From contract obligations and health updates to training support and sharing milestones, staying in touch with your puppy’s breeder can benefit you both.

From the Dalmatian Club of America breed column in the March 2016 AKC Gazette “I only breed for myself” is a phrase I’ve heard frequently over the years. It does sound rather noble: I’m not in it for the money, I’m not filling shelters with surplus dogs, and most importantly, I’m not a backyard breeder/puppy […]

What tugs at our hearts more than an adorable Chihuahua peeking out of Reese Witherspoon’s purse in the movie Legally Blonde? Perhaps it is the sight of puppies glee­ fully romping through scenes in 101 Dalmatians, or the exploits of Otis, the endearing Pug, in The Adventures of Milo and Otis. Dogs occupy a treasured […]

Getting a puppy is a big decision that shouldn't be taken lightly. Have this list of questions handy to get to know your breeder and your potential puppy.

Purebred dogs are symbols of the people and places that brought them into being. Every year, they're celebrated on National Purebred Dog Day.

So, you think you want a dog? Before adding a canine companion to your family, you should give careful thought to what it means to be a responsible dog owner. I know I had to. When I was a little kid, my family was not animal-oriented, but I was obsessed with animals, especially dogs. I […]

Labrador Retriever puppy. Courtesy Barra Labradors Bringing a dog into your life is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. It is a serious commitment to care for an individual who will rely on you completely—for food, shelter, health, and happiness—for a decade or more. In exchange, this puppy or adult dog […]

Have you been watching dog shows on TV and always dreamed about having your own show dog? Here's some tips on finding your own show dog.

It’s a new year and legislatures in all 50 states are – or will soon be – in session and deliberating on bills on a broad range of issues. Already, AKC Government Relations has seen several hundred bills across the country with the potential to impact dog owners and breeders – and we need your […]

Promoting excellence in breeding through education and health testing, the AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. program is available to all breeders.  There is no enrollment fee, and signing up is easy via the online application. H.E.A.R.T stands for Health, Education, Accountability, Responsibility, and Tradition.   Health:  Breeders must meet specific health testing standards Education:  Breeders must […]

Header photo courtesy of Nancy Bishop, AKC Breeder of Merit The decision to get a puppy is a big one. First, there's deciding what kind of puppy you want, choosing a breed, and then, finding a reputable and professional breeder to ensure you are getting the dog of your dreams. And finding the right breeder […]

A very attractive 50-something year old woman took her seat beside me on the plane. Within a few minutes, she looked at the carry-on bag under my seat and said, "What's in the bag?" I thought it was an odd question, but I replied. "A sandwich and some books." She began to laugh. "I'm so […]

Adding a puppy to your family is a big decision that comes with lots of preparation. An interview with your prospective pup's breeder is a big part of that.

What dog breed works for you? We're here to guide you along the process of picking the best dog for your individual personality and lifestyle.

Owning a dog is a joy, privilege, and responsibility. If you are considering bringing a dog into your life, think seriously about the commitment that being a responsible dog owner entails. The AKC is committed to protecting the health and well-being of all dogs. AKC celebrates Responsible Dog Ownership Day on September 17th each year, […]

AKC Live! is a new, weekly dog-centric entertainment news show that airs on AKC.TV. Hosted by sportscaster Sam Ryan, the show brings together the world of dog sports, lifestyle tips and fun news that is engaging and uplifting. Each show is full of useful information, heartwarming stories and more. AKC Live! is the flagship show […]

Summer is winding down and many legislatures are in recess or have adjourned, but AKC Government Relations (AKC GR) has remained extremely busy working around the country to protect the rights of dog owners and educate legislators on canine legislation issues. AKC GR is pleased to announce that there have been numerous legislative victories as […]

What’s New from AKC Government Relations The AKC Government Relations team is off to a busy start for 2021. Currently, 47 state legislatures are in session and many dog-related bills have already been introduced. Congress has been busy with organizing with new leadership, the impeachment, COVID and budgetary issues.  So far this year, AKC GR […]

Last year, AKC GR tracked more than 2,100 bills and regulatory acts with the potential to affect dogs and dog owners. Success in protecting the rights of dog owners and ensuring the well-being of dogs is achieved through the hard work of dedicated owners, breeders, sportsmen, and exhibitors who take action. What was very clear […]

This past month, AKC GR staff had the privilege of escorting a local New Jersey lawmaker around the prestigious Morris and Essex show.  This was an excellent opportunity for the lawmaker to see firsthand the true value of AKC shows – from the celebration of purebred dogs and quality breeding, to responsible pet ownership, to […]