred and mixed-breed dogs, and a leading voice for canine welfare and responsible ownership, is pleased to announce that nominations for the President’s Sportsman Award are now open, and will be accepted through Monday, August 17, 2026. Now in its […]

For many, summer is a time for travel – and whether it’s for dog shows and events or a personal vacation – travelers are more often bringing their dogs. Did you know that many states have requirements for bringing a dog into the state – even for a brief period of time for a dog […]

On Tuesday, June 16, a North Carolina House committee will consider a bill regarding tethering and shelters for dogs.  Some provisions in these bills are reasonable and do protect dogs from being harmed while tethered or kept outside.  However, other provisions fail to take into account responsible practices that meet the needs of various dog […]