On September 17, the American Kennel Club® (AKC) proudly celebrated its 140th anniversary, honoring its profound impact on the lives of dogs and their owners. The milestone was marked by illuminating the Helmsley building in New York in vibrant blue and hosting a special reception at the U.S. Capitol for members of Congress and Congressional staff featuring a mini Meet the Breeds event. Among the standout canine participants was Mercedes, a German Shepherd known for her victories at major dog shows, including the AKC National Championship and Westminster Kennel Club.
The Capitol event served as a focal point for AKC’s year-long efforts to advocate for the welfare of dogs and promote responsible breeding practices, reaffirming their commitment to more than 200 unique breeds. AKC President and CEO Dennis Sprung emphasized the organization’s ongoing evolution while staying true to its founding principles. “As we celebrate our 140th anniversary, the AKC continues to evolve with the times while respecting the traditions it was founded upon,” he stated.
Among the notable moments was Congressman David Rouzer’s (NC-7) introduction of House Resolution 541, which honors the AKC for its contributions to dog welfare and recognizes its influence nationwide. “For 140 years, the American Kennel Club has provided for the wellbeing of dogs in North Carolina and across the country,” remarked Rouzer.
Another highlight was the presentation of the AKC 2024 Legislator of the Year award to Congressman G.T. Thompson (PA-15). Thompson acknowledged the AKC’s leadership in promoting responsible dog ownership and pledged to continue advocating for animal welfare without falling prey to emotional arguments often presented by animal rights activists.
The celebration included discussions with lawmakers, local advocacy initiatives, and remarks from various congressional leaders who praised the AKC’s long-standing dedication. Congressman Don Davis (NC-1) noted the profound educational and advocacy impact of the AKC over the years, emphasizing hope for the future of dogs.
In addition to the anniversary celebrations, the AKC continues to enhance community engagement through events such as the “Paws Under the Oaks” festival hosted by the Mississippi Gulf Coast Kennel Club, which featured educational programs, contests, and demonstrations. Furthermore, recent initiatives such as the Patriotic Puppy Program are expanding training opportunities across regions, exemplifying AKC’s commitment to continuous improvement in canine excellence.
AKC Government Relations continues to emphasize the importance of advocacy, encouraging community involvement at local, state, and federal levels to protect the rights of responsible breeders and dog owners at events such as the 2024 AKC Master National and the Pennsylvania Animal Welfare & Safety (PAWS) Pet Breeders Expo.
As the AKC looks forward to the future, our commitment to advocating for canine welfare, responsible dog ownership, and preserving our breeds remains as strong as ever. The 140th anniversary is not just a celebration of the past; it is a promise of continued advocacy and support for dogs and their dedicated owners across America.