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Expert Advice: Breed History
Sled Dog Breeds: From Arctic Exploration to the Iditarod
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.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/sled-dog-breeds-history-future/
| November 22, 2020
Expert Advice: Safety
Do Coyotes Attack Dogs? How to Protect Your Pet
With their habitats and food sources shrinking, coyotes are venturing closer to our neighborhoods, homes, and dogs than we'd like.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/coyote-attacks-protecting-dogs/
| April 12, 2022
Expert Advice: Comfort & Sleep
Dog-Friendly Decorating Tips for a Safe and Festive Holiday
Many common holiday decorations pose dangers to dogs. Celebrate with dog-friendly decorations that are both elegantly festive and safe.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/home-living/dog-friendly-holiday-decorating/
| December 2, 2020
Expert Advice: Why does my dog...
Why Does My Dog Wake Me Up?
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.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/advice/why-does-my-dog-wake-me-up/
| February 28, 2022
Expert Advice: Nutrition
Can Dogs Have Pumpkin Spice?
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.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-have-pumpkin-spice/
| October 10, 2022
Expert Advice: Grooming
Why Does My Dog Dislike Being Brushed?
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.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-not-like-being-brushed/
| February 5, 2021
Expert Advice: Grooming
How to Groom a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/how-to-groom-cavalier-king-charles-spaniel/
| January 20, 2021
Expert Advice: General Health
Dogs and Poison Ivy: Everything You Need to Know
Can dogs get poison ivy? Though the plant is extremely bothersome to humans, cases of canines being affected by poison ivy are rare.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/can-dogs-get-poison-ivy/
| May 26, 2021
Expert Advice: AKC Family Dog
Work Hard, Play Hard: Border Collies Go for It in All Phases
There are few sights more beautiful than watching a dog do the work it was bred to do, like Border Collies herding sheep.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/family-dog/work-hard-play-hard-border-collies/
| March 23, 2026
Expert Advice: Basic Training
Boundary Training: Keeping Your Dog Inside the Yard or Outside a Room
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.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/teach-dog-keep-out-boundary-training/
| December 12, 2020
Expert Advice: Safety
Tips For Keeping Your Dog Safe This Summer
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 […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/summer-safety-tips-for-dogs/
| May 20, 2019
Expert Advice: Puppy Training
The Importance of Decompression When Bringing Home a New Dog
Every puppy or dog should have ample time to decompress when entering a new home. Here's the importance of dog decompression.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/decompression-bringing-home-a-new-dog/
| January 20, 2021
Expert Advice: Natural & Whole Foods
Can Dogs Eat Spinach?
Wondering if spinach is safe for your dog? Discover the health benefits, potential risks, and specific guidance for feeding spinach to dogs.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-spinach/
| August 2, 2022
Expert Advice: Cleaning
Shedding and Pet Hair: Benefits of Vacuuming Dog Hair
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 […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/home-living/vacuums-for-dog-owners/
| September 1, 2021
Expert Advice: General Nutrition
Best Foods to Soothe Your Dog’s Upset Stomach
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.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/food-for-dogs-stomach-upset/
| June 10, 2021
Expert Advice: Can my dog...
Should You Play Tug-of-War With Your Dog? Safety Tips & Benefits
Can playing tug-of-war lead to aggression in dogs? We chatted with experts to find out the truth about this dog myth.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/advice/is-tug-of-war-bad-for-dogs/
| July 26, 2021
Expert Advice: Travel & Adventure
How to Plan for Your Dog’s Care When You Leave Town
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.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/travel/plan-for-dogs-care-when-you-leave-town/
| May 13, 2021
Expert Advice: Training
Dog Muzzles: When, Why, and How to Correctly Use Them
Learn why every dog should be muzzle trained, not just aggressive dogs or dogs with a bite history, and the types of muzzles that are available.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/dog-muzzles-when-why-how-to-use/
| September 1, 2021
Expert Advice: Common Conditions
Leptospirosis in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, Treatment
Water and soil outside can contain bacteria that can be dangerous to your dog, even causing a leptospirosis infection. What is leptospirosis in dogs?
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/leptospirosis-in-dogs/
| August 7, 2023
Expert Advice: Home & Living
Are ID Tags Enough? The Importance of Identifying Your Dog
A dog ID tag is essential, but it's not enough on its own. Read on for more information about the various ways of identifying your dog.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/home-living/id-tags-enough-importance-identifying-dog/
| August 6, 2021
Expert Advice: Basic Training
How to Crate Train Your Dog: Expert Tips for Every Age
Help your dog or puppy learn to love their crate with this expert guide to crate training, including steps, tips, and common mistakes to avoid.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/crate-training/
| September 15, 2023
Expert Advice: General Health
Do Dogs Need Sunscreen?
Just like people, dogs are prone to sunburn and other diseases associated with UV exposure. Here's what you should know about dog sunscreen and dog sunburn.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/do-dogs-need-sunscreen/
| May 25, 2021
Expert Advice: Basic Training
Retractable Dog Leashes: When and How to Use Them Safely
A retractable dog leash can be convenient, but dog owners often use these leashes in the wrong circumstances or before the dog is ready.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/retractable-dog-leashes-use-safely/
| March 22, 2022
Expert Advice: Travel & Adventure
How to Keep Your Dog Comfortable During Car Rides
Along with keeping your dog safe in the car, be sure the experience is stress-free too. Here's how to keep your dog comfortable during car rides.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/travel/dog-comfortable-car-rides/
| July 27, 2021
Expert Advice: Training for Dog Sports
Get Started in Dog Agility at Home
There are plenty of things you can try at home to prepare your dog for agility obstacles and gauge your interest and their enthusiasm for the activity.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/practice-agility-at-home/
| July 22, 2022
Legislative Alerts
Urgent Illinois Alert: House Committee Considering Strict Breeder Rules on Tuesday (3/24)
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 […]
https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/urgent-illinois-alert-house-committee-considering-strict-breeder-rules-on-tuesday-3-24/
| March 20, 2026
Legislative Alerts
Minnesota: Second Pet Shop Sales Ban Bill to be Heard Friday, 3/20/26
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 […]
https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/minnesota-second-pet-shop-sales-ban-bill-to-be-heard-friday-3-20-26/
| March 17, 2026
Legislative Alerts
Massachusetts: Pet Choice Restrictions Set for Floor Vote Thursday, 3/19
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, […]
https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/massachusetts-pet-choice-restrictions-set-for-floor-vote-thursday-3-19/
| March 16, 2026
Legislative Alerts
Illinois: Strict Breeder Rules Advancing – Contact Senators Now
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 […]
https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/illinois-strict-breeder-rules-advancing-contact-senators-now/
| March 13, 2026
Clubs & Delegates
State Updates March 2026
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 […]
https://www.akc.org/clubs-delegates/government-relations/newsletters/taking-command/state-updates-march-2026/
| March 19, 2026