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Expert Advice: Fitness & Exercise
From Fetch to Freestyle: Fun Ways to Exercise With Your Dog
Need new ways to get moving with your dog? Explore 11 fun activities that boost fitness and bonding, indoors or out
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/ways-to-stay-active-with-your-dog/
| February 1, 2023
Expert Advice: Breed Preservation
Study Measuring Canine Intelligence Ranks Breeds as the Smartest
What makes a dog smart? Discover how canine intelligence is defined and which dog breeds consistently rank highest.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/smartest-dog-breeds/
| March 13, 2024
Expert Advice: Breed Preservation
What Is a Breed Standard for Purebred Dogs?
You may have heard of a "breed standard" in relation to purebred dogs. But what does it mean? It's not just for conformation dog shows. Learn more!
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/purebred-dog-breed-standard/
| May 26, 2021
Expert Advice: Lifestyle
Grieving a Pet: How to Cope With the Loss of a Dog
Processing grief over a dog's death can be incredibly difficult. Here are some ways to seek support and cope with the loss while remembering a beloved pet.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/advice/grieving-a-pet/
| July 28, 2021
Expert Advice: Puppy Training
How to Teach a Puppy to Walk on a Leash
Want to teach your dog to walk on a leash without pulling? Here's a step-by-step guide on leash training for both dogs and puppies.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/teach-puppy-walk-leash/
| August 30, 2019
Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
Get to Know the Spitz Breeds
Ever heard the word spitz to describe a dog? Learn about these fascinating breeds, which are characterized by their wolf-like appearance.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/spitz-dog-breeds/
| June 14, 2021
Expert Advice: Training
Why Does My Dog Jump on Furniture?
Wondering why your dog jumps on furniture? Learn the common reasons behind this behavior and training tips to curb couch and counter surfing.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/why-does-my-dog-jump-on-furniture/
| November 12, 2019
Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
Am I Saying That Right? How to Pronounce Tricky Dog Breed Names
Some dog breeds are easy to say. Others, like the Nederlandse Kooikerhondje, are trickier. Learn proper ways to pronounce tough breed names.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/how-to-pronounce-breed-names/
| January 24, 2023
Expert Advice: Feature
Meet St. Petersburg, Florida Junior Handler Gemma Eldridge
In Florida’s competitive Junior Showmanship scene, young handlers like Gemma Eldridge must be exceptional to be noticed.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/junior-handler-spotlight-gemma-eldridge/
| April 6, 2026
Expert Advice: News
Do Dogs Have Self-Awareness?
Can dogs think about themselves? Are dogs self-aware? New research suggests that yes: dogs do have self-awareness.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/dog-self-awareness/
| April 8, 2021
Expert Advice: Health
Doxycycline for Dogs: Uses, Side Effects, and Alternatives
Can dogs take Doxycycline? Here's everything you need to know about what Doxycycline is used for in dogs. Always consult your veterinarian first.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/doxycycline-for-dogs/
| November 30, 2016
Expert Advice: Training
How to Make the Holiday Season Less Stressful for Your Dog
The holidays can be overwhelming for your dog, but they don't have to be! Utilize these tips this holiday season to reduce your dog's stress.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/holiday-tips-and-tricks/
| December 1, 2020
Expert Advice: Health
Canine CBD: What to Know
You may recognize the term CBD, which comes in many different forms. But can it be used safely for dogs? Learn more about canine CBD.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/canine-cbd/
| June 6, 2021
Expert Advice: Nutrition
How to Choose the Best Dog Food
How do you choose the best dog food for your pup? AKC's dog nutrition experts explain how to choose the best dog food diet for your dog or puppy.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/choosing-right-dog-food/
| September 28, 2021
Expert Advice: Nutrition
How Often Should Dogs Eat?
How many times a day should dogs eat? Daily feeding requirements can depend on your dog's age, breed, and energy levels. Learn more about basic guidelines.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/how-often-should-dogs-eat/
| October 13, 2020
Expert Advice: Why does my dog...
