Here at the AKC, we believe in honoring responsible breeders who have gone above and beyond on health issues, temperament, and genetic screening, as well as to the individual care and placement of puppies in responsible homes. That’s why we started the AKC Breeder of Merit Program: To give breeders a way to prove [...]

Below you’ll find additional information on the AKC’s dog and litter registration. If you have any questions, you can visit our Help Center. [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Dog Registration"] Registration Certificate When you register your dog with us, you will receive your official AKC certificate. This certificate will contain detailed information about your dog. You’ll also gain […]

Beth Kirven of West Columbia, South Carolina, has always had Sporting dogs — her first dog as an adult was an English Cocker. But once she married and had children, she decided to ditch the grooming and go for some smooth operators: namely, Pointers, acquiring her first from the late Susan Thompson of Solivia Pointers […]

Responsible dog breeders work very hard to place puppies in the right homes. Here is one story of how a breeder went about matching a family to the right Beagle puppy for them.

"Primitive," "aboriginal," "village," and "landrace" are a few of the terms archaeologists use to describe the world's oldest canine breeds. But what does it mean if a dog breed is primitive?

Fall brings its own rhythm and sounds. After the long days of summer, it is almost a relief to enjoy the gap between summer and winter. The soft rustle of leaves gliding on chilly winds, the muted sounds of birds still hanging around before undertaking their migrations, and the tinkling sounds of bells all tell […]

You already know that your puppy is the absolute cutest. So why not share his adorableness with the rest of the world? Enter him in an AKC 4-6 Month Beginner Puppy Competition. It’s a relaxed, stress-free way to make your debut in the dog show world. Plus, it gives both of you a fun way […]

AKC Breeder of Merit William Buell, III grew up in Western North Carolina. His mother and her mother always had a Chow Chow. Bill has, since he can remember, almost always had a Chow Chow in the home. When he was young, he had two that would find, hold point and flush grouse. Although he […]

Click the links below to learn about AKC's Foundation Stock Service® Program. Foundation Stock Service® Program Home FSS Checklist - updated May 2023 (PDF) FSS Pamphlet (PDF) FSS FAQs FSS News Parent Club Best Practices First Certificate of Merit Earned for Miscellaneous Breeds How to Count Certificate of Merit Points in Miscellaneous (PDF) How to Count […]

Many breeders require anyone who purchases one of their dogs to sign a contract. To some buyers, especially first timers, a contract may feel invasive; they might think that for the money they spend, they should have total control over what they do with their puppy. Explain to buyers that your contract is meant to […]