Breeder of Merit FAQs [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Prepaid Registrations In Breeder Toolkit"] If you plan to use the prepaid option to register all of the puppies – Do not select the electronic (downloadable) litter kit when you register the litter. That will disable the prepaid option. You are able to send an individual Registration Application for […]

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

The American Kennel Club is the world's largest registry of purebred dogs, and uses these statistics to rank the most popular breeds — and the rarest breeds. The numbers are in: these are the rarest dog breeds according to AKC registration statistics. In 2025, 202 total breeds were counted in the registration statistics. In 2026, […]

When it comes to the dog flu, it’s important to always be prepared. Here's an overview of the symptoms and treatment options for canine influenza.

Wondering if your dog is dehydrated? Here are the signs to look for and actions to take if your dog is dehydrated.

On a warm day, you're probably used to seeing your dog panting to keep themselves cooler at the same time you feel those annoying droplets of sweat forming on your own overheated brow. Your dog doesn't seem to be sweating in the same way that you are, but contrary to popular belief, dogs do sweat, […]

If your puppy has been wobbly since birth, they could have a non-progressive, non-curable neurological condition known as cerebellar hypoplasia.

The most popular breeds in the U.S. have been announced, but where does your city fall? See 2025's most popular breeds by city.

Summer is the time to have outdoor fun with our dogs. Longer walks in the park, ambitious hikes, beach days, or family travel—the sun is shining, and the outdoors is calling. But hot weather can also make us uncomfortable, and it poses special risks for dogs. From increased exposure to ticks and other insects to […]

The French Bulldog continues to warm hearts in the United States! The American Kennel Club (AKC®), a not-for-profit organization that is the world’s largest registry of purebred and mixed-breed dogs, and a leading voice for canine welfare and responsible ownership, announced this morning that the beloved French Bulldog is America’s most popular breed for the […]

Every year the American Kennel Club releases our ranking of the most popular dog breeds based on AKC registration statistics for the previous year. The French Bulldog continues to top the rankings at the No. 1 spot for the fourth year in a row. The Labrador Retriever, who had a 31-year run as the most […]

After confirming that your dog is healthy, the following tips can help you prevent and clean tear stains from your dog's face.

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  3/12/26, last updated 3/13/26) [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Platinum"] […]

Just like people, dogs are prone to sunburn and other diseases associated with UV exposure. Here's what you should know about dog sunscreen and dog sunburn.

A dog life jacket is key to helping you and your dog stay safe in the water. Follow these tips to find the right life jacket for your dog.

We’ve all had this experience—a summer day, a drive to the lake, and a refreshing dip in the clear cool water. Then there’s the agonizing drive home, as you try to keep your eyes on the road, even as you're about to pass out from the smell of wet dog. Ever wonder what the recipe […]

Barbet Learn about Barbets [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Rescue Organizations"] Barbet Club of America Ellen Rich, (248) 978-2715, eredavi@aol.com [/accordion_panel] [/accordion] Basenji Learn about Basenjis [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Rescue Organizations"] Basenji Club of America Joe Carlson, 954-815-2143, ernursero@aol.com Basenji Rescue & Transport, Inc. [/accordion_panel] [/accordion] Basset Hound Learn about Basset Hounds [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Rescue Organizations"] Basset Hound Club of America, […]

The following are the group designations that AKC breeds have been assigned. There are currently 205 breeds and 9 breeds with 21 varieties.  The varieties are by size, color or group.   The varieties are marked by **(Revised 3/10/26) [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Sporting Group – 33 breeds"] Sporting Group Naturally active and alert, Sporting dogs make likeable, […]

Many cases of canine constipation can be resolved with dietary changes and exercise, but other cases may require a veterinarian's insight.

At AKC shows, dogs are organized into 7 groups: Hound, Working, Sporting, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, and Herding. Learn about what makes each group unique.

Every dog, no matter the breed, can benefit from wearing a raincoat. Keeping your dog dry prevents adverse health conditions and puts their comfort first.

Burrs can attach themselves to your dog's coat when they're outdoors. Here's how to safely remove them from your dog's coat.

The American Kennel Club (AKC®), a not-for-profit organization that is the world’s largest registry of purebred and mixed-breed dogs, and a leading voice for canine welfare and responsible ownership, is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2025 Junior Versatility Scholarships. The program honors Juniors who actively compete across a range of sports. Participants earn […]

Know the signs of IBD and IBS and how to diagnose and treat them. IBS is less common in dogs than IBD, but can have many different causes.

When you see dogs with cloudy eyes, it may be a natural part of the aging process. But cloudy eyes in dogs can also be a symptom of eye problems.

With over 200 recognized dog breeds, it can be difficult to learn about them all. You've probably seen plenty of Labrador Retrievers and French Bulldogs, two of the most popular dog breeds in the country, but there are many other breeds that go relatively unnoticed. If it weren’t for their enthusiasts, we might not even […]

The FDA is investigating potential links between canine heart disease and diet — specifically grain-free dog food diets. We've compiled the information you need to know to understand this ongoing investigation. Why Is the FDA Investigating Grain-Free Dog Food? It is easy to panic anytime we see an FDA headline about pet food. After all, keeping our dogs healthy […]

Toothbrushing can be a pain when it comes to your dogs, but with these 12 simple steps, you can make this important grooming process easy for you both.

The 1930s marked a pivotal turning point for the United States, as the Great Depression reshaped American life. Here is a look back at the top ten dog breeds that captured the heart of a resilient nation.

Click below to see titles and abbreviations for: Prefix Titles Suffix Titles Parent Club Titles Working Dog Titles Other Recognized Titles Other Title Lists: Titles Sorted by Sport Titles Sorted in Alphabetic Order   Prefix Titles Title Title Name AFC An Amateur Field Trial Champion title can be earned in either Beagle Field Trials, Pointing […]