Why Do Dogs Dig? Common Reasons and How to Manage the Behavior
Digging is such a source of joy for so many dogs. Has your dog filled your yard with holes? Does your garden look like gophers had a wild party? Digging is a common problem behavior in dogs, and many dog owners suffer the consequences at some point. It can be challenging to prevent, and dangerous […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/advice/why-is-my-dog-digging/
| October 25, 2019
Expert Advice: Lifestyle
How to Inflation-Proof Your Dog’s Care
All it takes is a trip to the grocery store or gas pump to feel the sting of inflation. Inflation impacts every aspect of our lives, and dog care costs are no exception. Meeting your dog's physical, mental, and emotional needs are key elements of responsible dog ownership, and some elements become more costly as […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/inflation-dog-ownership-cost/
| October 31, 2022
Expert Advice: Recipes
How to Make Your Own Dog Paw Balm
To some dogs (especially breeds built for cold weather), there’s nothing more exciting than a romp around a snowy yard after a winter storm. But icy conditions of the yard or cold pavements can be damaging a pet’s paws. The national breed club for the Newfoundland, a large breed built for wintery work, shared a […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/how-to-make-your-own-paw-balm-for-winter/
| December 29, 2022
Clubs & Delegates
Legislative Successes
The following list highlights some of the AKC Government Relations’ (AKC GR) legislative successes through March 31, 2026. These and other victories have been won in cooperation with AKC federations, clubs, and responsible dog owners and breeders around the country who continue to work tirelessly to promote positive canine legislation in their state and community. […]
https://www.akc.org/clubs-delegates/government-relations/successes/
| March 31, 2026
Clubs & Delegates
Legislative Toolbox
Here you can access a list of AKC Government Relations resources available to help you be effective advocates for responsible dog ownership and breeding! Be sure to check back often, as we are continuously adding new items. If you have any questions about these materials, or are dealing with a canine legislation issue, please contact […]
https://www.akc.org/clubs-delegates/government-relations/toolbox/
| March 16, 2026
Sports & Events
Title Recognition Program
“A dream does not become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work.” -- Colin Powell There are many reasons to put in the time and resources necessary to earn recognition of your dog’s abilities: You might do it to show off their superior abilities; or you might do it for the personal satisfaction that […]
https://www.akc.org/sports/title-recognition-program/
| September 9, 2021
Sports & Events
Dog Show Ring Stewards
Stewarding Webster's Dictionary defines a steward to be, among other things, either "one employed to manage domestic concerns, supervise servants, collect rents, keep accounts, etc.," or "one who actively directs affairs, a manager." Dog Show Stewards Individuals should be selected for stewarding who are familiar with the most current judging procedures, breed classifications, and the […]
https://www.akc.org/sports/conformation/dog-show-ring-stewards/
| April 11, 2023
Sports & Events
Past Champions
AKC National Agility Championship Champion Teams 2026 - Temecula, CA AKC National Agility Champions 08" - MACH Welly MXB MJS XF T2B CGC, a Pembroke Welsh Corgi known as Welly, handled by Peter Wirth of Longmont, CO 12" - MACH6 Safranne's Have No Fear MXS2 PAD MJG2 PJS NF, a Poodle known as Skye, handled […]
https://www.akc.org/sports/agility/events/akc-national-agility-championship/past-champions/
| October 26, 2017
Sports & Events
AKC/Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy & Junior Stakes
The AKC/Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy & Junior Stakes is held in conjunction with the AKC National Championship presented by Royal Canin Orange County Convention Center Orlando, FL Friday, December 11, 2026 The AKC/Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy & Junior Stakes is a competition created especially for purebred dogs aged 6-18 months (Puppies 6-12 months/ […]
https://www.akc.org/sports/conformation/royal-canin-puppy-junior-stakes/
| September 21, 2022
Sports & Events
AKC National Owner-Handled Series Finals
AKC National Owner-Handled Series Finals held in conjunction with the AKC National Championship presented by Royal Canin Orange County Convention Center Orlando, Florida December 12 & 13, 2026 The AKC National Owner-Handled Series recognizes and showcases the quality dogs being exhibited by owner/handlers and provides a venue for the owner/handlers to compete against their peers. […]
https://www.akc.org/sports/conformation/national-owner-handled-series/nohs-finals/
| October 26, 2017
Sports & Events
AKC National Championship presented by Royal Canin
2026 AKC National Championship presented by Royal Canin Orange County Convention Center Orlando, FL December 12 & 13, 2026 All Sporting, Hound, Toy, Non-Sporting Breeds and Junior Showmanship Competition will be Judged on Saturday All Working, Terrier, Herding Breeds, Miscellaneous and Best in Show will be Judged on Sunday The 2026 event will showcase the top canine athletes […]
https://www.akc.org/sports/conformation/national-championship/
| November 26, 2018
Sports & Events
Diving Dogs
Will your dog do anything for his favorite toy? Have you watched him fearlessly dive into water – say, in a lake or pool? If so, he might love participating in one of the fastest growing sports, Diving Dogs! Almost any dog can do it, as long as he loves water, knows how to swim, […]
https://www.akc.org/sports/title-recognition-program/dock-diving/
| November 28, 2017
Products & Services
Title Recognition Program
“A dream does not become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work.” -- Colin Powell There are many reasons to put in the time and resources necessary to earn recognition of your dog’s abilities: You might do it to show off their superior abilities; or you might do it for the personal satisfaction that […]
https://www.akc.org/products-services/title-recognition-program/
| February 4, 2015
Pages
Breeder Programs & Services
Whether you’re breeding your first litter or next Best in Show winner, we offer invaluable resources for dog breeders, including up-to-date information, ongoing educational programs and more: Litter Registration Show you are a responsible breeder and that your puppies meet breed standards! When you register your litters with the AKC, you get a Registration Certificate […]
https://www.akc.org/breeder-programs/
| October 26, 2017
Legislative Alerts
U.S. Congress: Amendment to Farm Bill Could Threaten AKC Events & Hunt Training
An amendment to the House Farm Bill (HR 7567) proposed by animal rights groups threatens the future of AKC performance events and recognized hunt training techniques. Please join AKC and leading sportsmen’s organizations in defending responsible dog enthusiasts, sportsmen and trainers. Please contact your member of the U.S. Congress and respectfully ask Congress to remove […]
https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/u-s-congress-amendment-to-farm-bill-could-threaten-akc-events-hunt-training/
| March 31, 2026