Wondering how popular your pooch really is? Now you can find out. The most popular dog breeds of 2019 were released on May 1, 2020 (also National Purebred Dog Day) based on 2019 AKC registration statistics. It may come as no surprise that the Labrador Retriever takes the top spot for the 29th year in a row, […]

Generally speaking, smaller dog breeds can make good companion dogs for apartments or condominiums. They adapt well in confined spaces, and they don't need a tremendous amount of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. But there are many dog breeds that make good choices for apartments, some of which you may not expect! Bulldog […]

Heart failure, often brought on by valvular disease, is one of the most common causes of death amongst small breeds like the Chihuahua, Maltese, and others as they approach their twilight years. Here's what you need to know about this disease and what you can do if you receive a diagnosis for your dog. What […]

The 2019 AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin on Dec. 14 and 15 had a record number of dogs in its 19th year. The competition began with 5,284 dogs each competing for best in their breed. Best in Group Best of Breed winners then advanced to compete in the group competitions. Each AKC-recognized breed falls […]

Cancer is a common canine concern, affecting an estimated 25% of all dogs. Learn more about common questions surrounding chemotherapy treatment for canines.

Breed 2018 Rank 2017 Rank 2016 Rank 2015 Rank 2014 Rank Labrador Retrievers 1 1 1 1 1 German Shepherd Dogs 2 2 2 2 2 Golden Retrievers 3 3 3 3 3 French Bulldogs 4 4 6 6 9 Bulldogs 5 5 4 4 4 Beagles 6 6 5 5 5 Poodles 7 7 […]

AKC registration continues to expand for the sixth year in a row. The most popular dog breeds of 2018 were released on March 20, 2019, according to AKC registration statistics. Registration is not only beneficial for your dog, but for dogs everywhere. The American Kennel Club and its affiliates have donated over $38 million to canine […]

Toy dogs are more than just small. Learn more about each of the Toy Group breeds and find out what exactly these adorable dogs were bred to do.

Dog owners are nothing if not fickle in their tastes. Breed popularity is cyclical through the years and, too often, based on a dog’s random star turn in a movie, TV commercial, or YouTube video (with little research done on the breed’s exercise and grooming needs.) What Happened to Afghan Hounds? Most people are surprised […]

Watch the 2018 AKC National Tracking Invitational highlights on December 8 & 9 on AKC.TV, with showings at noon, 3, 6, and 9 p.m. ET. Chances are, the only time you notice your dog’s nose is when she uses it to deliver a poke — a cold, clammy reminder that a walk is needed or […]

The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) is pleased to announce the judging panel for the 2020 AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin to be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida on Saturday, December 12 and Sunday, December 13, 2020. The 2020 event will showcase the top canine athletes and will also […]

The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) is pleased to announce the judging panel for the 2019 AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin to be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida on Saturday, December 14 and Sunday, December 15, 2019. The 2019 event will showcase the top national and international canine athletes […]

Hoping to meet a specific dog breed when you visit AKC Meet the Breeds during AKC National Championship in Orlando? Or maybe you just want to meet them all! Don't miss a single wag or woof with this list of breeds that will be in attendance at the 2019 show. Get your tickets now. Dog Breeds […]

Hoping to meet a specific dog breed (or cat breed), or do you just want to meet all 150+ breeds? Find your favorites on our list of breeds so you won't miss a single wag, whisker, or woof! They'll all be there to meet you at the January 25-26, 2020 AKC Meet the Breeds event. […]

Showing dogs is a fun sport where the thrill of competition is combined with the joy of seeing beautiful dogs. Dog shows, or conformation events, originated as a way for breeders to evaluate their breeding stock. While the purpose remains, dog shows are a great opportunity to socialize with people in your breed and develop […]

The AKC currently registers 201 dog breeds. The chart below lists all AKC recognized breeds and the year they first became registrable with the AKC.  (last updated 11/20/24) DATE – BREED 1878 – Pointer  1878 – Retriever (Chesapeake Bay)  1878 – Spaniel (Clumber)  1878 – Spaniel (Cocker)  1878 – Setter (English)  1878 – Setter (Gordon)  […]

  Breed Rank Retrievers (Labrador) 1 German Shepherd Dogs 2 Retrievers (Golden) 3 French Bulldogs 4 Bulldogs 5 Beagles 6 Poodles 7 Rottweilers 8 Pointers (German Shorthaired) 9 Yorkshire Terriers 10 Boxers 11 Dachshunds 12 Pembroke Welsh Corgis 13 Siberian Huskies 14 Australian Shepherds 15 Great Danes 16 Doberman Pinschers 17 Cavalier King Charles Spaniels […]

Competition/Titles Update We have some big news to report about All-Americans succeeding at earning the top titles in Agility, Coursing Ability, Rally, Obedience and Tracking, including the second and third dogs to earn the new AKC Agility Grand Championship! AGILITY Agility Grand Champion (AGCH) – Two more All-Americans have earned this prestigious new title! AGCH […]

The following breeders have met the requirements for the Breed and Levels recorded at the time of the application. The American Kennel Club is pleased to recognize these breeders for their contribution to the sport and maintaining the tenets of the Breeder of Merit program. (current as of  8/22/25, last updated 8/25/25) [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Platinum"] […]

Ed K.  I have called twice, and both times was given great ideas to get my picky eater to eat. I also followed their game ideas, given to use up my puppy's energy in a positive way. Both times the helpline trainers were friendly and patient with me and also very encouraging. Sherrie C. I […]