Accepted into AKC in 1885, the Saint Bernard swiftly rose to the position of the most popular dog of the 1890s. To this day, it is the only giant breed to secure the country’s top position as well as the only number-one breed to never appear in the top ten again. In later decades, two […]

With a serious expression, muscular build, and massive head, the Dogue de Bordeaux is an impressive breed. But the DDB also makes a loving and devoted companion. Here's what to know about this breed. 1. The DDB Is a Devoted Companion This dog makes an excellent companion, deeply devoted to their owners. They're calm, affectionate, […]

There are so many books about dogs that a dog-loving reader could spend years engrossed in them. Here are the ones you won't want to miss and some worth trying. Such a short list is bound to omit someone's favorite. What are some of the books you would recommend to other dog lovers? Classics for […]

The humble potato is the key ingredient in French fries, hash browns, tater tots, and many other essential comfort foods. When prepared in a healthy way, white potatoes can be a nutritious food for humans, but can dogs eat potatoes? The answer is: it depends. Potatoes aren't categorically toxic to dogs, like grapes or onions. […]

If you're looking for a medium-sized hunting hound who's sociable, courageous, and intelligent, consider the Basset Fauve de Bretagne.

For decades after the Revolutionary War, America had been trying to secure a treaty of commerce with Turkey. In the spring of 1831, President Andrew Jackson sent an unlikely man to solve the problem. The proud and inflexible Commodore David Porter was a 50-year-old naval hero, who had fought in the First Barbary War, the […]

A hunting dog that doesn't compromise a bit of cuteness, the Beagle is a happy-go-lucky, loyal breed. They are known to be friendly, curious, and irresistibly adorable thanks to their floppy ears, unique coats, and pouty faces. The Beagle makes for the perfect picture of a traditional hound dog and has been a favorite breed […]

The adorable Bichon Frise is among the canine kingdom’s great survivors, relying on charm and intelligence to weather history’s ups and downs.

The shaggy Old English Sheepdog is a lovable pet, but they're also a hard worker and smart companion. Here are some facts you may not know about the breed.

Dogs that can be considered of medium size can be found in most of the AKC’s seven groups. Whether it’s the energetic Shetland Sheepdog, the sporty spaniels, or the laid back Bulldog, there is a range of temperament and appearance within this size category. When considering getting a dog, size is a factor, but only […]

In 2014, DreamWorks Animation announced that it was putting Lassie on the comeback trail, but not in the way you might think. “We realized that Lassie has an authenticity that makes her a merchandising holy grail,” DreamWorks executive Michael Francis crowed to The New York Times. Francis (the man behind Target’s fabulously successful Bull Terrier […]

The loyal Briard, also known as the "Chien Berger de Brie," is a strong and powerful sheepherding dog, originally from France. Fans of the breed call the dynamic and alert Briard "a heart wrapped in fur." Here are some interesting facts about this member of the Herding Group that will have you calling yourself a […]

Papillon celebrates 100 years in AKC Stud Book In 1915 the AKC registered an itty-bitty dog named Joujou, its first Papillon. In the 10 decades since, the small breed with the big ears has beguiled American owners with its sunny personality and surprising athleticism. This year we welcome the Papillon, along with the Flat-Coated Retriever, as […]

Growing up in Michigan, Cindy followed her grandmother around whelping and caring for several different kinds of babies - puppies, kittens, peeps, and various other farm animals. The retired nurse studied canine genetics at Michigan State University and says she inherited her love for breeding and training  from her family. Hartman now lives in South […]

Some dog breeds are easy to say. Others, like the Nederlandse Kooikerhondje, are trickier. Learn proper ways to pronounce tough breed names.

The Poodle's fluffed and coiffed coat, coupled with the breed's spirited intelligence, and passion for a good swim explains the Poodle's popularity.

One of the oldest herding dogs bred in France, the Berger Picard has a rich history. Learn more about the breed with these Berger Picard fun facts.

What you see isn’t always what you get when purchasing a puppy. It will sometimes evolve into a surprise package like Loupy – and even a lifesaver. The fawn-colored, 54-pound Berger Picard was purchased almost seven years ago by Wadia Mulla and her husband, Steve Pahides, of Media, Pa., after the family’s Labradoodle died at […]

Originally bred as hunting companions, pointing breeds excel at tracking upland game for their owners. So which dogs are pointers, and what did they originally do?

Adrienne Scott is an AKC Breeder of Merit who has realized a lifelong dream in her small hobby kennel, Prairie Crest Beaucerons, of Maysville, Missouri, devoted to preserving the centuries-old Beauceron breed. She has produced many champions and, through health testing, improving temperaments, and structure, she strives to produce the best Beaucerons possible. Adrienne has traveled […]

Following the devastating announcement that the annual Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade had been canceled, the community banded together to ensure its return in 2018 with a successful crowdfunding campaign. At the final hour, the fest was brought back, and all rejoiced-- after all, what would Halloween in New York even be like without this […]

When it comes to their canine soldiers, Britain’s 105 Military Working Dog Squadron (MWDS) knows that the best protective equipment is essential, even during training. In a recent video by the MWDS, a dog is outfitted with personal protection equipment, including ear defenders, goggles, a reflective collar, and booties. This English Springer Spaniel is among […]

Chihuahuas are a beloved breed who are known for their loyal and loving nature toward their owners, their tenacious spirit and, yes, their diminutive frame. But while small in size — they're actually one of the smallest recognized dog breeds — Chihuahuas are sure to get themselves noticed and be heard. So, if you have […]

German Shepherd Dogs are marked by their smarts, confidence, and unshakable bravery. While the breed is all of those powerful things, they are also graceful, gentle souls who can be a great match for the right family. Like with any pet though, it's important to fully understand a breed's specific needs and personality before bringing […]

for more information about foreign registries or the foreign registration process, please visit https://www.akc.org/rules/special-registry-services/ ALG Algeria AMS American Samoa ADR Andorra ANT Antigua ARG Argentina ARB Aruba AUS Australia AST Austria AZE Azerbaijan AZR Azores BAH Bahamas BRN Bahrain BAN Bangladesh BAR Barbados BLR Belarus BEL Belgium BLZ Belize BER Bermuda BOL Bolivia BOS Bosnia BRA […]

At the annual meeting of the American Kennel Club on March 11, 2025, the Delegates elected members to the AKC Board of Directors. The Directors elected were: Class of 2029 Dr. Thomas M. Davies, Delegate, Springfield Kennel Club, Inc. Eduardo T. Fugiwara, Delegate, Two Cities Kennel Club Robin Stansell, Delegate, French Bull Dog Club of […]

Three Breeds Gain Full AKC Recognition The American Kennel Club® is pleased to welcome the Irish Red and White Setter, the Pyrenean Shepherd and the Norwegian Buhund as the 159th, 160th, and the 161st AKC® registered breeds. The Irish Red and White Setter will join the Sporting Group while both the Pyrenean Shepherd and the […]

The New Castle County Council will vote next Tuesday, March 14th, on an ordinance to restrict "pit bulls." The measure, authored by Councilman Jea P. Street, defines "pit bulls" as Staffordshire Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, American Pit Bull Terriers and any dog displaying the physical characteristics of these breeds. The measure will require owners […]

Big congratulations to these All American Dogs who turned in stellar performances at the AKC National Agility Championship! The event was held at the Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter in Perry, Georgia, March 14-17, 2024. You can watch the fun here. 12-inch Regular 1st Place: NAC MACH2 Quicksilver Cherry On Top MXS PAD MJG PJD […]

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