The outdoor temperature where you live affects your dog's comfort level. If you live in a warm or tropical climate, what are the best breeds for hot...

The dog community is a big place, but so is the LGBTQ+ community! Make an effort to be kind to others, and stand up for others when you can.

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

If your dog's tail is limp, it could be a sign of a sprained tail, known as swimmer's tail or limber tail. What should you do if you suspect swimmer's tail?

Many AKC-recognized dog breeds were originally bred as hunting dogs. Many of these dogs are retrievers, pointers, or spaniels. These dogs have the skills, instinct, and energy to be our companions in the field, and they have been doing so for hundreds of years. Now, when hunting opportunities are limited, many of these breeds compete in […]

Puppies present a variety of challenges as they develop. First, they’re sweet babies, following us around, looking to us for every cue. Then, just when you think you’ve got a handle on house-training, basic obedience commands, and confidence building (in both of you), baby teeth and brains seem to go right out the window, simultaneously. […]

Looking to add a new dog to your home? If you're considering the Brittany, learn more about the breed and how it suits your lifestyle.

From puppies to senior dogs, learn how nutrition supports mobility, skin and coat health, and overall wellness throughout life.

Find dog breeds that get along with cats. Explore top choices for multi-pet homes and tips for smoother introductions.

Brittanys are versatile of bird dogs and they're great for the right family. Learn more about the breed with these Brittany fun facts.

You may have heard of a "breed standard" in relation to purebred dogs. But what does it mean? It's not just for conformation dog shows. Learn more!

Ever heard the word spitz to describe a dog? Learn about these fascinating breeds, which are characterized by their wolf-like appearance.

If you're looking for a fun, challenging, and athletic activity to do with your dog, Agility could be the choice for both of you. In Agility, you direct your dog through an obstacle course as quickly and accurately as possible. It’s a fast-paced dog sport that requires teamwork, training, conditioning, and concentration. But you don’t […]

Is your dog fascinated by birds and other critters? Their predatory heritage is to blame. Learn how to channel obsessive critter-watching behavior.

From sporting dogs to toy breeds, show dogs must look the part. “Miss America does not just sit on the couch eating potato chips before a pageant,” says Susan Hamil, a veteran of the dog show world. “It’s the same for show dogs.” Hamil, a judge and fancier of Bloodhounds, is one of the four […]

Traveling on the subway with your pup? Here's how to prepare your dog for a safe ride and where to look for public transit rules and regulations.

You say you want a dog every time you see a friendly Golden Retriever on the street. But are you actually prepared to bring one into your home? As much as we love the idea of having a canine companion to love unconditionally, being a responsible dog owner is a lot of work. Before getting […]

Dogs have long held a special place at monasteries worldwide. Here are just a few of the AKC-recognized breeds that have been particularly favored by monks.

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 […]

21 legislatures and the District of Columbia are in session. The following are highlights of current, active legislation around the country: California – AB 1382 prohibits the sale and importation of genetically modified pets with cosmetic traits in California, except for modifications that benefit animal health or human interaction, and imposes civil penalties for violations. The bill has […]

(updated 6/1/26 ) 5/11/2026 From the May Board Meeting - one new breed was added to the Foundation Stock Service Program – Lucas Terrier. 4/13/2026 From the April Board Meeting - three new breeds was added to the Foundation Stock Service Program – Silken Windhound, Saarloos Wolfhond, Old Danish Pointer. 1/12/26 The Peruvian Inca Orchid […]

The AKC Archives preserves and provides access to historically significant records documenting the sport of purebred dogs in the United States. The Archives are organized into four major collecting areas: Clubs (AKC Parent Clubs and select Member Clubs) People (influential individuals in the sport) AKC Administrative Records Visual Materials (photographs and other graphic formats) In […]

[video width="1280" height="720" mp4="https://www.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/a_juniors_adventure__cristiana_crespo_video-720p.mp4" autoplay="true"][/video] The AKC Patch Program aims to introduce a new generation of young people to purebred dogs and dog sports through a fun, interactive program held at dog shows and events. The AKC Patch Program is open to Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, and all youth ages 3-18 who attend the event. […]

For the complete requirements for eligibility, download the Special Registry Services booklet on the Rules and Regulations page. You may also find helpful information by visiting our Frequently Asked Questions. Foreign Dogs may be eligible for registration in the AKC Stud Book, provided: The dog is of a breed eligible for individual registration in the […]

Thanks to the strong response from AKC advocates and sportsmen’s groups—and the strong leadership of House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson—the House Farm bill, H.R. 7567, the “Farm, Food, and National Security Act,” passed by the U.S. House contained positive provisions that support responsible breeding and dog ownership and no provisions that will cause harm. […]

  April 17, 2026 The Honorable G. T. Thompson Chairman House Agriculture Committee U.S. House of Representatives 400 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 RE:        American Kennel Club Support for H.R. 7567 – the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026. Dear Chairman Thompson. On behalf of the American Kennel Club (AKC), our […]

Friday, April 17, 2026 South Carolina Senate Bill 720, the South Carolina Humane Dog Breeding Act, has been scheduled for a hearing on Tuesday, April 21, 2026. SB 720 seeks to establish state oversight of professional dog breeders, which the bill defines as a person who possesses ten or more intact adult female dogs for breeding and […]

South Carolina Senate Bill 720, the South Carolina Humane Dog Breeding Act, seeks to establish state oversight of professional dog breeders, which is defined as a person who possesses ten or more intact adult female dogs for breeding and sale, or who sells more than fifteen puppies or more than two litters in a calendar […]

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 […]

GCH Lockenhaus' Rumor Has It V Kenlyn, a German Shepherd Dog known as “Rumor,” triumphed over more than 4,000 dogs to earn a $50,000 cash prize and the title of Best in Show at the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship, held this weekend in Orlando, Fla. “Rumor,” owned by Deborah Stern, Pamela Buckles, Patti Dukeman, Pam McElheney […]