The AKC’s Canine Good Citizen program is the gold standard of behavior for dogs in our communities. Almost one million dogs, both purebred and mixed breed, have participated in the program since it began in 1989. Canine Good Citizen is part of the AKC Family Dog Program and many dog owners choose CGC as their […]

Below Are Links To The AKC Rules And Regulations That Are Available. [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Board Policy Manual"] AKC Board Policy Manual [/accordion_panel] [accordion_panel title="Clubs"] Charter and Bylaws of the AKC (PDF) Const and Bylaws: All-Breed; Specialty (PDF) Const and Bylaws: Performance Clubs (PDF) Formation of Dog Clubs (PDF) Working it Out -- AKC® Guidelines for Resolving Dog Club Issues […]

[accordion] [accordion_panel title="All-Breed/Specialty Conflicts (September 2013 Board meeting; amended January 2016)"] If an All-Breed/Limited Breed Conformation, Performance, or Companion Event club refuses to grant permission to accommodate a Parent Club's National Specialty or a Performance or Companion event (which is limited to the Parent Club breed) when held with the National Specialty, a Parent Club regional specialty […]

Virtual monthly webinar learning experiences created by breeders for breeders. Join renowned experts in these educational opportunities for breeders! 2026 Schedule Wednesday, September 30, 2026 6:00 – 7:30 pm (EST) “Prepaid Registration Made Easy with AKC Breeder Toolkit” Presented by the AKC BRET Team Discover a smarter way to register your puppies and see why […]

  Want to get involved with AKC sports and events -- but your dog is a mixed breed? No problem! Here at the AKC, we embrace all types of dogs – purebred and mixed breeds alike. Our Canine Partners program is our enrollment program for mixed breeds and other dogs not eligible for AKC Purebred Registration. When […]

Ready to register your mixed breed dog or other dog not eligible for AKC Purebred Registration in the AKC Canine Partners Program? It’s easy to enroll -- and before you know it, you and your dog will be able to participate in some of our most popular dog sports, earn title recognition, sign up for our […]

Pica is a condition where your dog eats non-food items like stones or dirt. Learn about the many causes and treatments for this dangerous behavior.

Has your dog ever come across an animal carcass or a pile of poop, then gleefully rolled in it? Many dogs delight in rolling in dead things, garbage, and other smelly items. It’s not only disgusting, but it’s also confusing. Why do dogs roll in stinky stuff? Is it canine communication, an attempt to disguise […]

Can dogs eat eggs? Learn how to safely incorporate eggs into your dog's diet, usually as an occasional treat.

We break down the basics of AKC Rally, a sport centered around teamwork that requires a handler and their dog to complete a series of specific skills.

A common question we hear from dog lovers is "Does the AKC like mixed breeds?" The AKC stands for the love of all things dog, including mixed breeds.

"Cinder," a black Labrador Retriever, was always a fun-loving, joyful dog. Her owner, Terry Ellison, describes her as "my silly, happy, bouncy girl."...

Making friends in a new city can be challenging. But dogs often make that transition easier by sparking conversations, encouraging shared routines, and helping owners feel more connected. Research and real-life experiences show that dogs can boost confidence, improve mental well-being, and open doors to friendships and even romance. In This Article How Dogs Expand […]

Fish itself isn't harmful to dogs, but the way we prepare it can cause problems. If you want to add fish to your dog's diet, here's what you need to know.

Food poisoning is more common in dogs than many owners realize. While usually not life-threatening, it can lead to serious complications in some cases.

Dogs give us unconditional love. Learn how to return the favor with activities and habits that support your dog's health and happiness.

Roberta Hill and her Treeing Walker Coonhound "Toddie" came into each others' lives by accident. But their bond has been nothing short of exceptional since.

Traveling with your dog? Discover dog-friendly hotel chains, pet policies, and travel tips to help make your next trip more comfortable.

Rescuing a dog is exciting but can also feel overwhelming. Whether you’re visiting a local animal shelter or working with a 501c3 rescue organization, there are often many dogs to choose from, in a range of breed mixes, sizes, and ages. Instead of picking the first cute face you see, take time to ask the […]

Have a new puppy at home? Learn when to start potty training a puppy, create a schedule, use a crate, and prevent common accidents.

Food-grade lick mats made of natural rubber or silicone aim to soothe, entertain, and enrich dogs. They're also easy to clean and offer many uses.

Ear mites in dogs are uncomfortable and can be painful. They can also lead to other, potentially serious ear conditions in dogs.

Bringing home a puppy is exciting, but can also be overwhelming. There are so many elements to basic puppy training, and some, like socialization, have a tight timeline. So what are the behaviors should you teach a puppy first? In This Article Potty Training Crate Training Alone Time Training Teaching Appropriate Chewing Socialization and Confidence […]

The Great Pyrenees is one of the largest dogs that the AKC recognizes. They're best for experienced dog owners.

Since the 1980's, there have been significant advances in the field of animal assisted therapy and the use of therapy dogs. Organized therapy dog groups provide educational material to volunteers, they screen both volunteers and dogs, and they provide liability insurance for when the dog and handler are volunteering in a therapy setting. Therapy dog […]

The AKC Agility Department is excited to welcome Dan Wolfson of Florida to the AKC Agility Field Representative team. Dan has been an agility competitor since 20024 and an agility judge since 2016. He looks forward to working with judges, clubs and competitors in his new role. From his earliest memories, dogs have always been […]

Cheering on your hometown team is a true American tradition. So, what better way for the American Kennel Club to celebrate America’s 250th birthday than with the introduction of an agility event featuring teams that represent major US cities. The six teams faced off June 7 at an exciting competition held in the historic city of […]

  [accordion] [accordion_panel title="In the Zone - July 2026"] Wall Jump Soon to Be Allowed in Lower Levels Welcome to New Field Representative: Ronda Bermke Welcome to New Field Representative: Dan Wolfson Inaugural Team Challenge Event Celebrates America’s 250th Senior and Junior Teams Return from JAO/SAO Competitions [/accordion_panel]   [accordion] [accordion_panel title="In the Zone - […]

The AKC/Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy & Junior Stakes is held in conjunction with the AKC National Championship presented by Royal Canin   Orange County Convention Center Orlando, FL Friday, December 11, 2026   The AKC/Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy & Junior Stakes is a competition created especially for purebred dogs aged 6-18 months (Puppies 6-12 months/ […]

In 2026, the topic selected is "Road Preparedness—Basic Vehicle and Dog-transport Needs". This topic will discuss how to prepare handlers, with a basic understanding of vehicle needs and problems on the road, how to deal with on-the-road vehicle emergencies, and basic transportation must-have for dogs. Attending this seminar will fulfill the AKC RHP ongoing education […]