"A dog owns nothing, yet is seldom dissatisfied."-Irish Proverb New York -- It's no surprise that Ireland has produced many immortal writers, poets and musicians, but did you know there are several dog breeds that hail from the Emerald Isle? In honor of St. Patrick's Day on March 17th, the American Kennel Club® celebrates the […]

"As the big hound is, so will the pup be."-- Irish Proverb New York -- It’s no surprise that Ireland has produced many immortal writers, poets and musicians, but did you know there are several dog breeds that hail from the Emerald Isle? In honor of St. Patrick’s Day on March 17th, the American Kennel […]

In honor of St. Patrick’s Day on Wednesday, March 17th, the American Kennel Club celebrates seven purebred dogs of Irish heritage that are AKC registrable or are in the AKC miscellaneous class. Additional information, including the full breed standards, links to Parent Club web sites and video clips of each breed, is available a this […]

In celebration of St. Patrick's Day on Monday, March 17th, 2003 the American Kennel Club celebrates seven purebred dogs of Irish heritage. Additional information including the full breed standards, links to Parent Club web sites and video clips of each breed, is available on this site.   The Glen of Imaal Terrier - "There is […]

The American Kennel Club (AKC®), a not-for-profit organization, is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2025 Junior Scholarships awarded to those who compete in Companion Events. "These outstanding young individuals have demonstrated an abundance of commitment—not only to their academic studies but also to the sport of dogs,” Doug Ljungren, AKC Executive Vice President […]

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 […]

The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) is pleased to announce the judging panels for the 2024 National Owner-Handled Series (NOHS) Finals and 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 […]

The American Kennel Club (AKC®), a not-for-profit organization, the world’s largest purebred dog registry and leading advocate for dogs, is pleased to announce the recipients of the Junior Scholarships awarded to those who compete in Companion Events.  Scholarships totaling $10,000 were awarded to the following recipients. “These Juniors have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to their […]

Dogs are renowned for their ability to read humans. But a study shows that the type of breed influences their level of human communication.

Learn about the signs and management options for megaesophagus in dogs, an esophageal condition that causes regurgitation and associated complications.

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!

The 12th annual Masters Agility Championship at Westminster has crowned its winner! Border Collie 'Vanish' and Emily Klarman, took home the top prize.

Your dog's name reflects their personality and helps you effectively communicate with them. But how do you choose the perfect name? Here are some tips.

Hypothyroidism in dogs is common endocrine disease. It can be tricky to diagnose and needs lifelong management, but it is relatively easy to treat.

Getting the chance to win big in the conformation ring at Westminster is one thing. Getting another kind of ring on top of that is even more life-changing.

An intense drive to find birds and a loyal companionship in the field and home traces the Pointer's history. The medium-to-large-sized hunting dog has...

The letters at the beginning and end of a dog's registered name are titles which are accomplishments the dog has earned. Learn more about what titles mean.

After an action-packed weekend, the 2024 Masters Agility Championship at Westminster, a winner has been crowned.

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 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, […]