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Expert Advice: Breed History
Bedlington Terrier History: From Miners’ Dogs to Loyal Companions
No breed can upstage the Bedlington Terrier: From its sculpted, crispy-linty coat to its tassel-tipped ears, it looks for all the world like a lamb.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/bedlington-terrier-history/
| June 7, 2021
Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
Tibetan Spaniel History: Sacred Dog of Buddhist Monks
If you are reincarnated as a dog, make sure you come back as a Tibetan Spaniel. The region with the highest altitudes on our planet – hence its nickname, “the Roof of the World” – Tibet was forever changed when Buddhism arrived from northern India in the 7th and 8th centuries. Sprawling white monasteries began […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/tibetan-spaniel-history-sacred-dogs-buddhist-monks/
| December 18, 2020
Expert Advice: Fast CAT
How to Get More Involved in Fast CAT
Does your dog love to run? AKC Fast CAT (Coursing Ability Test) and is a popular and fast-paced dog sport for dogs of all sizes.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/sports/get-more-involved-fast-cat/
| September 6, 2024
Expert Advice: Common Conditions
Wheelchairs for Dogs: Everything You Need to Know
Wheelchairs help dogs walk, and are good for a variety of injuries and conditions. It's easy to find the right one, considering a few key factors.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/wheelchairs-for-dogs/
| September 1, 2021
Expert Advice: Breed History
Pekingese History: From Imperial Companions to Modern-Day Lapdogs
The "Little Lion Dog" has a rich history. Learn more about where the royal Pekingese — once owned exclusively by the Chinese imperial family — came from.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/pekingese-history/
| June 1, 2020
Expert Advice: Breed History
Chinese Crested History: From Sailors’ Sidekicks to Unique Companions
Although the exact origin of the breed isn't known, there is much we do know about Chinese Crested History. The hairless dogs have origin stories worldwide.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/chinese-crested-history/
| September 23, 2021
Expert Advice: Events
AKC National Championship Winners Through the Years
These champion show dogs took the top prize in conformation at the AKC National Championship presented by Royal Canin.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/akc-national-championship-winners-roundup/
| December 12, 2022
Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
The Shih Tzu’s Purpose: To Please People for a Thousand Years
With their delicate appearance and small size, Shih Tzu now fulfill their ancient role as canine comforters in ways their Imperial breeders never imagined.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/shih-tzus-purpose-please-people-thousand-years/
| October 2, 2020
Expert Advice: Conformation
How to Get More Involved in Conformation Dog Sports
If you've gotten started in dog shows and love it, you may be wondering how you can get more involved in conformation and purebred dogs.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/sports/get-more-involved-conformation/
| November 25, 2024
Expert Advice: Grooming
Dog Shedding: What To Expect and How To Manage It
Even if your dog isn't a big shedder, it is still important to brush and groom them regularly, but how often you groom depends on their coat.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-shedding-what-to-expect-and-how-to-manage-it/
| April 3, 2019
Expert Advice: Conformation
Meet the Winner of the 2024 AKC/Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy & Junior Stakes
Sunquest Hidden Treasure, a Pekingese known as "Digger" triumphed over 1,756 dogs ages six months to 18 months to become the AKC® Royal Canin National...
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/sports/winner-2024-puppy-junior-stakes/
| December 14, 2024
Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
Is the Shih Tzu a Good Fit for You?
If you're looking for the perfect at-home companion, consider the Shih Tzu. This loving, playful, and outgoing breed is known for being good with kids.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/shih-tzu-right-for-you/
| February 6, 2025
Expert Advice: Breed History
Shih Tzu History: From Royal Dogs to Beloved Companions
Although their precise origins are unknown, the Shih Tzu undoubtedly descended from lion-like Tibetan holy dogs and has existed for centuries.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/shih-tzu-history/
| March 23, 2022
Expert Advice: Events
By the Numbers: Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show Best in Show Winners
Thousands of dogs compete at the Westminster Kennel Club Best in Show. Check out some statistics on the breeds and groups who've taken the trophy.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/westminster-dog-show-statistics/
| February 6, 2020
Expert Advice: Events
Westminster Best in Show Winners Through the Years: 2008 to 2025
Through the years, many different breeds have won Best in Show at the Westminster Dog Show, including the 2024 winner, "Sage" the Miniature Poodle.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/westminster-winners-through-the-years/
| June 22, 2022
Expert Advice: News
The Most Popular Dog Breeds of 2024
Based on American Kennel Club registration statistics, we rank the most popular dog breeds in America each year. The French Bulldog takes the No. 1 spot!
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/most-popular-dog-breeds-2024/
| March 18, 2025
Expert Advice: Common Conditions
Can Dogs Get Hemorrhoids?
