What is a conflict of interest? The Rules, Policies, and Guidelines for Conformation Dog Show Judges provides “A conflict of interest exists when a judge is influenced by any relationship or factor other than the merit of the dogs.” Essentially, a conflict of interest exists when the presence of an exhibitor or their dogs gives the impression […]

The Spotlight shines on one of – if not the – rarest breed competing in League over the Fall Season. Allie is a Stabyhoun – a Dutch breed that is an all-around farm dog, doing any task needed, including hunting birds and small game. They also can run agility – as proven by Allie who […]

This issue’s training tip is contributed by Courtney Holscher, a rehabilitation and acupuncture veterinarian in South Carolina. Courtney is also an agility competitor, who competes on AKC Agility League teams with the Palmetto Agility Club of the Upstate in South Carolina. Courtney currently competes with her All American Dog, Ella; Border Collie, Zinnia; and Miniature […]

You can now sign up teams, handlers and dogs for the Winter 2026 Season of AKC Agility League. Enrollment opened on Dec. 15 and continues through Jan. 5. Competition launches on Jan. 12. Captains should first enroll their teams here: https://akc.jotform.com/253167375264866 Once teams are signed up, please let your handlers know that they can enroll their […]

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis recently expressed support for 2026 legislation that will seek to “crack down on abusive ‘puppy mills’ and strengthen animal welfare standards” in Florida.  The governor made the announcement from the grounds of a well-funded animal rescue, which championed extreme anti-breeder legislation filed in the Florida legislature earlier in 2025. The Governor’s […]

The American Kennel Club (AKC®), a not-for-profit organization that is the world’s largest registry of purebred dogs, and a leading voice for canine welfare and responsible ownership, is proud to announce the AKC Breeder of the Year by Sport honorees. Consistent with its mission of promoting the breeding of purebred dogs for type and function, […]

The top dogs in the nation were crowned from an overall combined entry of 257 dogs this past weekend at the 12th AKC® Obedience Classic. Competitions were held December 13-14, 2025, in conjunction with the 25th AKC® National Championship presented by Royal Canin at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL. The 14th AKC® […]

The 20th annual AKC® Agility Invitational took place December 13-14, 2025 in Orlando, FL in conjunction with the 25th AKC® National Championship Presented by Royal Canin, demonstrating the highest level of training and teamwork between dog and handler. The top five dogs in each breed received an invitation to compete in this prestigious event. Agility […]

Susan S. Giles was presented with the 2025 AKC Breeder of the Year award for Ta Sen Lhasa Apsos at the 25th AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin on Saturday, December 13, 2025.  The annual award honors those breeders who have made an impact on their breed and dedicate their lives to improving the […]

The top dogs in the nation were crowned from an overall entry of 132 dogs this past weekend at the AKC Rally Champion (RACH) Invitational. Competitions were held December 11-12, 2025, in conjunction with the 25th AKC® National Championship Presented by Royal Canin at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL. The winners: AKC […]

CH Meadowlake No More Cloudy Days, a Border Terrier known as “Brighty” triumphed over 1,602 dogs ages six months to 18 months to become the AKC® Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy of the Year, held in Orlando, Fla in conjunction with the AKC® National Championship Presented by Royal Canin. “Brighty,” owned and bred by Karen […]

Each new year, humans make resolutions to better themselves throughout the year. This year, we wonder what sort of resolutions our dogs might make.

Here are ways to set dog training goals for the new year and how to go about keeping these resolutions and achieving these attainable goals.

The 20th annual AKC Agility Invitational, saw some of the most agile dogs in the country. See the winners in each division here.

Eight-to-ten weeks is the age at which most breeders send puppies to their new homes, and it is important to let buyers know that they need to continue with socialization when they get their new puppy home. The pups need to continue meeting new people. This is the final four weeks of the most important […]

Many first-time puppy owners feel overwhelmed in the early weeks of bringing home their new addition. As a responsible breeder, there is much that can be done to alleviate some of the more common issues owners have with new puppies before you send your precious litters out to their new homes. Addressing common problems before they begin can set your puppies up for success in their […]

What should you expect when your dog is expecting? Her diet. These changes mean means offering nutrition tailored to her size, breed, and stage of pregnancy. Certain vitamins and minerals go a long way in reducing the likelihood of labor difficulties, improper mammary growth, and premature labor. They also help to ensure your dog remains […]

The 25th annual AKC National Championship holds additional special events, including the second AKC Rally Champion (RACH) Invitational.

For the second year in a row, Golden Retriever 'Squeeze' and owner Sharri Sibert took home the top prize at the AKC Obedience Classic.

Meet 'Haldis,' a Norwegian Lundehund handled by Kristina Maze, who's competing at the 2025 AKC National Championship in Orlando, FL.