Discover the rich history of the Shiba Inu—from ancient Japanese hunting dog to internet icon and crypto mascot.

Eva Gellert, who lives in Atlanta, Georgia, got her start breeding Labrador Retrievers. Now, Gellert owns a breeding program for Barbets: Chateau Barbets.

An elegant, intelligent, and energetic breed, the Standard Poodle is one of three Poodle sizes. Is this the right breed for your lifestyle?

Loyal, alert, and willing to please, the Miniature Schnauzer is the most popular dog in the Terrier Group. They're well suited for a variety of households.

Over 137 dog and handler teams competed in the 2025 AKC National Obedience Championship at Purina Farms in Missouri, but only one was the overall Champion.

Six-year-old Xcel is a Working Kelpie who recently competed at the AKC's Agility Premier Cup. He's described as a clownish, intelligent dog.

Most pet owners have probably said at one point or another that they prefer their dog over most people. Well, thanks to a plethora of high-tech products on the market, spoiling our pups has never been easier. Here are some cool items to check out. PETKIT Dog Bowl This digital, machine-washable feeding bowl has a […]

A good temperament is often top of the list of desirable attributes for a pet, but what does temperament in dogs mean, and how can it be measured?

The Gordon Setter is the largest member of the setter breeds. Learn more about this breed with these Gordon Setter fun facts.

Why do dogs bury bones? You can thank your pet's ancestors, including wild dogs and the gray wolf, and their feast or famine diet.

If you need to transport your dog to the hospital, it can be a stressful experience. Learn how to make sure you keep them calm on safe on the way.

When competing at the 2025 AKC Diving Dogs Premier Cup Sarah Maleski wants to enjoy every second on the dock with 9-year-old Australian Shepherd 'Freyja.'

Hiking is an ideal outdoor activity enjoyed by all types of people and dogs, but some breeds are better suited to hiking and life on the trail than others.

If you're an experienced dog owner looking for an energetic, loyal companion, look no further than the Shiba Inu.

Standard Poodles are among the most instantly recognizable of all dog breeds. Known largely for their stylish looks, the athletic, eager, and intelligent Standard Poodle has so many more talents besides simply looking pretty. Learn more about this iconic Non-Sporting Group breed with these Standard Poodle fun facts. Standard Poodles Originated in Germany Although it […]

Golden Retrievers are called "America's sweethearts" by some, and have been among the most popular breeds for decades. Learn more about Goldens Retrievers.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are the ideal combination of a warmth and gentleness and the athleticism and spirit of a hunter. All in a toy-sized package!

Labrador Retrievers are wildly popular, as the boisterous breed is equally at home on the job or the couch. Learn more about these athletic, happy dogs.

German Shorthaired Pointers are all-round hunting dogs that also make for friendly companions. Learn all about this & more German Shorthaired Pointer facts.

If you seek an energetic, loving companion, look no further than the English Springer Spaniel, a member of the Sporting Group.

Thirteen years ago, Ron Godshall and Heather Eckenrode entered agility class as newbies to the sport. Things have changed, but he's still active at 78.

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, […]

Mission Statement: The American Kennel Club, the oldest and largest dog registry in the country, will provide assistance to the US Government and AKC breeders to improve the domestic supply of dogs for explosive detection training by raising the awareness of obstacles, exploring multiple solutions, educating key stake holders, and fostering collaboration for continuous improvement. […]

[accordion] [accordion_panel title="2025"] Save the Date: AKC Patriotic Puppy Program Regional Seminar, August 2-3, 2025, Waterbury, CT The AKC Patriotic Puppy Program (PPP) is headed to CT State Community College Naugatuck Valley! The next In Person Regional Seminar will take place on Saturday, August 2nd & Sunday, August 3rd in Waterbury, CT.  This unique dog […]

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. […]

There’s a reason why the phrase “man’s best friend” exists: It describes how much you and your dog complement each other, the time you spend together and the close relationship you have. That’s the foundation behind Companion events: To demonstrate the deep companionship between you and your dog. In these events, you and your dog […]

The Massachusetts Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government (JCMRG) has scheduled a public hearing for Tuesday, June 10, 2025, from 1PM to 5PM, on multiple animal bills, including some opposed by the American Kennel Club (AKC). OPPOSE: UPDATING ANIMAL HEALTH INSPECTIONS HB 2253 and SB 1458 are mirror bills that would remove Massachusetts’ legal […]

Yesterday, the Colorado House of Representatives passed a bill regulating the sale and transfer of dogs on public property.  The bill contains amendments requested by the Colorado Federation of Dog Clubs (CFDC) to ensure no unintended consequences for those competing in events. The bill as amended now goes to the Senate for further consideration. Summary: […]

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 […]

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 […]