They’re certainly great, but did you know they’re not Danish? Dogs resembling Great Danes appear as far back as ancient Egyptian carvings, but the modern Great Dane was actually bred in Germany in the 1800s.

We take name inspiration from all of our favorite things in life. Our favorite places, flowers, family members, movies—so when it comes to naming a new puppy, why not take a cue from some of our most-loved foods too? Whether your taste leans sweet, salty, or savory, food-inspired names are playful, memorable, and full of […]

“Louie,” a mischievous Bichon Frise, inspired Karen Petit to write a children’s book series about the American Revolution.

It's easy (and dangerous) for dogs to become overheated. Here's how to recognize signs of overheated dogs, how to prevent overheating, and what to do if you think you have an overheated dog.

Can dogs eat cucumbers? They can, and small pieces of these water-rich vegetables can make good rewards for dogs.

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.

When considering a treat for dog training, freeze-dried treats are one option to consider. Learn more about these single-ingredient treats.

"Wouldn't it be great if our dogs could talk?" says Amanda Nascimento DVM, MSc, PhD. "If you listen closely, they can." In This Article Understanding Why Dogs Bark Why Dogs Whine Understanding the Context Behind a Dog’s Howl Why Some Dogs 'Purr' and What It Means How to Interpret Growling in Different Situations Understanding Why […]

Six breeds: the American English Coonhound, Black and Tan Coonhound, Bluetick Coonhound, Plott Hound, Redbone Coonhound, and the Treeing Walker...

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

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  [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 - […]

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 […]

The following breeders have met the requirements for the Breed and Levels recorded at the time of the application. The American Kennel Club is pleased to recognize these breeders for their contribution to the sport and maintaining the tenets of the Breeder of Merit program. (current as of  7/16/26, last updated 7/17/26) [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Platinum"] […]

As of July 13, 2009, the AKC Board of Directors approved the eligibility of Foundation Stock breeds that meet the below criteria may compete in AKC Companion Events; this will be effective January 1, 2010. Dogs with three-generation pedigrees recorded in FSS® Breed Standard has been submitted As of February 9, 2007, the AKC Board […]

The following are the group designations that the current FSS breeds have been assigned. There are currently 88 breeds in the FSS program.  (Revised 6/10/26) Sporting Group - 17 breeds Blue Picardy Spaniel Braque du Bourbonnais Braque Francais Pyrenean Braque St. Germain Deutscher Wachtelhund Drentsche Patrijshond French Spaniel German Longhaired Pointer Large Munsterlander Old Danish […]

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 […]

In compliance with PCI regulations, the American Kennel Club (AKC) no longer accepts credit card information on paper forms. Please submit payment by check, money order, or complete your transaction securely online. Most AKC forms and applications can be downloaded from this page. For best results, select a form and save it to your computer, […]

The one-of-a-kind French Bulldog, with his large bat ears and even disposition, is one of the world’s most popular small-dog breeds, especially among city dwellers. The Frenchie is playful, alert, adaptable, and completely irresistible.