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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

The following breeders have met the requirements for the Breed and Levels recorded at the time of the application. The American Kennel Club is pleased to recognize these breeders for their contribution to the sport and maintaining the tenets of the Breeder of Merit program. (current as of  4/1/25, last updated 4/15/25) [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Platinum"] […]

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 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.

Puppies are exciting. However, any experienced breeder will tell you they're also a lot of work. A responsible breeder prepares long in advance—to identify the purpose of the breeding; to carefully plan and research the breed, the standard, the health history, and available healthy males of good temperament; to form partnerships with their veterinarians and […]

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.

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

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.