Dogs can eat cooked, unseasoned potatoes in moderation. Sweet potatoes are the most nutritious; potatoes with green spots should be avoided.

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. In This Article The First Three Weeks of a Puppy’s Life What Is Early Neurological Stimulation? How Early Neurological Stimulation Works […]

Here you can access a list of AKC Government Relations resources available to help you be effective advocates for responsible dog ownership and breeding! Be sure to check back often, as we are continuously adding new items.  If you have any questions about these materials, or are dealing with a canine legislation issue, please contact […]

June 8-9, 2026 Delegate Meeting Delegate Meeting Agenda Vote on the proposed amendment to Chapter 3, Section 12 of the Rules Applying to Dog Shows Read on the proposed amendment to Article XIV, Section 1 of the Charter and Bylaws of The American Kennel Club To be read/voted on as one amendment: Chapter 11 , […]

In this section you will find information related to each AKC Delegate Meeting. June 8-9, 2026 Delegate Meeting Delegate Meeting Agenda Vote on the proposed amendment to Chapter 3, Section 12 of the Rules Applying to Dog Shows Read on the proposed amendment to Article XIV, Section 1 of the Charter and Bylaws of The […]

Having trouble deciding on what to name your new dog? Check out our list of the 150 most popular puppy names that are unique but never go out of style!

What makes a dog smart? Discover how canine intelligence is defined and which dog breeds consistently rank highest.

Editor’s Note: The American Kennel Club has had a long history of inclusion across our sport for exhibitors and spectators from all walks of life. We are sharing the stories and voices of LGBTQ community members. Here, Sassafras Lowrey shares tips on how to be more inclusive as dog owners and handlers. You can read […]

Bringing a dog into your life can be deeply rewarding, but it also requires planning, patience, and long-term responsibility. While many people imagine playtime, companionship, and affection, thinking about the realities of what dog ownership actually involves is the best first step you can take. Once the right dog for your family comes along, you […]

If you're looking for a perfect mix of guard dog and companion, consider the Great Dane, one of the largest dog breeds.

Calm dog breeds can make great companions and therapy dogs. While any dog can be easy going, these breeds are known to be laid-back.

All-American Dog "Paige" had a rough start as as puppy. Now 11, she and owner Flora Steffan have had an incredible agility career.

The Illinois Legislature adjourned the spring 2026 session in the early hours Monday morning.  While the lawmakers will come back for a short session later this fall where bills may be considered, this adjournment crosses a major hurdle for bills impacting dog owners and breeders in Illinois. Thanks to a significant response from dog owners […]

Can dogs eat tomatoes? The answer is yes and no. Here are the important things to know about feeding tomatoes to your dog.

The following list highlights some of the AKC Government Relations’ (AKC GR) legislative successes through June 3, 2026.  These and other victories have been won in cooperation with AKC federations, clubs, and responsible dog owners and breeders around the country who continue to work tirelessly to promote positive canine legislation in their state and community. […]

June 2026 The Board VOTED to approve a request of the Delegate Companion Events Committee to amend the Obedience Regulations, removing the words “must run” from the current statement and replacing them with “Fast,” meaning that the handler and dog must move forward at a noticeably accelerated speed. These changes are effective June 1, 2026. […]

The evaluators for the ATT must either be approved AKC licensed judges of obedience or rally or be an approved CGC evaluator. The person who conducts the ATT testing is referred to as the “ATT Evaluator.” All ATT Evaluators must go through an approval process that involves completing an ATT Evaluator application, logging in to […]

On Monday, June 8, 2026, Kentucky State Senator Robin Webb will host a ceremonial bill signing to celebrate the designation of the Treeing Walker Coonhound as Kentucky’s State Dog.  Kentucky’s purebred dog community is invited to join lawmakers, sportsmen, and stakeholders at this memorable event. State Senator Webb, a 2016 recipient of the AKC Legislator […]

Is the Scottish Terrier the right breed for your lifestyle? Learn more about this iconic terrier breed and see if they're right for you.