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Expert Advice: Home & Living
Household Hazards for Dogs: Beware of These Potentially Dangerous Items
Keep your dog safe by learning which household items could be extremely harmful to them. Make sure to keep these safely away from your pet.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/home-living/household-hazards-poisons-for-dogs/
| March 19, 2018
Expert Advice: General Health
Dog Skincare: Taking Care of Your Dog’s Skin
Regularly bathing your dog, brushing their coat, and feeding them a balanced diet is all part of a balanced skincare routine.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-skincare/
| February 21, 2025
Expert Advice: Health
Sepsis in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, Treatments
When germs like bacteria and viruses enter a dog's body, they can cause an infection. If the infection reaches the bloodstream, it can set off a chain...
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/sepsis-in-dogs/
| February 21, 2025
Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
2024’s Most Popular Dog Breeds by City
The top dog breeds have been crowned nationally for 2024! See the most popular dog breeds by city to see where your favorite breed ranks.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/most-popular-dog-breeds-by-city-2024/
| March 18, 2025
Expert Advice: News
The Most Popular Dog Breeds of 2024
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!
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/most-popular-dog-breeds-2024/
| March 18, 2025
Expert Advice: Common Conditions
Can Dogs Get Hemorrhoids?
Although dogs don't get hemorrhoids, they can have problems with their anus and rectum, just like people can. Learn what signs to watch for.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/can-dogs-get-hemorrhoids/
| October 12, 2022
Expert Advice: Health
Vaginitis in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, Treatments
Just as your puppy is getting used to potty training, they may be urinating more than usual or having accidents. This could be caused by vaginitis in dogs.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/vaginitis-in-dogs/
| April 3, 2025
Expert Advice: Breeding Tips & Best Practices
The Reproductive Cycle in Dogs: From Breeding to Birthing
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 […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeding/dog-reproductive-cycle/
| May 3, 2021
Expert Advice: Dog Behavior
The Importance of Small Breed Puppy Socialization
When you bring home a small breed puppy, it's important to begin socializing that puppy early on to set them up for success throughout their life.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/socialize-small-dogs/
| April 25, 2025
Expert Advice: Puppy Information
Answer These 5 Questions to Find the Right Dog For You
You’ve made the decision to welcome a new dog into your family. Now comes the fun part – finding the perfect dog. There’s a lot to consider. Before you commit, ask yourself these five questions. What’s Your Schedule? Think about your lifestyle. Do you work long hours? Struggle to get out the door in the […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/puppy-information/answer-5-questions-find-right-dog/
| November 2, 2017
Expert Advice: Dog Sports
How to Watch the 2025 AKC National Agility Championship
Agility is a fast-growing dog sport that showcases the power of the human-canine bond. As the handler directs the dog through a predetermined obstacle course, the team races against the clock to finish the agility course with as few mistakes as possible. On March 13-16, competitors zoomed through courses at the 2025 AKC National Agility […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/sports/how-to-watch-akc-national-agility-championship/
| March 9, 2023
Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
Boston Terrier History: From Stylish American Dog to Fabulous Family Pet
You may know the Boston Terrier for their distinct round head — which has granted them the nickname "Roundhead." They're actually a relatively new breed: they were developed mainly int he 20th century. From England to the United States Their journey begins in 1847, at the Burnett House in Southborough, Massachusetts. That 13-bedroom French Empire mansion […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/boston-terrier-history/
| January 28, 2021
Expert Advice: Nutrition
Can Dogs Eat Hamburgers?
Right now you may be at a cookout with your dog, wondering: Can dogs eat hamburger? Here's what to know before you give your dog a bite.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-hamburger/
| June 24, 2021
Expert Advice: General Health
You’ve Come a Long Way, Puppy: Pet Technology Grows Up
Ten years ago, the GPS in your car was a dash-mounted brick that might just steer you into a detention pond, but now directional navigation consists of a soothing voice providing real-time traffic updates and restaurant recommendations. The tech in human gadgets has improved dramatically, and GPS gear for man's best friend has followed suit. […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/pet-technology-grows-up/
| April 4, 2017
Expert Advice: AKC Family Dog
For Hogan the Parkour Frenchie, All the World’s an Agility Course
It happens fast, and he makes it look easy. "Hit it!" says Bea Page, and with a running start, Hogan the French Bulldog begins his sprint into parkour.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/family-dog/hogan-parkour-french-bulldog/
| July 9, 2025
Expert Advice: Breeding Tips & Best Practices
Puppy Socialization Starts with the Breeder: Early Neurological Stimulation
Socializing puppies has traditionally been considered the responsibility of the new owner. Breeders instruct them to take the puppy to classes and make sure they are exposed to a variety of people and situations. But more research shows that encouraging a stable temperament can start even before puppies are born. Breeders can do a lot […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeding/breeder-puppy-socialization-early-neurological-stimulation/
| April 13, 2021
Expert Advice: Nutrition
Can Dogs Eat Hot Dogs?
