Not every child is eager to follow in their family's footsteps. But third-generation owner-handlers Taylor and Cameron Johnson are keen to make their marks in the dog show world. These Junior Handlers from Colorado Springs, Colorado, work with Old English Sheepdogs and Bouvier des Flandres, which their parents and paternal grandparents also breed, show, and […]

This week, animal rights/ “protection” groups are actively lobbying Congress to restrict and limit the activities of dog breeders. They are making unsupported claims that there are “tens of thousands of puppy mills” in the United States, and asking members of Congress to advance arbitrary, one-size-fits-all mandates that could require small hobby breeders to place […]

News from the State Capitols Here are some highlights of state-level issues AKC GR is currently tracking. Alabama – SB 2 seeks to prohibit inmates from participating in training of dogs for tracking humans. AKC is monitoring this legislation, which has not yet received a committee assignment. Arkansas – HB 1591, a bill supported by AKC that limits a local […]

AKC Government Relations continues to monitor Congress for issues of interest to dog owners. Visit our 2023 Legislation Tracking map and click on “Federal Bills” on the map to get the latest updates on federal bills currently being monitored by the AKC. Highlights of issues we are currently addressing on the federal level include: U.S. Congress – HR […]

Humans often try new trending diets to help them lose weight. If you want to help your dog shed some few pounds though, should you try intermittent fasting, and is it safe for dogs?

We are reaching out to you because your representative in the U.S. Congress sponsored the Puppy Protection Act last year. This bill to restrict dog breeding has been re-introduced in Congress again this year. Your action is urgently needed to contact your member of Congress and respectfully ask them to not sponsor or support the […]

Arbitrary federal legislation to restrict the activities of dogs breeders has been re-introduced in Congress.  Though labeled as commercial breeding regulations, the one-size-fits-all requirements can also apply to small hobby breeders.  Your action is urgently needed to stop the animal-rights supported Puppy Protection Act (H.R. 1624) and to protect the rights of responsible dog breeders […]

AKC Government Relations continues to monitor Congress for issues of interest to dog owners. Visit our 2023 Legislation Tracking map and click on “Federal Bills” on the map to get the latest updates on federal bills currently being monitored by the AKC. Highlights of issues we are currently addressing on the federal level include: U.S. Congress – […]

News from the State Capitols Here are some highlights of state-level issues AKC GR is currently tracking. Alabama – SB 2 seeks to prohibit inmates from participating in training of dogs for tracking humans. AKC is monitoring this legislation, which has not yet received a committee assignment. Arkansas – HB 1420, among other provisions, defines […]

The bills for this year’s legislative session continue to come in fast and furious. At the state level, we are seeing an abundance of ‘bond for care’ bills, breeder regulation bills, and retail pet sales bans, among other topics. On the federal level, we’ve seen we the reintroduction of the highly problematic Puppy Protection Act […]

Egg hunts are a springtime tradition, but don't let kids have all the fun! Create an egg hunt for your dog for a simple, fun scent game your pup will love.

Congratulations! You’ve taken the plunge and joined the exciting and sometimes chaotic world of dog ownership. By now, you’ve probably done some research and have an understanding of how to care for your new puppy. Your house is going to be the place where your dog spends the majority of their life, so it’s vitally […]

Many of our favorite Easter treats and traditions can be dangerous for our dogs, but with some prep, you'll be able to enjoy the day and keep your dog safe.

For one dog, her owners, and her handler, it's been a journey through two countries and many states to make their Agility dreams a reality.

What happens when you and your dog are injured? If you're anything like Connie Griffith and her Poodle, Streak, you get back up and you keep going.

It all started with Susan. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi was a gift to the then-Princess Elizabeth, eldest daughter of King George VI, for her 18th birthday. Registered as “Hickathrift Pippa,” the dog at first went by Sue, which evolved into Susan. Susan and Elizabeth became so attached to one another that Susan accompanied the princess […]

From sporting dogs to toy breeds, show dogs must look the part. “Miss America does not just sit on the couch eating potato chips before a pageant,” says Susan Hamil, a veteran of the dog show world. “It’s the same for show dogs.” Hamil, a judge and fancier of Bloodhounds, is one of the four […]

News from the State Capitols Here are some highlights of state-level issues AKC GR is currently tracking. Alabama – SB 2 as pre-filed seeks to prohibit inmates from participating in training of dogs for tracking humans. AKC is monitoring this legislation. California – AB-240: This proposal would create a tax on the sale of pet […]

Love is in the air during the month of February, and many dog owners find their “true love” in a canine companion, warming their laps and their hearts. To help keep those hearts happy and healthy, dogs and humans alike benefit from a daily walk or play time in the yard. However, there are many […]

Food poisoning is actually more common than is generally suspected in both dogs and people. While usually not life-threatening, it can still wreak havoc on your pet's digestion. Here is what to look out for and how to prevent food poisoning in your dog. Can Dogs Get Food Poisoning? Dogs do get food poisoning, an […]

Valentine's Day isn't just for exchanging candy hearts and cards with people you love. You can also celebrate Valentine's Day with your dog. Give them a special toy or treat, take them for a long walk, or cuddle on the couch. However you choose to celebrate Valentine's Day, be aware that many holiday traditions can […]

If you're looking to help your dog to get more experience with Scent Work, consider practicing on walks. Bringing your scents with you while away from home can help your pet gain a deeper understanding of Scent Work and build their search skills. Make Sure Your Dog Is Ready for Scent Work Before starting to […]

Good grooming will help your dog look and feel their best. Routine grooming sessions also allow you to examine your dog's coat, teeth, eyes, ears, and nails for signs of problems. How often you need to groom your dog depends on their size, breed, and type of coat. While good hygiene habits are essential for […]

Each year, approximately six million new cancer diagnoses are made in dogs, according to the National Cancer Institute. It's estimated that one in four dogs will develop cancer in their lifetime. Cancer is also the leading cause of death in dogs who are past middle age. "Although we have little control over some of the […]

If you're feeling ill, there's nothing better than cuddling with your dog to improve your spirits. But what if your symptoms include a sore throat, and you're diagnosed with strep? Can dogs get strep throat? If so, is strep throat in dogs contagious to people? Strep throat, an infection marked by swollen tonsils and difficulty […]

"I host a lot of get-togethers in my home and my dog “works the room” begging for treats. Most of my guests know not to feed him, but I’m nervous he’ll lap up the alcoholic beverages left unattended without my knowledge. How much alcohol is too much? Are some alcohols more dangerous to dogs than […]

Anti-breeder and animal rights groups are making a year-end push on Capitol Hill to advance arbitrary and harmful federal breeder regulations (H.R. 2840 /S. 1385)  called the “Puppy Protection Act”.  This bill would mandate arbitrary new requirements for certain hobby and professional dog breeders, and continues to gain support Congress.  We urge all responsible dog […]

If someone asked you to describe what a headache feels like, you might use words such as "pressure," "throbbing," or "a dull ache." Now imagine what it's like for your dog who can't tell you where it hurts and how long they've been having symptoms. Veterinarians agree that it's possible for dogs to get headaches […]

In humans, studies have demonstrated that a genetic component can influence whether you like or dislike this herb. But would a dog enjoy the same treat? Cilantro leaves are safe for dogs to eat in moderation. Can Dogs Have Cilantro? Although eating this herb does not replace brushing teeth and professional dental cleanings, cilantro can […]

When you bring a puppy home, you usually know their birthday and exact age. However, estimating the age of a dog rescued from a shelter can be difficult. Why does knowing your dog's age matter? "The reason it's important to estimate your dog's age is that age influences so many aspects of your dog's quality […]