While all dogs should have a basic soundness, their construction varies depending on breed and purpose. Understanding a dog's conformation requires looking at the canine from all angles. Even though there is nothing you can do to change your current dog's genetics, you can prevent injury and work on strengthening weak areas. Let's be honest: […]

Do all dogs need a winter coat? If so, what are the best winter coats for dogs? We break down our favorites for dogs of all sizes and breeds.

American-made and a long-kept secret of South Carolina, Boykin Spaniel History goes back to the early 1900s. Today, the breed is seen across the South.

The smallest of the retrievers, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is an intelligent obedience dog. Read more about the history of this peerless gundog.

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is an American original who embodies the classic traits of a retriever. Learn more about this breed's history.

Whether you're traveling the world or simply going to the vet, a dog carrier is a useful tool that prioritizes your pet's comfort and safety. A dog carrier (or travel crate) keeps your dog safe while riding in a vehicle and makes it possible for your small dog to fly on most commercial airlines. Yet, […]

When you think of dog shows what most people picture is the sport of Conformation. Handlers make Confirmation look easy, but there's training involved.

German Wirehaired Pointers are loving and enthusiastic gundogs that make versatile hunting partners or eager companions for dog sports. Here are some German Wirehaired Pointer fun facts to help you get to know them better. GWPs Are Members of the Sporting Group Like their fellow breeds in the Sporting Group, they’re likable, energetic, and alert. […]

There are plenty of things you can try at home to prepare your dog for agility obstacles and gauge your interest and their enthusiasm for the activity.

Do you enjoy teaching your dog obedience skills? Then, the sport of AKC Rally might be for you! Here's how to train for the sport at home.

Much of the Clumber’s early history is lost in a tangled web of folklore and conflicting information. Here's what we know about this amiable breed.

The American Kennel Club met for the first time on September 17th 1884 in Philadelphia. 140 years later, we've become the trusted experts on all things dog.

Your dog's name reflects their personality and helps you effectively communicate with them. But how do you choose the perfect name? Here are some tips.

Consider your dog's activity level, overall health, and personality, then check out this list of fun backyard games to play with your dog.

The adorable Bichon Frise is among the canine kingdom’s great survivors, relying on charm and intelligence to weather history’s ups and downs.

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...

They are two of the most well-known and beloved breeds – the Labrador Retriever and the Golden Retriever. In fact, the active Labrador is the most popular breed based on AKC registration statistics, an honor they've held since 1991. And devoted Goldens aren't far behind, ranking number four in 2020. You might be familiar with […]

Even young puppies can benefit from age-appropriate agility training and preparation. Read on for how you can get your pup ready to jump into dog agility.

Header photo courtesy of Christina Phillips, AKC Breeder of Merit The Irish Red and White Setter is not as well known as his dazzling cousin, the Irish Setter, with only about 500 dogs in North America. Even in Ireland, the breed nearly went extinct during World War I. It took the dedication of a handful […]

It's difficult to choose the right pet for your family. Why not consider the Golden Retriever, one of America's most popular breeds?

We have some big news to report about All-Americans succeeding at earning the top titles and honors in Agility, Coursing Ability, Fast CAT, Rally, Obedience, Scent Work, Tracking, and Trick Dog! AGILITY Congratulations to these dogs on earning the Agility Grand Champion title: AGCH MACH3 PACH Resq's Dopamine Rush BN RN MXG PAD MJC PJD […]

[accordion] [accordion_panel title="2024"] AKC Detection Dog Task Force Hosts National Conference to Address Shortage of U.S. Bred and Raised Detection Dogs August 2024 Explosives detection dogs play a crucial role in U.S. safety and security at home and abroad, but unlike other vital national security tools, the United States is importing approximately 85-90% of its […]

Why is there a shortage of domestic detection dogs? Following the events of 9-11, the demand for scent detection dogs for use in search and rescue, as well as explosives detection, began to grow and has steadily risen since. Recent events, including the bombings in Brussels, Boston, Las Vegas and New York City, have accelerated […]

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. […]

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 […]

This article was originally published on Foxnews.com  While the zika virus poses worrisome human health concerns, another potential health problem is brewing that threatens both humans and domesticated animals --the importing of foreign dogs for adoption. Many people are unaware that the U.S. has become something of a favored nation for countries looking to export their […]

The American Kennel Club (AKC) will honor Forrest and Charlotte Lucas with the inaugural AKC Award for Outstanding Leadership in Canine Policy. The award will be presented at the 2016 AKC National Championship Dog Show presented by Royal Canin in Orlando, Florida, December 17-18, 2016. The new AKC award is designed to honor those who […]

A document released last week provides clarification and guidance on the USDA Retail Pet Store Rule and the Importation of Live Dogs Rule. This guidance contains no new policy changes, but highlights federal licensing requirements for individuals and groups that distribute or transport pets for transfer or sale within the United States. USDA licensing is […]

There’s an old expression, “if you want a friend in Washington, get a dog”. Last week, members of Congress and their staff got to meet many new friends. At a reception hosted by the American Kennel Club in honor of National Purebred Dog Day, members of Congress, staff and guests celebrated the many positive aspects […]

During its informal session on Thursday, September 12, the Massachusetts House of Representatives agreed to an amended version of “Ollie’s Law” that had previously been adopted by the Senate on July 31, 2024.  The bill now awaits Governor Maura Healy’s signature or veto. HISTORY As originally worded, Ollie’s Law would have undermined Massachusetts purebred dog […]