Today, the U.S. House Agriculture Committee released draft language for the 2024 Farm Bill. This must-pass bill reauthorizes USDA programs for five years and also seeks to address federal animal welfare and breeder oversight programs. As introduced, the bill supports important priorities for dog enthusiasts and responsible breeders, including canine health, welfare and the rights […]

Cones are necessary for dogs after surgery, but they can cause a lot of distress. Teach your dog to tolerate wearing a cone in case the need arises.

From the Affenpinscher to the Yorkshire Terrier, toy breeds might be the miniatures of the dog world, but their small sizes pack big personalities.

  [accordion] [accordion_panel title="AKC Educational Requirements Policy and Recommendations (April 2024 Board meeting)"] As an additional step in creating a safe and respectful sport environment for all, the AKC Board of Directors approved the following educational requirements policy and recommendations.  Effective immediately: AKC Board of Directors, Inspectors, Field Staff across all sports, AKC Registered Handlers, […]

Last week, a San Antonio City Councilmember requested an ordinance intended to address at-large and dangerous dog issues in the city.  However, the request includes concerning provisions requesting the city adopt practices requiring the spaying/neutering of at-large animals even if the owner is identified. The AKC understands the City’s desire to address dangerous dog and […]

Today, the Vermont House of Representatives agreed to minor H. 626 changes made by the Senate Committee on Government Operations, sending the bill to the Governor’s desk for consideration. With strong support of the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Vermont Federation of Dog Clubs (VT Federation), and others, amended H. 626 would: Establish a Division […]

While seizure disorders can benefit from diazepam (Valium) for dogs, there are other treatment options available. Talk to your veterinarian.

On Tuesday, May 14, a New York Senate Committee will consider a bill that will allow responsible dog owners more opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities and socialization with their well-behaved pets, while still protecting and respecting the ability of all New Yorkers to enjoy state parks. New York residents, and those who enjoy traveling and/or […]

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) today released a letter advising of a change in the rules pertaining to importation of cats and dogs into the United States. Effective August 1, 2024, the CDC is implementing a process to standardize imports that will require that all dogs being imported into the U.S. […]

Traveling on the subway with your pup? Here's how to prepare your dog for a safe ride and where to look for public transit rules and regulations.

Canine Ambassadors are an excellent resource! They are experts in a variety of areas. Canine Ambassadors are skilled at teaching about safety around dogs and responsible dog ownership and some have vast knowledge about dog events. Many Canine Ambassadors are also judges, groomers, handlers, trainers and more! Best of all, Canine Ambassadors are experts on […]

Here you can access a list of AKC Government Relations resources available to help you be effective advocates for responsible dog ownership and breeding! Be sure to check back often, as we are continuously adding new items.  If you have any questions about these materials, or are dealing with a canine legislation issue, please contact […]

Dogs can eat curly parsley, Italian parsley can be toxic to dogs. When adding anything to your dog's diet, talk to their veterinarian first.

Holidays with fireworks cause lots of loud noises, which can cause dog anxiety. Learn how to keep your dog calm during fireworks.

Fleas are parasites that carry disease and feed on the blood of the host animal. One alternative to flea medication is Diatomaceous Earth.

Does your puppy refuse to go on walks? Here's how to leash-train your puppy and get them interested in walking.

Moving to a new home is exciting yet stressful, and that stress is particularly strong for dogs. All their familiar sights and smells are upended, and moving day is busy and hectic – not to mention the loss of routine as you stage and show your old home. All that change can be downright traumatic […]

As part of the AKC Canine Good Citizen test, there are 10 essential skills that every dog should master. Here are the test items.

When the flowers start to bloom and spring fever strikes, you'll want to make sure you and your dog are ready. Luckily, there are steps you can take to ensure that this lovely season is an enjoyable and safe one. Spring Health Preventatives for Dogs Spring checkups are a great time to check to see […]

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 honor the U.S. Capitol Police (USCP) K-9 Unit with the AKC Canine Officer Program Award. The AKC Canine Officer program was designed to recognize the extraordinary work that dogs in a public service […]

The AKC Canine Good Citizen test isn't just another title to add to your dog's collection. It also helps build crucial life and obedience skills.

Purebred dogs are symbols of the people and places that brought them into being. Every year, they're celebrated on National Purebred Dog Day.

Don't shave your dog, as it might make them hotter in summer and creates health risks. Instead, try these grooming and safety tips to keep them cool.

To view other Pee Wee photos click here. If you have a Pee Wee photo you would like to share, please send to: juniors@akc.org [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Procedures and Guidelines"] A Club must submit a Special Attractions Form to conduct the Pee Wee Class Special Attraction. The request must be approved by the Event Operations department. The […]

Two dog-related bills garner continued consideration in the Massachusetts General Court. The American Kennel Club (AKC) encourages Massachusetts residents to: Review and identify any concerns with the re-drafted and favorably released bills known as “Ollie’s Law;” and Contact your legislators in opposition to 826, banning new pet retail sales of dogs, cats, and rabbits. TO […]

Two dog-related bills continue to advance in the Vermont General Assembly. The American Kennel Club (AKC) encourages Vermont residents to contact legislators on the following issues. HOUSE BILL 626 – ESTABLISHES DIVISION OF ANIMAL WELFARE Amended H. 626 would establish a Division of Animal Welfare at the Department of Public Safety, which will be charged […]

It's estimated that 5-10% of dogs in the United States are deaf. Why does deafness in dogs occur, and how is it different from hearing loss?

Why do dogs crawl under the covers? For some dogs, it's a burrowing instinct. For others, it's a fear and anxiety-driven behavior.

[accordion] [accordion_panel title="All-Breed/Specialty Conflicts (September 2013 Board meeting; amended January 2016)"] If an All-Breed/Limited Breed Conformation, Performance, or Companion Event club refuses to grant permission to accommodate a Parent Club's National Specialty or a Performance or Companion event (which is limited to the Parent Club breed) when held with the National Specialty, a Parent Club regional specialty […]

The California legislative session is in full swing and AKC Government Relations (AKC GR) continues to track many bills of interest to dog owners. In addition, we will continue to watch for any amendments or other actions that could affect responsible dog ownership. The following are current statuses of bills that AKC GR is following, […]