Thousands of dogs compete at the Westminster Kennel Club Best in Show. Check out some statistics on the breeds and groups who've taken the trophy.

Whether they're silent but deadly or startlingly loud and smelly, dog farts are something that no one wants to deal with. Not only are these farts embarrassing for you and your guests, they indicate that your dog could be in pain from excess gas. While the occasional gaseous emission from your pooch is a normal and […]

Breeders and handlers are a study in contrasts. Breeders are big-picture and behind-the-scenes, planning and studying for the future. Handlers, meanwhile,  are front and center, focused on the competition at hand and those split-second moments that can make or break a win. And of course, we all know what dog owners do. Sometimes, those three […]

The 2019 AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin on Dec. 14 and 15 had a record number of dogs in its 19th year. The competition began with 5,284 dogs each competing for best in their breed. Best in Group Best of Breed winners then advanced to compete in the group competitions. Each AKC-recognized breed falls […]

The American Kennel Club recognizes many breeds, and each possesses a purpose-bred set of physical and behavioral characteristics. Purebred dogs within each of the seven AKC breed groups are expected to conform to a particular breed standard. One of the more identifiable elements of a canine breed standard is temperament. Temperament has been defined as an animal’s […]

Adding a puppy to your family is a big decision that comes with lots of preparation. One thing you may not be prepared for is an interview with your prospective puppy's breeder. Responsible breeders want to place puppies with families that are a great match for the dog, so these interviews help both breeders and […]

The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) is pleased to announce the judging panel for the 2020 AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin to be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida on Saturday, December 12 and Sunday, December 13, 2020. The 2020 event will showcase the top canine athletes and will also […]

Calling all puppy lovers! The American Kennel Club (AKC®) is excited to announce the newest group of puppies for its “AKC Puppy Pack,” which will feature three puppies training for work that will transform the lives of their human companions - what’s better than that? The AKC will follow the endearing stories of all eight […]

[accordion] [accordion_panel title="News"] 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 June 1, 2024  FAQ's on the Judging Approval Process (PDF) Rules Policies and Guidelines for Conformation Dog Show Judges (PDF) Previous Review & FAQ's on Conformation Judging Procedures, […]

Hoping to meet a specific dog breed when you visit AKC Meet the Breeds during AKC National Championship in Orlando? Or maybe you just want to meet them all! Don't miss a single wag or woof with this list of breeds that will be in attendance at the 2019 show. Get your tickets now. Dog Breeds […]