A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away … A young aspiring filmmaker owned a dog. She was just a pet, but this big, fuzzy friend would turn out to be one of the most influential animals, ever. As the filmmaker, George Lucas, tells it, here’s what happened. “I had an Alaskan Malamute […]

It goes without saying that in your house, your dog is the most popular. But what do the statistics say? The American Kennel Club has used registration data to compile the list of 2021’s most popular breeds. As always, the Labrador Retriever tops the list — this time for the 31st year!  The Lab's temperament […]

The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) is pleased to announce the judging panel for the 2022 AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin to be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida on Saturday, December 17 and Sunday, December 18, 2022. The 2022 event will showcase the top canine athletes and will also […]

When most people first see Hex, a 7-year-old Samoyed, they might think she's just really good at winking. In reality, she's just good at seeing out of one eye, having the other removed in 2018 due to glaucoma. Despite the odds, she and owner Mary Drexler still compete in AKC Rally, Obedience, and Agility, placing […]

2021 is rapidly drawing to a close. This year, I achieved a few of the things on my 2021 New Year’s resolution list! My first pledge for 2021 was to walk into the year with an open heart, mind and spirit of kindness towards every person and to do it with my dog by my […]

You would think picking out a leash and collar for your new puppy is a simple enough task — until you walk into a pet store and are met with an overwhelming number of options. Which is better for my puppy: collar or harness? What are all these different types of collars and harnesses for, […]

    Breed Rank Retrievers (Labrador) 1 German Shepherd Dogs 2 Retrievers (Golden) 3 French Bulldogs 4 Bulldogs 5 Poodles 6 Beagles 7 Rottweilers 8 Pointers (German Shorthaired) 9 Pembroke Welsh Corgis 10 Dachshunds 11 Yorkshire Terriers 12 Australian Shepherds 13 Boxers 14 Siberian Huskies 15 Cavalier King Charles Spaniels 16 Great Danes 17 Miniature […]

If you live in a region with harsh winter weather, then you may want to consider a spitz breed. Many of these dogs were bred for life in arctic climates and originated in Scandinavia, Russia, North America, and Asia. The word “spitz” in German means "pointed." Physically, most spitz breeds have a wolf-like appearance that […]

How long can you keep your dog outside? Here we explore just how to determine when it's time to call your dog back inside after a day of outdoor fun.

If you’ve ever seen your dog panting in the summer, you know it’s because she’s trying to cool down. Or, if you have a breed such as a Pug or Bulldog, you’ve most likely seen your dog pant frequently. This heavy breathing is normal, due to their short snouts. However, there may be other, more […]

The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) is pleased to announce the judging panels for the 2021 National Owner-Handled Series (NOHS) Finals and the AKC Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy and Junior Stakes to be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida in conjunction with the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin. The […]

There are many unique jobs for dogs to do, ranging from ancient traditions to modern tasks. Learn about unusual ways dogs have helped people in the past and still help others today.

Among inexperienced dog seekers, one question looms early in the process of finding that perfect puppy. Pet or show dog? This is an inquiry often asked by breeders, but you may find yourself wondering, "how should I know?" Of course, every puppy will fulfill that first category as a loyal companion. And hopefully, they'll be […]

For the most updated statistics, check out the latest rankings of America's most popular dog breeds. Is your dog’s breed winning popularity contests this year? Now you can find out! The most popular dog breeds of 2020 were released on March 16, 2021, based on American Kennel Club registration statistics. America continues its love affair […]

The smiling foxlike face of the Pomeranian is a hallmark of the breed. It makes these bold and adorable dogs irresistible. But there is another breed with an equally sweet foxy face that you might not know as well – the Keeshond (pronounced kayz-hawnd). The Keeshond shares many qualities with the Pomeranian including love of […]

In its endless pursuit to recognize outstanding members of the fancy, The American Kennel Club Lifetime Achievement Awards were created and first awarded in 1999 to honor our best. The purpose of the awards is to celebrate those individuals whose many years of dedication have led to significant contributions to our sport on a national […]

Do dog owners need to be concerned about frostbite? The simple answer is yes. Like humans, dogs can get frostbite. Frostbite is tissue damage that can occur in extreme cold. Dogs are at risk once the temperature falls below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Just like with humans, frostbite is a dog’s natural process where blood is […]

The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) is pleased to announce the judging panel for the 2021 AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin to be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida on Saturday, December 18 and Sunday, December 19, 2021. The 2021 event will showcase the top canine athletes and will also […]

Kalamals Kennel is a family-run show kennel in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, where Eric and Julie Kalamaja have been cherishing and sharing their lives with their beautiful Alaskan Malamutes since 1988. Their focus is on health, temperament, longevity and total well-being, producing happy and affectionate companions, as well as champion show dogs. AKC: […]

The 2020 AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin on Dec. 12 and 13 hosted 3,680 dogs who all competed for the coveted title of Best in Show. The competition began with each dog competing for best in their breed. Best in Group Best of Breed winners then advanced to compete in the group competitions. Each […]