Traci Mitchell is an AKC Breeder of Merit Bronze, who breeds Black and Tan Coonhounds and an occasional Smooth Fox Terrier. The name Carlin is Irish Gaelic, meaning Little Champion in honor of her first Smooth Fox Terrier. She splits her time between southern California and southwest Iowa. She has lived in California all her […]

Growing up in Michigan, Cindy followed her grandmother around whelping and caring for several different kinds of babies - puppies, kittens, peeps, and various other farm animals. The retired nurse studied canine genetics at Michigan State University and says she inherited her love for breeding and training  from her family. Hartman now lives in South […]

Sheryl Bradbury breeds Grand Bassets Griffon Vendéen (GBGV) and Lancashire Heelers, a breed in the AKC Foundation Stock Service (FSS). "My Lancashire Heeler kennel, Mashury, is devoted first to health, temperament, and conformation and to breeding dogs that can work hard, play hard, and love their shepherd." “I imported my first GBGV in 2012 from […]

No doubt you've seen a Whippet or Italian Greyhound. These absolutely adorable dogs look like Greyhounds that have been blasted with a shrink ray. Thanks to their size, it's easy to see that they are not actually Greyhounds, but the trickier question is, how do you tell these two breeds apart? The larger Whippet is […]

Griffon Vendéen hounds have gone through 400 years of evolution to produce the loyal Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen, or GBGV. Known for their great hunting skills and light-footed step, the breed name means "Large, low, shaggy dog of Vendée." French hounds developed into the breeds they are today to form the needs of different geographic areas, […]

32 AKC recognized breeds make up the hound group. We're taking a closer look at what each of these beauties were bred to do.

Ever hear of the phrase, “the nose knows” ? Scent hounds are guided by their nose! Any Beagle, Basset, Dachshund or Coonhound out in the field working a track is happy to be sniffing out rabbit, hare or raccoon. In addition to scent hounds having amazing noses and the drive to pursue a scent, they […]

We are happy to announce that the Nederlandse Kooikerhondje and the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen (GBGV) are the newest members of the AKC family. These two breeds have received full recognition, bringing the total number of AKC-recognized breeds to 192. The Nederlandse Kooikerhondje – pronounced Netherlands-e Coy-ker-hond-tsje – is a spaniel-type dog that originated hundreds […]

How do you feel about a grand adventure, with a bit of challenge and surprise tossed in? If this appeals to you, the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen may satisfy that urge. With fewer than 400 in the United States, the rough-coated scenthound, a native of France, is one of two new breeds the American Kennel […]

The Pack Has Expanded! Nederlandse Kooikerhondje and Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen Gain Full American Kennel Club Recognition   

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a vivacious small French hunting hound known for a happy demeanor and durable constitution. Bred to work in a pack, PBGVs enjoy company and do well with other dogs and kids.

The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is a French scenthound. Somewhat active and never high-strung, yet GBGVs are busy dogs who don’t tire easily.

Header image courtesy of Lenni Cipriotti, AKC Breeder of Merit The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen, or GBGV, is a rare breed in the United States. He is energetic, curious, and always makes his presence known. Here are more interesting facts about the GBGV: 1. They Come From France If you're familiar with the French language, […]

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen has an intimidating name, but you can call them PBGVs or Petits (pronounced peh-teet) for short. Here are some interesting facts about these pint-sized pups. 1. Their Name Says Everything About Them Let's start by breaking down this long name. The name is French, since this breed originated in France. […]

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 […]

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!

[accordion] [accordion_panel title="2024"] 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. Review and FAQ's on Conformation Judging Procedures, Policies and Guidelines Tuesday, January 16, 2024 View […]

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 […]

Test for what is recommended for your breed, not everything available. Order AKC DNA + Health Kit The AKC DNA Program recommends that breeders perform DNA tests that are relevant to their breed. Although the AKC DNA + Health Kit includes over 328 markers for health and traits, not all genetic variants have been validated […]

The world of dog agility is fast-paced and exciting, but the terminology can be intimidating. Learn the language of dog agility so you can jump right in.