Laurie Green has been breeding English Springer Spaniels for 40 years and Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens for six. She adores these people-loving dogs.

Game of Thrones may be over, but dogs and dog lovers around the world are still feeling the show's repercussions. For eight years, more than 30 million viewers watched dire wolves protect the Stark family. For many viewers, Ghost, Summer, Nymeria and pack's intelligence, fierce loyalty, and imposing stature were more than entertaining: it inspired them […]

Rat Terrier "Shazam!" is a godsend to the Pautlers. He's also taking the Agility world by storm, competing at the 2025 AKC National Agility Championship.

Linda Grems has been a dog breeder in Miniature Pinschers for over two decades. Now a mentor, Grems got her start in the breed through Min Pin mentors.

Wondering how long dogs are in heat? Learning about the length of the cycle stages will help you provide proper care and prevent unplanned pregnancy.

Visit a Conformation dog show, and you'll see hundreds of dogs groomed to the max and striking a well-trained pose. But there are different types of shows.

About the Breeder of Merit Program The AKC Breeder of Merit program celebrates breeders who go above and beyond to prioritize the health, temperament, and well-being of their puppies. This program recognizes those dedicated to maintaining breed standards and ensuring their AKC-registerable puppies find loving homes.  As a Breeder of Merit, you’ll show your commitment […]

An essential part of the commitment to the Breeder of Merit program is to ensure 100% of the puppies in your litters are individually AKC registered. Your work as a breeder is vital to upholding our mission, and you play a crucial role in preserving the legacy of your beloved breed. This is why, as […]

As a Breeder of Merit, you’ll play a key role in advancing our mission and setting a strong example for breeders everywhere. We’re excited to honor breeders who prioritize puppy health, temperament, and breed standards by offering a range of exclusive, valuable benefits, including:  Monthly credits for online reports in AKC Breeder Toolkit  Free litter […]

Here’s everything you’ll need prior to joining the Breeder of Merit program:  Have a history of at least 5 years involvement with AKC events  Can demonstrate a commitment to individually registering 100 percent of the puppies you’ve bred Have earned either AKC Conformation, Performance, or Companion* event titles on at least four dogs from AKC […]