There's a reason why the AKC divides its breeds into seven groups. That reason is a mixture of tradition and breed function. But why?

[accordion] [accordion] [accordion_panel title="2025"] Below you will find recording links and resources for webinars that aired in 2024. Once you click the recording link, you will be asked to enter your name and email address in order to access the recording. Webinar Topic Recording Link Review & FAQ's on Conformation Judging Procedures, Policies & Guidelines […]

There is a lot to love about Miniature Pinschers, aka the "King of Toys." Here are a few fun facts about this active and fearless breed.

A sometimes overlooked, common condition that can contribute to recurrent UTIs is recessed vulvas in dogs. Learn more about it's symptoms and treatment.

Whether it's your dog's first birthday or their sweet 16, you'll want to celebrate. This guide can help you plan a great day for your beloved dog.

It’s one of the best ways to deeply bond with your dog. It's great exercise. And it just might be one of the most personally rewarding endeavors of your life. It’s the world of canine sports and events, and many events are open for all dogs to enjoy, including mixed-breed dogs. Something special happens between […]

Of the top five breeds registered by the American Kennel Club, two have never won the sought-after Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

When you let your dog outdoors to take care of business and notice them kicking grass, sand, and dirt behind them, it's easy to think that the behavior is just a way to keep their area clean. In truth, it's actually a safety mechanism and an important part of how dogs communicate as a species. […]

AKC Group Standards Download AKC approved breed standards by complete group for use on any portable electronic device. Sporting Hound Working Terrier Toy Non-Sporting Herding Misc. Judges Study Guide No single written guide is ever comprehensive enough to be the only learning tool utilized in preparation for judging a new breed. We urge you to […]

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 […]

If you have a small terrier or a Dachshund, you’ve undoubtedly already discovered their penchant to dig, stick their face underground, and emerge with something in his mouth, be it a mouse, a squirrel or some other creature. After you stop screaming in fright, your first instinct might be to reprimand him for catching that […]

Giving all purebred dogs a chance to compete The AKC, PAL and You Many people have discovered the fun of teaming up with their dogs and competing in AKC Events. But, not all of those wonderful canine athletes that you see at these events are registered with the AKC. Some might be enrolled in the […]

Most AKC forms and applications can be downloaded from this page. For best results, select a form and save it to your computer, then print a copy. MOST FREQUENTLY DOWNLOADED FORMS Additional Signature Form - Used when there are more than two signatures required AKC Canine Partners Listing Application AKC Code of Sportsmanship AKC Official […]

Trigger stacking is when a dog undergoes multiple stressful situations and exhibits a big reaction to a seemingly small stimulus. Find out how to handle it.

Dog teeth chattering doesn't only happen when your pet is cold. Veterinarians explain the reasons for teeth chattering in dogs and how to handle them.

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 […]

The AKC GoodDog!SM Helpline team is here to help you get the most out of your relationship with your canine companion. Our staff has decades of experience in training dogs and helping their owners foster and build a long-lasting bond. The AKC GoodDog!SM Helpline trainers are passionate about what they do, and committed to your success in […]

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 […]

The champion of the 2024 AKC National Championship has been crowned! The AKC National Championship took place on December 14-15 at the Orange Country...

We love all dogs, but it's a fact that specific breeds are naturally better at performing certain functions than others. Some purpose-bred dogs have innate skills as hunting companions; others assist in the herding of livestock; and others serve as guardians of people and property. When you and your dog participate in a performance sport, […]

You may have considered mushrooms' health benefits for humans, but what about the potential benefits of medicinal mushrooms for dogs?

Whippets are playful, affectionate dogs suited for a variety of households. These medium-sized dogs don't require much exercise and seldom bark.

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 […]

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.

Laser therapy for dogs can be a helpful complementary or alternative treatment option for managing inflammation, chronic pain or wound healing.

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!

The AKC Outstanding Sportsmanship Award Program was established in 2006 to provide each AKC Member Club with an embossed AKC medallion to award on a yearly basis as an ongoing effort to celebrate its volunteer club members. This award honors those individuals who deserve special recognition that have made a difference in the Sport of […]