Cookouts are fun for the whole family and the smells are sure to allure your dog. But can dogs eat hot dogs? Here's what to do if your dog snags one.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-hot-dogs/
| June 23, 2021
Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
Thinking of a New Dog? These Breeds are Great Dogs for Seniors
Whether we're young or old, dogs are great company. Seniors deciding what breed dog to add to their life, should consider lifestyle and physical ability.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/dog-breeds-for-seniors/
| July 23, 2025
Expert Advice: Dog Gear & Accessories
Choosing the Right Collar for Your Dog
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?
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/choosing-right-dog-collar/
| June 26, 2024
Expert Advice: Common Conditions
Pancreatitis in Dogs: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
The pancreas plays an important role in digestion. When this organ becomes inflamed, it's called pancreatitis. The warning signs of pancreatitis aren't always obvious. Your dog might throw up a few times in a day or seem lethargic. Or they might be lying down and refusing to eat. Not even their favorite treat can get […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/pancreatitis-in-dogs/
| February 22, 2021
Expert Advice: Nutrition
Does Dog Food Expire? How to Know If Your Pet’s Food Has Gone Bad
Does dog food expire? Learn about the best ways to store different kinds dog food, keep your dog's food fresh, and feed your dog safely.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/does-dog-food-expire/
| July 25, 2025
Pages
Most Popular Dog Breeds
Every year the American Kennel Club releases our ranking of the most popular dog breeds based on AKC registration statistics for the previous year. The French Bulldog continues to top the rankings at the No. 1 spot for the third year in a row. The Labrador Retriever, who had a 31-year run as the most […]
https://www.akc.org/most-popular-breeds/
| March 15, 2022
Pages
Breed-Specific DNA Testing Recommendations
Test for what is recommended for your breed. Order AKC DNA + Health Kit The AKC DNA Program recommends that breeders perform DNA tests that are relevant to their breed. The AKC DNA + Health Kit includes over 328 markers for health and traits, and every dog receives results for all tests. However, not all […]
https://www.akc.org/breeder-programs/dna/dna-resource-center/akc-dna-health/breed-specific-dna-testing-recommendations/
| March 12, 2024
Pages
List of Breeds by Group
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. […]
https://www.akc.org/public-education/resources/general-tips-information/dog-breeds-sorted-groups/
| August 25, 2015
Pages
FSS Breeds In Companion Events
As of July 13, 2009, the AKC Board of Directors approved the eligibility of Foundation Stock breeds that meet the below criteria may compete in AKC Companion Events; this will be effective January 1, 2010. Dogs with three-generation pedigrees recorded in FSS® Breed Standard has been submitted As of February 9, 2007, the AKC Board […]
https://www.akc.org/breeder-programs/foundation-stock-service-program/fss-breeds-companion-events/
| November 17, 2017
Pages
AKC DNA + Health Kit – Included Tests
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 […]
https://www.akc.org/breeder-programs/dna/dna-resource-center/akc-dna-health/akc-dna-health-kit-included-tests/
| March 12, 2024
Pages
AKC Breeds Broken Out By Group
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, […]
https://www.akc.org/akc-breeds-by-group/
| December 23, 2024
Press Releases
AMERICA HAS SPOKEN! FRENCH BULLDOG REMAINS THE MOST PUP-ULAR BREED FOR THE THIRD CONSECUTIVE YEAR
It’s a three-peat for the French Bulldog! The American Kennel Club (AKC®), a not-for-profit organization, the world’s largest purebred dog registry and leading advocate for dogs, announced this morning that the beloved French Bulldog is America’s most popular breed for the third year in a row, according to AKC registration statistics. While the playful and […]
https://www.akc.org/press-releases/america-spoken-french-bulldog-remains-pup-ular-breed-third-consecutive-year/
| March 18, 2025
Press Releases
2025 NATIONAL ALL-BREED PUPPY & JUNIOR STAKES JUDGING PANEL NOW AVAILABLE
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 […]
https://www.akc.org/press-releases/2025-national-breed-puppy-junior-stakes-judging-panel-now-available/
| April 3, 2025
Sports & Events
Conformation: Frequently Asked Questions
Scheduling Conformation Events General Questions Points Schedule Formulation Specialties Held With All-Breed and Group Shows Classes and Entries Submitting Results Awards and Titles Judges and Judging Junior Showmanship Sweepstakes Trophies, Prizes, and Ribbons Club Membership Upload Tool Scheduling Conformation Events AKC recommended Best Practices to hire and assign judges, leading to an efficient schedule. General […]
https://www.akc.org/sports/conformation/resources/faq/
| October 26, 2017