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 […]

The Regulation Elementary champs: Raindogs are repeat winners from last season! The members live in Ketchikan, Alaska – a remote city located on an island only accessed by boat or plane. They run outdoors year-round and often in the rain as Ketchikan is in a temperate rainforest. Captain Michelle Steed tells us more about how […]

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 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?

Dogs can eat cooked, unseasoned potatoes in moderation. Sweet potatoes are the most nutritious; potatoes with green spots should be avoided.

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

Saturday’s Judging Panels View Saturday’s judging panels for the all-breed show and specialty judging by breed. All-Breed Panel Specialty PanelsAfghan HoundChihuahuaDoberman PinscherLabrador RetrieverXoloitzcuintli

The sport of AKC Scent Work is based on the work of professional detection dogs. All dogs (purebred and mixed breeds) can participate; even dogs with physical challenges are eligible. AKC Scent Work celebrates the joy of sniffing and asks dogs to sniff to their heart’s content. It turns a dog’s favorite activity into a […]

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 excited to announce the winners of the AKC Agility League’s winter season. The AKC Agility League recently concluded its 12th season of competition and honored […]

Luxating patella in dogs is one of the most common orthopedic conditions, diagnosed in 7% of puppies. How do you treat it?

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, […]

All it takes is a trip to the grocery store or gas pump to feel the sting of inflation. Inflation impacts every aspect of our lives, and dog care costs are no exception. Meeting your dog's physical, mental, and emotional needs are key elements of responsible dog ownership, and some elements become more costly as […]

Senior dogs can still have a wonderful quality of life. There are also lots of ways owners can promote movement, health, cognitive function, and comfort.

How long can you keep your dog outside? Here we explore just how to determine when it's time to call your dog back inside after a day of outdoor fun.

Dogs use their barks to show how they feel and to communicate with other dogs. The reason behind their bark can change depending on the situation.

If your dog smells like a can of anchovies, you may suspect something fishy with their health — and your suspicions may be right on the nose. While it's possible your dog may have rolled in something foul, a recurring pungent odor could indicate an underlying medical issue. In This Article Why Dogs Develop a […]

Cold temperatures and inclement weather can make it hard to do normal activities outdoor with your dog. Learn how to keep your dog entertained indoors.

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, […]

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.

Choosing dog brushes can be challenging. Here's what you need to know to select the right dog brush for your pet.

Small dogs are some of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Here are the smallest dog breeds guaranteed to make you smile.

When Christian Stoinev was 10, he was gripped by a yearning that is common among boys of that age. “I wanted a pet, really bad,” he recalls. But Stoinev’s life was not like that of most little boys. He was a child of the circus, the youngest member of a big-top family that stretched back […]

The Italian Greyhound is many things, as well as a smaller cousin of the Greyhound. Learn more about this sleek, quick sighthound.

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.

The sassy Chihuahua packs a lot of personality into that tiny body. Learn more about the breed's history with these fun facts.

Bored dogs can get up to mischief, but there are plenty of ways to engage your pet. Here are some leading causes of boredom in dogs, as well as ways to deal with them.

The American Kennel Club (AKC®) is pleased to recognize its affiliated dog clubs which have been holding AKC events for over 100 years and are an essential part of the sport of dogs. Airedale Terrier Club of America Japanese Chin Club of America Airedale Terrier Club of New England Kennel Club of Buffalo American Chesapeake […]