How to Fit Probiotics into Your Dog's Daily Routine Dogs experience digestive ups and downs just like we do. Whether it's potty struggles or a rumbly...

Whether you're buying for the show ring or to serve as a companion, health screenings are among the key factors potential owners should consider before choosing a puppy. Increasingly, breeders are turning to health testing to ensure they are doing all they can to create strong matches between dogs that result in healthier puppies. The Canine […]

Jo\udy Harding's Shih Tzu "Tova" is far from a lapdog. Together, they compete in multiple sports, including obedience and trick dog.

Learn about the types and severity of dog burns and how to administer first aid to help with healing and reduce risk of infection or other complications.

Susan Lacroix Hamil's Bloodhound, 'Rocky,' starred in the famous movie 'Best in Show,' now 25 years ago.

Diversity amongst dogs and people makes our dog sports community stronger. Meet some of the LGBTQ+ dog spot handlers and what they do.

Over 683 dog and handler teams competed in the 2025 AKC Rally National Championship at Purina Farms in Missouri, but only one was the overall Champion.

Braylen Green may be one of the youngest in the ring, but she is all poise and professionalism as a young handler with big dreams.

The Diving Dogs Team Challenge is splashing onto your screens! Learn more about tune-in and broadcast info as it's updated.

'Samara' the Pyrenean Mastiff Outshines as a Guardian and Therapy Dog

It happens fast, and he makes it look easy. "Hit it!" says Bea Page, and with a running start, Hogan the French Bulldog begins his sprint into parkour.

Wisconsin brothers Austin and Logan Kressin are among the youngest competitors at the 2025 AKC Rally National Championships.

Nashville team the "Dolly Pawtons" of Nashville heads to the AKC Agility League Championship.

Pug 'Louis' was the first Pug to get his AKC Rally Championship title. He recently competed at the first AKC RACH Invitational in Orlando, Florida.

Make the most of your dog's training classes with at-home practice. Learn why consistency matters and how to train effectively, even in small spaces.

Dog vomiting can range from being no big deal to signaling something serious. Learn more about why dogs vomit and what to do to help them.

Bringing home a new dog? Experts explain why taking time off or working from home can help with bonding, training, and veterinary care.

It’s natural to hug someone you love, but dogs don’t communicate affection the same way humans do. Many dogs find hugs uncomfortable or even stressful, even if they don’t resist. By understanding how dogs experience physical contact, you can interact more safely and show affection in ways they truly enjoy. In This Article Why Dogs […]

The best dog for you depends on your lifestyle, not age. Learn more about dog breeds that can make great companions for older adults

All dogs six months of age or older from the following breeds are eligible to participate in Earthdog Events. AKC Recognized Breeds American Hairless Terrier Australian Terrier Bedlington Terrier Border Terrier Cairn Terrier Cesky Terrier Dachshund Dandie Dinmont Terrier Glen of Imaal Terrier Lakeland Terrier Manchester Terrier Miniature Bull Terrier Miniature Pinschers Miniature Schnauzer Norfolk […]

Lure coursing clubs should be aware of the following:  Clubs are reminded to inform the Performance Events Department if they have to cancel their event by calling: 919-816-3908 or sending  an email to:  perfcancel@akc.org. Clubs at their option can now send  copies of  their results including their Secretary Report in PDF format via email to:  performanceresults@akc.org. Clubs will then be contacted to confirm […]

All dogs 9 months of age or older from the following breeds are eligible to participate in Herding Events. Effective January 1, 2011 all dogs 6 months of age or older from the following breeds are eligible to participate in Herding Instinct Tests. AKC Recognized Breeds Australian Cattle Dog Australian Shepherd Bearded Collie Beauceron Belgian […]

All dogs six months of age or older from the following breeds are eligible to participate in Pointing Breed Hunting Tests: AKC Recognized Breeds Bracco Italiano Brittanys English Setters German Shorthaired Pointers German Wirehaired Pointers Gordon Setters Irish Red & White Setters Irish Setters Pointers Spinone Italiano Vizslas Weimaraners Wirehaired Pointing Griffons Wirehaired Vizsla FSS […]

AKC National Detection Dog Conference Returns to Durham, NC August 14, 2026 The American Kennel Club’s National Detection Dog Conference returned to Durham, North Carolina, August 4–6, 2026. The conference brought together researchers, breeders, trainers, veterinarians, law enforcement professionals, and industry experts to discuss advancements and challenges across the detection dog field. Pre-conference activities began […]

Homegrown terrorism and mass shootings have sadly become everyday news in the United States. As a result, the demand for explosives detection dogs as a deterrent against such crimes is on the increase with one major problem: there are not enough dogs to meet the growing need. The US Government purchases 80 to 90% its […]

AKC Scent Work mimics the task of working detection dogs to locate a scent and communicate that the scent has been found. It’s a positive, challenging activity that gives your dog the opportunity to use his strongest natural sense. AKC Scent Work is open to all dogs, including mixed breeds enrolled in the  AKC Canine […]

Dogs enrolled in the AKC Canine Partners™ program can compete for titles and awards in events and programs like Agility, Obedience, Rally, Tracking, Coursing Ability Tests, Fast CAT, Scent Work, Farm Dog Certified, and the Versatile Companion Dog program (recognizes dogs that title in agility, obedience & tracking). There are also training programs that your […]

December 10-11, 2026 Delegate Meeting Hotel Information September 14-15, 2026 Delegate Meeting Delegate Meeting Agenda Delegate Committee Election Packet Vote on the proposed amendment to Article XIV, Section 1 of the Charter and Bylaws of The American Kennel Club To be voted on as one amendment: Chapter 11 , Section 8 and Chapter 11, Section […]

In this section you will find information related to each AKC Delegate Meeting. December 10-11, 2026 Delegate Meeting Hotel Information September 14-15, 2026 Delegate Meeting Delegate Meeting Agenda Delegate Committee Election Packet Vote on the proposed amendment to Article XIV, Section 1 of the Charter and Bylaws of The American Kennel Club To be voted […]

This electronic Handbook was developed as a guide for all AKC Delegates. Feedback and suggestions are appreciated via our email. Welcome Letter from Board of Directors Letter from Delegate Advocacy and Advancement Committee (DAAC) The American Kennel Club History and Mission Statement Charter and Bylaws of The American Kennel Club Rules, Regulations & Policies How […]