Have a new puppy? Are they suddenly afraid? There's a lot to get used to and prepare for, but one thing that often gets overlooked is puppy fear periods.

No matter where you live, there are some easy ways to practice Obedience indoors from the comfort of your house or apartment.

Ever wondered why your dog likes to hide under the bed or tables in your home? It can be common behavior, but some reasons are more concerning than others.

Should you let your dog sleep with you? There are historical precedents, and while there may be potential issues, there are plenty of benefits, too.

Roommates and dogs can live comfortably together, but it's important to start everyone off with positive introductions. Here's how.

Although most puppies are dog social, in adulthood most dogs become dog selective or dog tolerant. Some may even become dog reactive.

How do you know if your dog is happy? Here's what to look for in your dog's body language, behavior, and breed characteristics.

Sled dog breeds have helped humans survive in the Arctic for millennia. Learn more about the work these breeds have done and the sports they participate in today.

With their habitats and food sources shrinking, coyotes are venturing closer to our neighborhoods, homes, and dogs than we'd like.

Many common holiday decorations pose dangers to dogs. Celebrate with dog-friendly decorations that are both elegantly festive and safe.

If you've ever asked "Why does my dog wake me up?" there are lots of possible answers to that question. Learn about why your dog may wake you up and how to redirect unwanted behaviors to more positive ones.

Can dogs have pumpkin spice? This seasoning mix, and foods containing it, aren't safe for dogs, but you can give your dog pure pumpkin or dog treats with pumpkin as an ingredient.

Does your puppy keep going potty in their crate? Here's how to figure out what might be behind this behavior, as well as how to prevent it.

If your dog doesn't like being brushed, don't worry. Here's why your dog may be acting out and here's how to get your dog more comfortable being brushed.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel's medium-long luscious coat and silky, feathery ears signal royalty. Here's how to groom a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

Can dogs get poison ivy? Though the plant is extremely bothersome to humans, cases of canines being affected by poison ivy are rare.

There are few sights more beautiful than watching a dog do the work it was bred to do, like Border Collies herding sheep.

Boundary training teaches your dog to stay in or out of certain areas. Here's how to boundary train your dog with tips from AKC's dog training experts.

Summer is the time to have outdoor fun with our dogs. Longer walks in the park, ambitious hikes, beach days, or family travel—the sun is shining, and the outdoors is calling. But hot weather can also make us uncomfortable, and it poses special risks for dogs. From increased exposure to ticks and other insects to […]

Every puppy or dog should have ample time to decompress when entering a new home. Here's the importance of dog decompression.

Wondering if spinach is safe for your dog? Discover the health benefits, potential risks, and specific guidance for feeding spinach to dogs.

There's no greater joy in life than having a dog. There's also no task more daunting than continuously vacuuming their hair. Still, you don't have to live with fur clinging to your floors, couch, and clothes. Instead, you can purchase a pet vacuum that's designed to suck up those hairballs and reduce indoor allergens. Not […]

Does your dog have an upset stomach? Learn which foods can help soothe your dog’s tummy, plus what to avoid and when to call the vet.

Can playing tug-of-war lead to aggression in dogs? We chatted with experts to find out the truth about this dog myth.

How can you make sure your dog is well cared for if you travel? Here's everything you need to know about preparing for your dog's care when you leave town.

On Tuesday (March 24), the Illinois House Agriculture and Conservation Committee will consider a bill that would impose extensive new requirements on licensed dog breeders. This bill is identical to SB 2990 considered last week in the Senate and applies “one-size-fits-all” commercial-style standards to all breeders (Under Illinois law, a dog breeder is anyone who […]

Minnesota Senate File 1943, which seeks to prohibit pet shops from selling dogs and cats, is scheduled to be considered by the Senate Judiciary and Public Safety Committee on Friday, March 20, 2026.  Pet shops that have been open for at least one year would be grandfathered.  The American Kennel Club (AKC) opposes SF 1943 […]

On Thursday, March 19, the Massachusetts Senate is scheduled to consider Senate Bill 2720 , which seeks to prohibit pet shops from selling dogs, cats, and rabbits; and Senate Bill 3014, which, in addition to banning the retail sales of dogs and cats at pet shops, would also allow responsible pet ownership in public housing, […]

On Thursday, March 12, the Illinois Senate Agriculture Committee heard Senate Bill 2990, which would place extensive new requirements on those licensed as dog breeders by the state. SB 2990 passed out of the Senate Agriculture Committee by a narrow vote of 7–6. Thank you to the dog owners and club members who contacted the […]

41 legislatures and the District of Columbia are in session. The following are highlights of current, active legislation around the country: Arizona – SB 1462 mandates comprehensive, standardized training for Arizona animal control officers, focusing on legal and animal welfare topics. The bill missed legislative deadlines and will not advance this year. AKC monitored this […]