Editor's Note: The American Kennel Club has had a long history of inclusion across our sport for exhibitors and spectators from all walks of life. This month, we are sharing stories and voices of LGBTQ community members. Here is Sassafras Lowrey's: When the AKC went public on social media with a rainbow version of the logo […]

LGBTQIA+ dog owners have always been part of AKC dog sports. For some, the dog world has been a supportive haven, while for others, it has been more challenging.

The dog community is a big place, but so is the LGBTQ+ community! Make an effort to be kind to others, and stand up for others when you can.

Celebrating the diversity of our dog sports community is part of helping our sports to thrive, including the AKC LGBTQ community.

Diversity amongst dogs and people makes our dog sports community stronger. Meet some of the LGBTQ+ dog spot handlers and what they do.

What makes a dog smart? Discover how canine intelligence is defined and which dog breeds consistently rank highest.

Having trouble deciding on what to name your new dog? Check out our list of the 150 most popular puppy names that are unique but never go out of style!

Get more information about prevention, symptoms, testing you can have done, and treatment if your dog is infected.

The right dog collar isn't just a fashion choice; it should be safe, secure, and comfortable. So what goes into choosing the right dog collar?

Dealing with eye boogers might not be the most pleasant part of pet ownership. However, learning when and how to clean your dog's eyes, especially if they're a breed prone to tear staining or discharge, can help keep them comfortable and prevent problems like eye infections from developing. In This Article When Eye Cleaning Is Needed How […]

Socializing puppies has traditionally been considered the responsibility of the new owner. Breeders instruct them to take the puppy to classes and make sure they are exposed to a variety of people and situations. In This Article The First Three Weeks of a Puppy’s Life What Is Early Neurological Stimulation? How Early Neurological Stimulation Works […]

Learn the causes, signs, and treatment options for laryngeal paralysis in dogs, and how to help maximize your dog's quality of life.

Enjoying some refreshing coconut water or coconut slices, and wondering if you can share it with your dog? Dogs often enjoy eating fruits and vegetables, and many fresh produce items make a great, healthy treat option. In This Article Can Dogs Safely Eat Coconut? Health Benefits of Coconut for Dogs How to Feed Coconut to […]

Dogs can eat cooked, unseasoned potatoes in moderation. Sweet potatoes are the most nutritious; potatoes with green spots should be avoided.

Trimming your dog's nails is an essential part of a healthy grooming routine, but the job can be daunting. Learn more about dog nail trimming techniques.

As pet owners, knowing how to clean a dog's ears is important. Here's how to know if your dog's ears are dirty and how to safely clean them.

We often think of concussions as happening to people while they're working or playing competitive sports. But pets are also at risk of brain injury. Concussion in dogs is "a very serious medical problem that can become life-threatening," says Dr. Dottie Hagler, DVM, DACVIM, board-certified veterinary neurologist and medical director at Pet Specialists of Austin. […]

If you have a large or giant breed dog, they can get involved in Trick Dog! Here's how to get started with your big pup and teach them tricks.

Why do dogs sniff your crotch? Learn how sniffing crotches is a dog's way of learning about people, as well as how to redirect these this behavior.

It stinks when your dog gets sprayed by a skunk, but hold off on reaching for a can of tomato juice. There is a better solution that targets the odor on a microscopic level, and you can find many of its ingredients in your home. In This Article What Not To Do After a Skunk […]

Trazodone is a medication used to treat depression in people, but your veterinarian may suggest Trazodone for dogs to help with behavioral issues.

PEMF therapy for dogs can be done at the vet or at home. It's a good choice for dogs who have osteoarthritis or an acute injury. Learn more.

If your dog's tail is limp, it could be a sign of a sprained tail, known as swimmer's tail or limber tail. What should you do if you suspect swimmer's tail?

Acupuncture for dogs is a popular complementary therapy. Learn more about the potential benefits of this low-risk treatment along with its limitations.

At this year's Rose Parade in Pasadena, Calif., a float featuring surfing dogs set the world record for longest and heaviest float in Tournament of Roses Parade history. The float, The Lucy Pet's Gnarly Crankin' K-9 Wave Maker, was 125 feet long and weighted 148,250 pounds, reports the laist. A contributing factor to the massiveness […]

Many AKC-recognized dog breeds were originally bred as hunting dogs. Many of these dogs are retrievers, pointers, or spaniels. These dogs have the skills, instinct, and energy to be our companions in the field, and they have been doing so for hundreds of years. Now, when hunting opportunities are limited, many of these breeds compete in […]

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 […]

(updated 6/1/26 ) 5/11/2026 From the May Board Meeting - one new breed was added to the Foundation Stock Service Program – Lucas Terrier. 4/13/2026 From the April Board Meeting - three new breeds was added to the Foundation Stock Service Program – Silken Windhound, Saarloos Wolfhond, Old Danish Pointer. 1/12/26 The Peruvian Inca Orchid […]

The American Kennel Club (AKC®), a not-for-profit organization that is the world’s largest registry of purebred and mixed-breed dogs, and a leading voice for canine welfare and responsible ownership, is pleased to announce that applications for the AKC Eddy Award are now open through September 1, 2026. The AKC Eddy Award is designed to encourage […]

Thanks to the strong response from AKC advocates and sportsmen’s groups—and the strong leadership of House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson—the House Farm bill, H.R. 7567, the “Farm, Food, and National Security Act,” passed by the U.S. House contained positive provisions that support responsible breeding and dog ownership and no provisions that will cause harm. […]