After confirming that your dog is healthy, the following tips can help you prevent and clean tear stains from your dog's face.

The American Kennel Club is the world's largest registry of purebred dogs, and uses these statistics to rank the most popular breeds — and the rarest breeds. The numbers are in: these are the rarest dog breeds according to AKC registration statistics. In 2025, 202 total breeds were counted in the registration statistics. In 2026, […]

Dealing with eye boogers might not be the most pleasant part of pet ownership. However, learning when and how to clean your dog's eyes, especially if they're a breed prone to tear staining or discharge, can help keep them comfortable and prevent problems like eye infections from developing. In This Article When Eye Cleaning Is Needed How […]

Calm dog breeds can make great companions and therapy dogs. While any dog can be easy going, these breeds are known to be laid-back.

The American Kennel Club has released registration statistics for 2025. Who will be crowned the most popular breed?

Bringing a dog into your life is a big choice. If you're considering getting a Pekingese, here's what you should know.

Have you ever heard of "Chaser," the Border Collie? She learned over 1,000 proper nouns throughout her life, including the names of hundreds and hundreds of toys. She was amazing! But are there other dogs that can learn to label their toys like that? It turns out there are. Known as Gifted Word Learners (GWL), […]

Based on American Kennel Club registration statistics, we rank the most popular dog breeds in America each year. The French Bulldog takes the No. 1 spot!

If you're looking for the perfect at-home companion, consider the Shih Tzu. This loving, playful, and outgoing breed is known for being good with kids.

Although their precise origins are unknown, the Shih Tzu undoubtedly descended from lion-like Tibetan holy dogs and has existed for centuries.

For the complete requirements for eligibility, download the Special Registry Services booklet on the Rules and Regulations page. You may also find helpful information by visiting our Frequently Asked Questions. Foreign Dogs may be eligible for registration in the AKC Stud Book, provided: The dog is of a breed eligible for individual registration in the […]

The AKC Archives preserves and provides access to historically significant records documenting the sport of purebred dogs in the United States. The Archives are organized into four major collecting areas: Clubs (AKC Parent Clubs and select Member Clubs) People (influential individuals in the sport) AKC Administrative Records Visual Materials (photographs and other graphic formats) In […]

The following breeders have met the requirements for the Breed and Levels recorded at the time of the application. The American Kennel Club is pleased to recognize these breeders for their contribution to the sport and maintaining the tenets of the Breeder of Merit program. (current as of  7/16/26, last updated 7/17/26) [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Platinum"] […]

[accordion] [accordion] [accordion_panel title="2026"] Below you will find recording links and resources for webinars that aired in 2026. Once you click the recording link, you will be asked to enter your name and email address in order to access the recording. Webinar Topic Recording Link Review & FAQ’s on Conformation Judging Procedures, Policies & Guidelines […]

The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) is pleased to announce the judging panel for the AKC Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy and Junior Stakes to be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida in conjunction with the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin. The AKC Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy and Junior […]

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 […]

[accordion] [accordion_panel title="News"] Peruvian Inca Orchid Eligible to Compete in the Hound Group, January 1, 2027 AKC Educational Requirements Policy and Recommendations [/accordion_panel] [/accordion] [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Rules, Policies & Procedures"] Judging Approval Process - effective January 1, 2018, amended effective November 12, 2025  FAQ's on the Judging Approval Process (PDF) Rules Policies and Guidelines for […]

The AKC Outstanding Sportsmanship Award Program was established in 2006 to provide each AKC Member Club with an embossed AKC medallion to award on a yearly basis as an ongoing effort to celebrate its volunteer club members. This award honors those individuals who deserve special recognition that have made a difference in the Sport of […]