Although dogs don't get hemorrhoids, they can have problems with their anus and rectum, just like people can. Learn what signs to watch for.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/can-dogs-get-hemorrhoids/
| October 12, 2022
Expert Advice: Lifestyle
Shih Tzu Facts You May Not Know
Did you know these facts about the Shih Tzu dog breed? Learn more about this Asian breed that makes an excellent companion from the AKC Toy Group.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/fun-facts-shih-tzu/
| September 21, 2021
Expert Advice: Puppy Information
Answer These 5 Questions to Find the Right Dog For You
You’ve made the decision to welcome a new dog into your family. Now comes the fun part – finding the perfect dog. There’s a lot to consider. Before you commit, ask yourself these five questions. What’s Your Schedule? Think about your lifestyle. Do you work long hours? Struggle to get out the door in the […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/puppy-information/answer-5-questions-find-right-dog/
| November 2, 2017
Expert Advice: Dog Breeding
How to Prepare for a Breeder Interview
Adding a puppy to your family is a big decision that comes with lots of preparation. An interview with your prospective pup's breeder is a big part of that.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeding/how-to-prepare-for-a-breeder-interview/
| December 11, 2019
Dog Breeds
Pekingese
The Pekingese, a compact toy companion of regal bearing and a distinctive rolling gait, is one of several breeds created for the ruling classes of ancient China. These are sophisticated dogs of undying loyalty and many subtle delights.
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/pekingese/
| November 6, 2017
Legislative Alerts
Ojai, California Adopts Severe Dog Breeding Restrictions, Highlights Need for Local Government Vigilance by Fanciers and Breeders
On October 22, the Ojai City Council voted 4-1 to adopt a first-in-the-nation law that prohibits the breeding of dogs and cats with “congenital anatomical features” that are likely to cause the animal or its offspring to suffer pain, deformity, or difficult expressing natural behaviors, difficulty breathing, difficultly with physical exertion or exercise, or difficulty […]
https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/ojai-california-adopts-severe-dog-breeding-restrictions-highlights-need-local-government-vigilance-fanciers-breeders/
| October 28, 2024
Press Releases
2024 NATIONAL OWNER-HANDLED SERIES FINALS & NATIONAL ALL-BREED PUPPY & JUNIOR STAKES JUDGING PANELS NOW AVAILABLE
The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) is pleased to announce the judging panels for the 2024 National Owner-Handled Series (NOHS) Finals and the AKC Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy and Junior Stakes to be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida in conjunction with the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin. The […]
https://www.akc.org/press-releases/2024-national-owner-handled-series-finals-national-breed-puppy-junior-stakes-judging-panels-now-available/
| May 31, 2024
Press Releases
2024 AKC NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP JUDGING PANEL NOW AVAILABLE
The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) is pleased to announce the judging panel for the 2024 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, 2024. The 2024 event will showcase the top canine athletes and will also […]
https://www.akc.org/press-releases/2024-akc-national-championship-judging-panel-now-available/
| February 21, 2024
Press Releases
PEKINGESE “DIGGER” WINS AKC ROYAL CANIN NATIONAL ALL-BREED PUPPY AND JUNIOR STAKES
Sunquest Hidden Treasure, a Pekingese known as “Digger” triumphed over 1,756 dogs ages six months to 18 months to become the AKC® Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy of the Year, held today in Orlando, Fla in conjunction with the AKC® National Championship Presented by Royal Canin. “Digger,” owned and bred by Kay Canaan of Gaffney, […]
https://www.akc.org/press-releases/pekingese-digger-wins-akc-royal-canin-national-breed-puppy-junior-stakes/
| December 14, 2024
Press Releases
GIANT SCHNAUZER “MONTY” WINS BEST IN SHOW AT 24th AKC® NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP PRESENTED BY ROYAL CANIN
GCHG CH Hearthmore's Wintergreen Mountain RI CGC TKN FITB, a Giant Schnauzer known as “Monty” triumphed over more than 5,600 competitors to earn a $50,000 cash prize when they were awarded Best in Show at the AKC® National Championship Presented by Royal Canin, held December 14-15, 2024 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, […]
https://www.akc.org/press-releases/giant-schnauzer-monty-wins-best-show-24th-akc-national-championship-presented-royal-canin/
| December 30, 2024
Press Releases
2025 NATIONAL ALL-BREED PUPPY & JUNIOR STAKES JUDGING PANEL NOW AVAILABLE
The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) is pleased to announce the judging panel for the AKC Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy and Junior Stakes to be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida in conjunction with the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin. The AKC Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy and Junior […]
https://www.akc.org/press-releases/2025-national-breed-puppy-junior-stakes-judging-panel-now-available/
| April 3, 2025
Pages
Breeds by Year Recognized
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) […]
https://www.akc.org/press-center/articles-resources/facts-and-stats/breeds-year-recognized/
| August 12, 2019
Pages
Breed-Specific DNA Testing Recommendations
Test for what is recommended for your breed. Order AKC DNA + Health Kit The AKC DNA Program recommends that breeders perform DNA tests that are relevant to their breed. The AKC DNA + Health Kit includes over 328 markers for health and traits, and every dog receives results for all tests. However, not all […]
https://www.akc.org/breeder-programs/dna/dna-resource-center/akc-dna-health/breed-specific-dna-testing-recommendations/
| March 12, 2024
Clubs & Delegates
American Kennel Club Centennial Clubs
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 […]
https://www.akc.org/clubs-delegates/clubs/centennial-clubs/
| December 30, 2022