Each of the AKC registered breeds are assigned to one of seven groups representing characteristics and functions the breeds were originally bred for. Current as of June 17, 2025 [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Herding Group"] HERDING GROUP The Herding Group, created in 1983, is the newest AKC classification; its members were formerly members of the Working Group. […]

Order AKC DNA + Health Kit Activate AKC DNA Kit DNA Resource Center All AKC DNA + Health Kits include: The AKC DNA Profile of 201 markers for genetic identity and parentage verification purposes 328 genetic variants for health and traits, including coat color Results are delivered by our trusted service provider (Neogen) with the […]

The following are the group designations that AKC breeds have been assigned. There are currently 202 breeds and 9 breeds with 21 varieties.  The varieties are by size, color or group.   The varieties are marked by **(Revised 1/01/25) [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Sporting Group – 33 breeds"] Sporting Group Naturally active and alert, Sporting dogs make likeable, […]

The American Kennel Club is opposed to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. In solidarity with Ukrainian people, judges from the Russian Federation will not be approved to judge at AKC sanctioned events. *UPDATE: Dogs born in Russia that have been exported to other countries, with registries recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and registered in […]

The AKC currently registers 205 dog breeds. The chart below lists all AKC recognized breeds and the year they first became registrable with the AKC.  (last updated 1/1/26) DATE – BREED 1878 – Pointer  1878 – Retriever (Chesapeake Bay)  1878 – Spaniel (Clumber)  1878 – Spaniel (Cocker)  1878 – Setter (English)  1878 – Setter (Gordon)  […]

Season 11 - Fall Season 2025 [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Extended Ph.D."] Top 3 Teams Champion – Living the Agility Dream – Tennessee Reserve Champion – Naughty Spots – Virginia Third – Let’s Play TAG – North Carolina Individual Dog Placements by Jump Height (1st – 4th) 8-inch Regular 1st – Sundae, Papillon, Naughty Spots 2nd – Waldo, All American […]

German Pinscher Learn about German Pinschers [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Rescue Organizations"] German Pinscher Club of America [/accordion_panel] [/accordion] German Shepherd Dog Learn about German Shepherd Dogs [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Rescue Organizations"] German Shepherd Dog Club of America German Shepherd Resource and Rescue Center P.O. Box 57 Hathorne, MA 01937 Contact: Stephanie, Info@germanshepherdcenter.org Austin German Shepherd Dog Rescue Blue […]

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  1/14/26, last updated 1/15/26) [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Platinum"] […]

Blue eyes in Siberian Huskies are caused by a different genetic mutation than the one seen in other blue-eyed dog breeds. So what makes them blue?

Kim Berkley and her Border Collies "Zayne" and "Zuko" are household names in obedience. But Berkley actually got her start in horse dressage.

The right dog collar isn't just a fashion choice; it should be safe, secure, and comfortable. So what goes into choosing the right dog collar?

Looking for the perfect name for your new puppy? Consider some of the most famous dog names from movies, TV shows, and history.

Can dogs eat bell peppers? Learn if bell peppers are safe for dogs, their health benefits, and how to serve them properly.

It's easy to panic when you see something on your dog's eye, especially if it's a large pink or reddish bump, which could be cherry eye in dogs.

Learn how to calculate dog years into human years with this helpful chart, and find out how researchers came up with the numbers.

Hip dysplasia is a common condition in dogs. Learn what to know about hip dysplasia including symptoms, treatment options, and preventative measures.

Just like their owners, dogs are susceptible to minor injuries and are not immune to getting cuts, scrapes, or burns. But can you use Neosporin® on dogs?

Giant dogs are some of the hardest-working and most recognizable breeds. But because many of them maintain the strong working instincts and drive they were bred for, they can be a lot to handle. Here are some things to keep in mind if you're considering adding one to your family. Maturation Giant dogs are giant […]

Cooling mats and other similar products for dogs intend to provide relief and prevent heatstroke on hot days. Many rely on pressure-activated gel.

Here’s a newcomer’s guide to the basics of watching a dog obedience competition — including a breakdown of classes and scoring. 

Never mind the Mouse. In December, Orlando is all about the dog. Actually, make that plural: Dogs–thousands of them, from tiny Chihuahuas to ginormous Great Danes–stream into Florida to compete in the American Kennel Club's annual flagship event, the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin. But if you're never attended before, you might just […]

Puppies are exciting. However, any experienced breeder will tell you they're also a lot of work. A responsible breeder prepares long in advance—to identify the purpose of the breeding; to carefully plan and research the breed, the standard, the health history, and available healthy males of good temperament; to form partnerships with their veterinarians and […]

When it comes to choosing the right dog breed for you and your family, there are a lot of different things to consider. Temperament, exercise needs, size, and maintenance are all important aspects of your decision. Some people prefer a lower-maintenance breed, which often means that the dogs require little grooming. Of course, regular baths […]

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

Learn about the signs and management options for megaesophagus in dogs, an esophageal condition that causes regurgitation and associated complications.

Titles Earned in AKC Activities, Organized by Sport and Title Progression the # symbol behind the title abbreviation indicates that title can be earned multiple times, and will carry a numeric designation [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Agility Titles"] Class Abbrev. Title Name Abbrev. Title Name (Preferred Track) Prefix or Suffix ACT ACT1 Agility Course Test 1 Suffix […]

2nd AKC International Sweepstakes Championship Williamson County AG Expo Park Franklin, TN October 25 & 26, 2025   News and Updates:     [caption id="attachment_208748" align="aligncenter" width="636"] ISC Champions 2026Photo Credit: Great Dane Photos[/caption]  

[caption id="attachment_209990" align="alignnone" width="481"] Photo by Great Dane Photos[/caption] The 15th AKC Junior Agility Competition sponsored by Eukanuba and held in conjunction with the 2025 AKC National Championship presented by Royal Canin   Orange County Convention Center Orlando, FL Friday, December 12, 2025   News and Updates: 12/5/2025 - List of Vendors at the AKC National Championship […]

The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) is pleased to announce the judging panel for the 25th AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin to be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida on Saturday, December 13 and Sunday, December 14, 2025. The 2025 event will showcase the top canine athletes and will also […]

Canine Good Citizen®, AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy® and/or AKC Community Canine℠ An AKC club near you can provide you and your dog with training classes and testing for AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy, CGC and AKC Community Canine. You will be able to earn official AKC titles in Canine Good Citizen (the "CGC" title) and AKC Community Canine […]