The American Kennel Club met for the first time on September 17th 1884 in Philadelphia. 140 years later, we've become the trusted experts on all things dog.

During its informal session on Thursday, September 12, the Massachusetts House of Representatives agreed to an amended version of “Ollie’s Law” that had previously been adopted by the Senate on July 31, 2024.  The bill now awaits Governor Maura Healy’s signature or veto. HISTORY As originally worded, Ollie’s Law would have undermined Massachusetts purebred dog […]

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 […]

Much of the Clumber’s early history is lost in a tangled web of folklore and conflicting information. Here's what we know about this amiable breed.

Do you enjoy teaching your dog obedience skills? Then, the sport of AKC Rally might be for you! Here's how to train for the sport at home.

The following list highlights some of the AKC Government Relations’ (AKC GR) legislative successes through September 30, 2024.  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. […]

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.

AKC Group Standards Download AKC approved breed standards by complete group for use on any portable electronic device. Sporting Hound Working Terrier Toy Non-Sporting Herding Misc. Judges Study Guide No single written guide is ever comprehensive enough to be the only learning tool utilized in preparation for judging a new breed. We urge you to […]

German Wirehaired Pointers are loving and enthusiastic gundogs that make versatile hunting partners or eager companions for dog sports. Here are some German Wirehaired Pointer fun facts to help you get to know them better. GWPs Are Members of the Sporting Group Like their fellow breeds in the Sporting Group, they’re likable, energetic, and alert. […]

When you think of dog shows what most people picture is the sport of Conformation. Handlers make Confirmation look easy, but there's training involved.

Mission Statement: The American Kennel Club, the oldest and largest dog registry in the country, will provide assistance to the US Government and AKC breeders to improve the domestic supply of dogs for explosive detection training by raising the awareness of obstacles, exploring multiple solutions, educating key stake holders, and fostering collaboration for continuous improvement. […]

Why is there a shortage of domestic detection dogs? Following the events of 9-11, the demand for scent detection dogs for use in search and rescue, as well as explosives detection, began to grow and has steadily risen since. Recent events, including the bombings in Brussels, Boston, Las Vegas and New York City, have accelerated […]

[accordion] [accordion_panel title="2024"] AKC Detection Dog Task Force Hosts National Conference to Address Shortage of U.S. Bred and Raised Detection Dogs August 2024 Explosives detection dogs play a crucial role in U.S. safety and security at home and abroad, but unlike other vital national security tools, the United States is importing approximately 85-90% of its […]

We have some big news to report about All-Americans succeeding at earning the top titles and honors in Agility, Coursing Ability, Fast CAT, Rally, Obedience, Scent Work, Tracking, and Trick Dog! AGILITY Congratulations to these dogs on earning the Agility Grand Champion title: AGCH MACH3 PACH Resq's Dopamine Rush BN RN MXG PAD MJC PJD […]

Whether you're traveling the world or simply going to the vet, a dog carrier is a useful tool that prioritizes your pet's comfort and safety. A dog carrier (or travel crate) keeps your dog safe while riding in a vehicle and makes it possible for your small dog to fly on most commercial airlines. Yet, […]

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is an American original who embodies the classic traits of a retriever. Learn more about this breed's history.

The smallest of the retrievers, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is an intelligent obedience dog. Read more about the history of this peerless gundog.

American-made and a long-kept secret of South Carolina, Boykin Spaniel History goes back to the early 1900s. Today, the breed is seen across the South.

Do all dogs need a winter coat? If so, what are the best winter coats for dogs? We break down our favorites for dogs of all sizes and breeds.

While all dogs should have a basic soundness, their construction varies depending on breed and purpose. Understanding a dog's conformation requires looking at the canine from all angles. Even though there is nothing you can do to change your current dog's genetics, you can prevent injury and work on strengthening weak areas. Let's be honest: […]