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Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
Bulldog Puppy Training Timeline: What to Expect and When to Expect It
Bulldogs are known for their dedicated demeanor and adorably wrinkled appearance. Unlike other breeds, they require a few special considerations when it comes to exercise, training, and grooming. For tips on navigating your Bulldog's first year and beyond, we've turned to Brenda Fontanos, AKC Bulldog breeder and owner of Font A Nose Bulldog in Lebanon, […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/bulldog-puppy-training-timeline-what-to-expect-and-when-to-expect-it/
| August 20, 2020
Expert Advice: Dog Behavior
Dog Reactivity: Understanding the Difference Between Reactivity and Aggression
Reactive dogs often overreact to certain things or situations. But, reactivity is often confused with aggression. Here's how to tell the difference.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/reactivity-vs-aggression/
| August 19, 2020
Expert Advice: Puppy Information
How to Introduce Puppies Into Homes With Senior Dogs
Considering adding a new puppy or new puppies to your family, with a senior dog already at home? There are certain precautions you'll need to take to maintain your older dog's mental and physical health during this time of transition. Here's what Dr. Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinary Officer for the American Kennel Club, offers as advice. Finding the […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/puppy-information/introducing-puppies-to-senior-dogs/
| March 26, 2020
Expert Advice: How to...
The More the Merrier: The Joys & Challenges of Owning Multiple Dogs
When it comes to dogs, more isn't always better. Owning multiple dogs can be great for owners and animals alike, but with it comes certain challenges.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/advice/joys-challenges-of-owning-multiple-dogs/
| February 27, 2020
Expert Advice: Breeding Tips & Best Practices
Setting Puppies Up for Success in New Homes: Early Socialization and Training Tips
Many first-time puppy owners feel overwhelmed in the early weeks of bringing home their new addition. As a responsible breeder, there is much that can be done to alleviate some of the more common issues owners have with new puppies before you send your precious litters out to their new homes. Addressing common problems before they begin can set your puppies up for success in their […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeding/early-socialization-training-tips-for-puppies/
| January 21, 2020
Expert Advice: Why does my dog...
Why Does My Dog Stare At Me?
Dogs spend lots of time staring at us owners, but why do dogs stare so much? Communication, expectation, and understanding are some reasons why dogs stare.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/advice/why-does-my-dog-stare-at-me/
| November 19, 2019
Expert Advice: Puppy Health
Is Your Puppy Drinking Enough Water?
Puppies actually need to drink more water than adult dogs. Learn how much water your puppy needs at various stages and how much is too much.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/puppy-drinking-enough-water/
| March 21, 2019
Expert Advice: Can my dog...
Can a Big Breed Live With a Small Breed?
Dogs come in all sizes, from the under-6-pound Chihuahua to the up-to-180-pound Saint Bernard. Dog lovers often long to live with small and large dog breeds for the variety of benefits they offer. The tiny English Toy Spaniel will snuggle on your lap, while the athletic Labrador Retriever will run and hike with you for […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/advice/can-big-and-small-dogs-live-together/
| December 10, 2018
Expert Advice: Training
The Power of Proper Puppy Socialization and Training Classes
Most dog owners have no doubt heard about the importance of socializing their puppy. Proper socialization means providing positive experiences with as many new people, dogs, and situations as possible. It’s essential for developing a confident and well-adjusted adult dog that is comfortable with all life has to offer. Unfortunately, despite the significance, many people […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/puppy-training-classes/
| May 16, 2018
Expert Advice: Training
Ask Our Trainers: Dealing With Multi-Generations of Canines in Your Household
Joanna B. wrote that her daughter’s 10-month-old Labrador Retriever loves to get in the face of her adult Coton de Tulear, which responds by growling and snapping. The result is that the Lab puppy tries even harder to get close to the Coton. It’s very common for families to bring home a new puppy when […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/ask-our-trainers-dealing-with-puppy-and-older-dog/
| February 6, 2018
Expert Advice: Dog Behavior
Ask Our Trainers: Why Does My Dog Hoard?
Why Does My Dog Hoard? Hoarding behavior in dogs is an instinctive behavior that originated during the time when their ancestors did not have regular meals appear magically, at least twice a day. They were lucky if they ate every few days, and if there was a jackpot of more food than could be […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/why-do-dogs-hoard/
| August 24, 2017
Expert Advice: Can my dog...
Should I Let My Dog Sleep With Me?
Should you let your dog sleep with you? There are historical precedents, and while there may be potential issues, there are plenty of benefits, too.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/advice/should-my-dog-sleep-with-me/
| July 24, 2017
Expert Advice: Basic Training
Hey, Is That for Me? How to Decide If Your Dog Should Open His Gifts
Everyone knows that opening gifts is fun. And Santa certainly won’t forget your best four-legged friend! But is it all right to let your canine family members open packages? Could it give them the idea that it’s okay to tear into any paper or box they encounter? Is it even safe? The answer is a […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/should-your-dog-open-his-gifts/
| December 28, 2016
Expert Advice: Basic Training
Hand Feed Your Dog Its Dinner – There are Many Benefits
Contrary to what you may believe or have heard, hand feeding your dog can actually be a good thing. Here's a few reasons why you should consider hand feeding a few meals to your dog each week. 1. Relationship and trust building. Hand feeding your dog teaches him that when you reach toward him good […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/hand-feed-your-dog-dinner/
| October 29, 2015
Expert Advice: Dog Behavior
Treating Territorial Aggression in Dogs
It's natural for dogs to defend their territory, but it's potentially dangerous. Learn to recognize territorial aggression and what you can do about it.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/treating-territorial-aggression-in-dogs/
| June 12, 2015
Expert Advice: Dog Behavior
See Spot Sit: Dog Training and Behavior Modification
Here is how I handle resource guarding. Make a list of the items (or people) your dog guards. "The Motivator" Figure out what motivates your dog to comply. This can be a ball, a toy or a really yummy treat. (Boiled chicken can get a dog to give up most anything.) Ask yourself some hard questions […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/see-spot-sit/
| March 18, 2014
Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
Is the Bulldog a Good Fit for You?
It's challenging to find the perfect dog for your family. Why not consider the sweet, easygoing Bulldog?
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/bulldog-right-for-you/
| March 10, 2025
Canine Partners
Dogs Have Feelings Too – Book Strives to Improve Child-Dog Relationships
Dogs Have Feelings Too – New Book Strives to Improve Child-Dog Relationships We recently spoke with certified dog trainer and behaviorist Michelle Godlevski of Raleigh, NC, about her new book, Dogs Have Feelings Too. Michelle wrote the children’s book to teach youngsters to recognize dog body language and to promote empathy in children on how […]
https://www.akc.org/canine-partners/dogs-have-feelings-too-book-strives-to-improve-child-dog-relationships/
| May 21, 2015
Clubs & Delegates
State Issues March 2025
Forty-six state legislatures and the District of Columbia are currently in session. The following are highlights of current, active legislation around the country: Alabama – HB 249 would specifically prohibit animal abandonment in Alabama. The bill is currently at second reading in the Alabama House of Representatives. Click here for more information. Arizona – Senate […]
https://www.akc.org/clubs-delegates/government-relations/newsletters/taking-command/state-issues-march-2025/
| March 21, 2025
Pages
AKC Breeds Broken Out By Group
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, […]
https://www.akc.org/akc-breeds-by-group/
| December 23, 2024