The American Kennel Club is opposed to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. In solidarity with Ukrainian people, judges from the Russian Federation will not be approved to judge at AKC sanctioned events. *UPDATE: Dogs born in Russia that have been exported to other countries, with registries recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and registered in […]

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  8/22/25, last updated 8/25/25) [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Platinum"] […]

The following are the group designations that the current FSS breeds have been assigned. There are currently 87 breeds in the FSS program.  (Revised 8/7/25) Sporting Group - 16 breeds Blue Picardy Spaniel Braque du Bourbonnais Braque Francais Pyrenean Braque St. Germain Deutscher Wachtelhund Drentsche Patrijshond French Spaniel German Longhaired Pointer Large Munsterlander Pont-Audemer Spaniel […]

The following are the group designations that AKC breeds have been assigned. There are currently 202 breeds and 9 breeds with 21 varieties.  The varieties are by size, color or group.   The varieties are marked by **(Revised 1/01/25) [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Sporting Group – 33 breeds"] Sporting Group Naturally active and alert, Sporting dogs make likeable, […]

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 […]

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 […]

Each of the AKC registered breeds are assigned to one of seven groups representing characteristics and functions the breeds were originally bred for. Current as of June 17, 2025 [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Herding Group"] HERDING GROUP The Herding Group, created in 1983, is the newest AKC classification; its members were formerly members of the Working Group. […]

Test for what is recommended for your breed. Order AKC DNA + Health Kit The AKC DNA Program recommends that breeders perform DNA tests that are relevant to their breed. The AKC DNA + Health Kit includes over 328 markers for health and traits, and every dog receives results for all tests. However, not all […]

Wondering if dogs can eat tofu? Learn about its nutritional benefits, safe preparation methods, recommended serving sizes, and potential risks to consider.

Limes may seem harmless, but they can pose health risks to dogs. Learn why limes aren't safe for pets and which fruits are safer alternatives.

Does dog food expire? Learn about the best ways to store different kinds dog food, keep your dog's food fresh, and feed your dog safely.

The pancreas plays an important role in digestion. When this organ becomes inflamed, it's called pancreatitis. The warning signs of pancreatitis aren't always obvious. Your dog might throw up a few times in a day or seem lethargic. Or they might be lying down and refusing to eat. Not even their favorite treat can get […]

The right dog collar isn't just a fashion choice; it should be safe, secure, and comfortable. So what goes into choosing the right dog collar?

Whether we're young or old, dogs are great company. Seniors deciding what breed dog to add to their life, should consider lifestyle and physical ability.

Cookouts are fun for the whole family and the smells are sure to allure your dog. But can dogs eat hot dogs? Here's what to do if your dog snags one.

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. But more research shows that encouraging a stable temperament can start even before puppies are born. Breeders can do a lot […]

It happens fast, and he makes it look easy. "Hit it!" says Bea Page, and with a running start, Hogan the French Bulldog begins his sprint into parkour.

Ten years ago, the GPS in your car was a dash-mounted brick that might just steer you into a detention pond, but now directional navigation consists of a soothing voice providing real-time traffic updates and restaurant recommendations. The tech in human gadgets has improved dramatically, and GPS gear for man's best friend has followed suit. […]

Right now you may be at a cookout with your dog, wondering: Can dogs eat hamburger? Here's what to know before you give your dog a bite.

You may know the Boston Terrier for their distinct round head — which has granted them the nickname "Roundhead." They're actually a relatively new breed: they were developed mainly int he 20th century. From England to the United States Their journey begins in 1847, at the Burnett House in Southborough, Massachusetts. That 13-bedroom French Empire mansion […]

Agility is a fast-growing dog sport that showcases the power of the human-canine bond. As the handler directs the dog through a predetermined obstacle course, the team races against the clock to finish the agility course with as few mistakes as possible. On March 13-16, competitors zoomed through courses at the 2025 AKC National Agility […]

Fast CAT 101: The AKC's Fastest Sport! Does your dog feel the need for speed? Do you have the fastest dog on the block? Maybe on the planet? Try Fast CAT!

You’ve made the decision to welcome a new dog into your family. Now comes the fun part – finding the perfect dog. There’s a lot to consider. Before you commit, ask yourself these five questions. What’s Your Schedule? Think about your lifestyle. Do you work long hours? Struggle to get out the door in the […]

Can dogs eat dates? Learn about the benefits and drawbacks of dates and how to safely feed small amounts of this fruit to your dog.

When you bring home a small breed puppy, it's important to begin socializing that puppy early on to set them up for success throughout their life.

Puppies are exciting. However, any experienced breeder will tell you they're also a lot of work. A responsible breeder prepares long in advance—to identify the purpose of the breeding; to carefully plan and research the breed, the standard, the health history, and available healthy males of good temperament; to form partnerships with their veterinarians and […]

Just as your puppy is getting used to potty training, they may be urinating more than usual or having accidents. This could be caused by vaginitis in dogs.

2023 Photos [caption id="attachment_182231" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] 2023 AKC Fast CAT Invitational Champion Winner -Pure Speed Division (HC 1) – Wildtucks Momentary Lapse of Reason FCAT DE AM TKN, a Whippet known as “Reas,” owned by Lindsay & Matthew Manetti. (AKC)[/caption] [caption id="attachment_182251" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] 2023 AKC Fast CAT Invitatiional – Champion Winner – Pure Speed […]

Scheduling Conformation Events General Questions Points Schedule Formulation Specialties Held With All-Breed and Group Shows Classes and Entries Submitting Results Awards and Titles Judges and Judging Junior Showmanship Sweepstakes Trophies, Prizes, and Ribbons Club Membership Upload Tool Scheduling Conformation Events AKC recommended Best Practices to hire and assign judges, leading to an efficient schedule. General […]

The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) is pleased to announce the judging panel for the AKC Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy and Junior Stakes to be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida in conjunction with the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin. The AKC Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy and Junior […]