Ziggy, an 11-year-old Standard Poodle, overcomes cancer and an ear tumor to compete at the AKC Obedience Classic with joyful determination.

Rocco, a Siberian Husky, goes once a month to meet Richard Orea of Homeboy Puppy Fades Pet Grooming Salon for a clean start.

Does your dog produce an excessive amount of drool? It could be perfectly normal for the type of breed or it could be a sign of something more serious.

The world of dog shows, or conformation, has a unique set of language and terminology. Learn what some of the words you hear at dog shows actually mean.

Socialization is an important part of puppyhood. Learn advice and tips for setting up a puppy playdate with dogs outside your household.

Those small, sturdy dogs with their regal bearing and long, gorgeous coats are adorable. But have you ever wondered which breed you're admiring? The Shih Tzu (pronounced "sheed-zoo" or "sheet-su") or the Lhasa Apso? To the untrained eye, it can be hard to tell these two dogs apart, especially in full coat. But in fact, […]

You've got your passport ready, hotel booked, and bags ready. Now, there's just one thing left to do: find a kennel where your dog can have a vacation of their own while you're away. In This Article Scheduling Kennel Tours Daily Activities at the Kennel Health & Safety Requirements Trial Runs and What to Expect […]

Pododermatitis in dogs describes inflammation of the paws. We spoke with a veterinary dermatologist to understand the causes and treatment options.

Giant dogs are some of the hardest-working and most recognizable breeds. But because many of them maintain the strong working instincts and drive they were bred for, they can be a lot to handle. Here are some things to keep in mind if you're considering adding one to your family. Maturation Giant dogs are giant […]

Like humans, dogs lose water and electrolytes through sweat, urination, vomiting, and diarrhea. Out of the options to rehydrate, is Pedialyte good for dogs?

Parvo in puppies is unfortunately a common disease with deadly consequences. Here's what to know about parvo in puppies and protecting your dog.

It's easy to panic when you see something on your dog's eye, especially if it's a large pink or reddish bump, which could be cherry eye in dogs.

Finding the right dog match for you from 202 breeds can be daunting. That's one of the best reasons to attend AKC Meet the Breeds!

If you have made the decision to breed your bitch, congratulations, welcome… and take a deep breath! You are about to embark on an ambitious, demanding pursuit. It requires time, study, hard work and emotional fortitude. Here's everything you need to know about preparing for your first litter. First Things First Because your puppy buyers […]

Looking for the perfect name for your new puppy? Consider some of the most famous dog names from movies, TV shows, and history.

Meet the only Norwegian Buhund competing in the 2025 AKC Rally National Championships

Choose a dog training class or facility carefully for your dog or puppy since it's a big decision. Here's what to consider before enrolling your dog.

How often do dogs go into heat? What does a dog's heat cycle look like? Learn more about the signs of a dog in heat, and how to care for dogs in heat.

Loyal, courageous, and always up for a good game, Boxers never shy away from showing off their silly side. Learn more about Boxer history.

The Dogo Argentino's history goes back to mid-1920s when a teenager had a vision of the ultimate big-game hunting dog. Learn more about the breed's origins.

There are so many reasons to fall in love with a Boxer. Consider that powerful body, expressive face, clownish sense of humor, innate intelligence, and intense attachment to their owners. If you haven’t fallen in love yet, some of these interesting Boxer facts may do the trick. Even seasoned Boxer owners may learn a few […]

Rottweilers are superb guard dogs. And with training, they're also lovable sweethearts. Think you know the breed? Here are some Rottweiler fun facts!

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 Masters Agility Championship (MACH) MACH Racing On Arrows Edge MXB MJB MXF T2B2 owned by Nicole Shaffer of Colorado Springs, CO  In 2018, […]

Effective January 1, 2010 Miscellaneous breeds became eligible to compete for the Certificate of Merit.  Congratulations to the first recipients of this new title. Russell Terrier, Frayed Knot Spike, was the first of the eligible breeds to earn a Certificate of Merit in May 2010. SPECIAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT The breeds listed below were top point holders […]

Each of the AKC registered breeds are assigned to one of seven groups representing characteristics and functions the breeds were originally bred for. Current as of June 17, 2025 [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Herding Group"] HERDING GROUP The Herding Group, created in 1983, is the newest AKC classification; its members were formerly members of the Working Group. […]

Test for what is recommended for your breed. Order AKC DNA + Health Kit The AKC DNA Program recommends that breeders perform DNA tests that are relevant to their breed. The AKC DNA + Health Kit includes over 328 markers for health and traits, and every dog receives results for all tests. However, not all […]

The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) is pleased to announce the judging panel for the 25th AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin to be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida on Saturday, December 13 and Sunday, December 14, 2025. The 2025 event will showcase the top canine athletes and will also […]

The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) is pleased to announce the judging panel for 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 AKC Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy and Junior […]

Titles Earned in AKC Activities, Organized by Sport and Title Progression the # symbol behind the title abbreviation indicates that title can be earned multiple times, and will carry a numeric designation [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Agility Titles"] Class Abbrev. Title Name Abbrev. Title Name (Preferred Track) Prefix or Suffix ACT ACT1 Agility Course Test 1 Suffix […]

The colossal Mastiff belongs to a canine clan as ancient as civilization itself. A massive, heavy-boned dog of courage and prodigious strength, the Mastiff is docile and dignified but also a formidable protector of those they hold dear.