The AKC works with non-AKC service and sports organizations to recognize the titles that AKC-registered dogs earn in their programs. This includes the AKC Therapy Dog program and the AKC Search & Rescue program. AKC also recognizes titles of the Barn Hunt Association (BHA); North American Diving Dogs (NADD); the North American Flyball Association (NAFA); […]

Showing dogs—the formal term for it is “Conformation”—is a sport. Like any football game or tennis match, dog shows have rules, too. But folks who sit on the sidelines can easily become bewildered if they don’t understand how guidelines apply to the game at hand. Whether you’re taking aim at a fastball or trotting with […]

From Washington's Foxhounds to Obama's famous Portuguese Water Dogs, presidential dogs are as traditional as baseball and apple pie. Almost all of our presidents have shared the White House with a dog, and often more than one. These presidential dogs became as much a staple of the capitol as the rest of the First Family […]

On Valentine’s Day, humans give chocolate, teddy bears, and roses to our loved ones to show appreciation and affection. But what about our favorite canine companions? Here are some tips on how you can show your four-legged Valentine some love. Take a Long Walk What better way to spend Valentine’s Day with your dog than […]

GCHG CH Cherokee Legend Encore, a Bulldog known as “Star,” triumphed over more than 5,300 competitors to earn a $50,000 cash prize and the title of Best in Show at the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin, held December 17-18, 2022 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL. “Star,” owned by Alaina […]

The American Kennel Club (AKC®) is pleased to recognize its affiliated dog clubs which have been holding AKC events for over 100 years and are an essential part of the sport of dogs. Airedale Terrier Club of America Japanese Chin Club of America Airedale Terrier Club of New England Kennel Club of Buffalo American Chesapeake […]

"If I could get one idea across in my teachings, it would be that hair and fur are different and must be treated differently." So says Jennifer Bishop-Jenkins, a Certified Master Groomer with more than four decades of experience. But how do dog hair and fur actually differ from one another? Do Dogs Have Hair […]

While many of us already know we're going to overeat on Thanksgiving, we still need to apply some restraint when it comes to sharing Thanksgiving foods with our dogs. It's not just the obvious cautions—like splintering roasted turkey bones or toxic onion-filled stuffing—that are unsafe choices for your dogs. There are fatty dishes, salty dishes, […]

With its fantastic food and mouthwatering aromas, Thanksgiving is one of the most delicious days of the year. As football plays on TV and family members gather around, most of us look forward to dinner as the highlight of the day. But will your begging dog detract from the occasion? Begging is a full-time job […]

Fresh and dried cranberries are popular human snacks. Many owners may want to share these with their dogs, especially around Thanksgiving. But can dogs eat cranberries safely? The answer is both yes and no. Fresh or cooked cranberries, when plain, are not inherently toxic for dogs. When fed in moderation, they are generally safe and […]

Best of luck to the top All American Dogs who qualified for the 2022 AKC FastCAT Invitational! Should any one of the top three decline, the 4th place stand-by will be invited. All American Dogs are split according to height class (L, M, S).   Large Miss Unusual DCAT owned by Erin Boyer of Gastonia, […]

Bringing your pet to a dog-friendly restaurant allows you to spend more time together. It also offers opportunities to put into practice your dog's manners training. Only service dogs have public access to any restaurant, but some dog-friendly restaurants and outdoor dining options allow your pet to come along. But before bringing your dog along, […]

Dogs have evolved alongside people to eat a variety of foods including meat, grain, fruits, and vegetables. So, it's not surprising that when people...

All Americans in AKC Agility League Congratulations to all All Americans who competed in the pilot season of the AKC Agility League, which ran May 30 – Aug. 21. Numerous Canine Partners members placed high in the rankings and won awards in this fun program that brings a team twist to agility. Read on to […]

You may be used to seeing your dog pant in warm weather, but do dogs sweat? Contrary to popular belief, dogs do sweat, but this is only a small part of their cool-down process. How Do Dogs Sweat? Dogs only produce sweat in certain parts of their bodies. Dogs have two types of sweat glands: […]

Season 6 - Winter 2024 [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Extended Ph.D."] Winter Season Finals – Extended Ph.D. – Teams & Dogs Congratulations to all teams & dogs that completed the Winter Season! Great job! Here are the top placers for Season 6: Top Teams Champion – Happy Dog Sports Team 1 – Texas Reserve Champion – New […]

Owning a dog is a joy, privilege, and responsibility. If you are considering bringing a dog into your life, think seriously about the commitment that being a responsible dog owner entails. The AKC is committed to protecting the health and well-being of all dogs. In honor of AKC's Responsible Dog Ownership Day, on September 17th, […]

Dogs both transcend history and reflect it in a colorful, meaningful way. And that epochal and tender human-animal bond springs vividly to life in Anthony Cavo's new book Love Immortal: Antique Photographs and Stories of Dogs and Their People. Picture Perfect Cavo, a longtime antiques dealer, appraiser, and collector, has been collecting photographs since he […]

The title of Master Groomer is hard-earned through years of consistency, integrity, and support of our best friends. Yet we all have to start somewhere. We encourage you to begin the Master Groomer journey wherever you're comfortable. Are you a pro with Bichons? Then get started with the Curly coat type! It's up to you. […]

It's easy (and dangerous) for dogs to become overheated. Here's how to recognize signs of overheated dogs, how to prevent overheating, and what to do if you think you have an overheated dog.