THE AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB PRIVACY NOTICE   Last Updated: 5/6/2022 Welcome! We are American Kennel Club, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing the study, breeding, exhibiting, running and maintenance of purebred dogs. This Privacy Notice explains how The American Kennel Club, Inc. (“AKC”, “we”, “us” or “our”) collects, uses, discloses, and otherwise processes personal information […]

At AKC Meet the Breeds events, you can meet, play with, and learn about hundreds of dog breeds. Find an event in your local area!

The American Kennel Club (AKC®), the world’s largest purebred dog registry and leading advocate for dogs, is excited to announce that the Lancashire Heeler has received full recognition and is the AKC’s 201st breed. The Lancashire Heeler is eligible to compete in the Herding Group. “We are excited to welcome the Lancashire Heeler to the […]

The American Kennel Club (AKC®), a not-for-profit organization, the world’s largest purebred dog registry and leading advocate for dogs, is pleased to announce the launch of its online pet pharmacy, AKCRx®. AKC is working with Allivet, an award-winning pet pharmacy, to bring you AKCRx – your new go-to source for all your pet med needs. […]

On Tuesday, January 9, after its 2022-2023 session was adjourned, New Jersey’s new 2024-2025 legislative session was convened. 2022-2023 RECAP Several bills of significant concern to the American Kennel Club (AKC) died upon adjournment of the ’22-’23 session.  They included Assembly Bill 1965 (courtroom advocates), Assembly Bill 4920 (residential kennels licensing), Senate Bill 1803 (prohibiting […]

In 2023, AKC Government Relations (GR) remained actively engaged with federations, club members, breeders, and dog owners nationwide, addressing legislative proposals impacting the dog community. Throughout the year, GR tracked over 2,400 bills and regulations at state and federal levels, emphasizing the importance of constituents' voices in shaping responsible dog ownership policies. The department’s legislative […]

  AKC, North America’s largest not-for-profit dog registry and leading advocate for dogs, has partnered with Allivet, an award-winning pet pharmacy, to bring you AKCRx – your new go-to source for all your pet med needs. As a responsible dog owner, you want to provide the best care for your dog, especially when it comes to […]

Over their lifetime, cancer affects one in three dogs. Understand this high risk and life threatening disease so you know the signs and treatments.

On Tuesday, February 13, a Kansas committee will consider House Bill 2542, which make numerous changes to the Kansas Pet Animal Act.  The most concerning provision of the legislation will allow the Commissioner of the Department of Agriculture to enter contracts with any licensed animal shelter or rescue to seize animals and provide care for […]

Committees in the Hawai’i State Legislature are scheduled to consider dog-related bills on Tuesday, February 13, 2024.  Hawai’i residents are encouraged to review the bills listed below and share concerns with the appropriate committee members. Senate Bill 2874 seeks to establish a non-refundable income tax credit for residential landlords who lease a unit to a […]

Owner-handler Kyllian Genzmer, of Fredericksburg, Virginia, got her Belgian Sheepdog to be her pet. "Legend" ended up being so much more.

Order AKC DNA + Health Kit Activate AKC DNA Kit DNA Resource Center All AKC DNA + Health Kits include: The AKC DNA Profile of 201 markers for genetic identity and parentage verification purposes 328 genetic variants for health and traits, including coat color Results are delivered by our trusted service provider (Neogen) with the […]

On Wednesday, March 20, 2024, the Connecticut General Assembly’s Joint Judiciary Committee will accept public testimony on a list of bills, including SB 427, which seeks to add protections for police K-9 and volunteer search and rescue dogs.  The bill would (1) increase the penalty for intentionally injuring a police K-9 or dog in a […]

The California legislative session is in full swing and AKC Government Relations (AKC GR) continues to track many bills of interest to dog owners. In addition, we will continue to watch for any amendments or other actions that could affect responsible dog ownership. The following are current statuses of bills that AKC GR is following, […]

Tennessee’s legislative session ended on April 25, 2024, and the American Kennel Club (AKC) is pleased to report multiple legislative successes that benefit dogs and dog owners. AKC thanks members of AKC-affiliated clubs, sportsmen, and every individual who contacted their state lawmakers about bills that affect our dogs. Special thanks go to the Nashville Kennel […]

The Junior Showmanship competition at Westminster celebrated its 90th year. Junior Handler Octavia Stensen took home 2024 Westminster Best Junior.

Understanding the genetic modes of inheritance is vital for dog breeders, as it helps them predict the likelihood of traits or genetic disorders appearing in offspring. This article provides simplified explanations of different modes of inheritance, which will be expanded on in coming articles.   Genetic Building Blocks: Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is the molecule that […]

Earlier this week, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published a new rule for the importation of dogs into the United States. The rule, which becomes effective on August 1, 2024, will require all dogs to be at minimum six months of age prior to import into the U.S. The American […]

In May, two major federal issues dominated the canine legislation landscape. The U.S. House Agriculture Committee unveiled its draft for the 2024 Farm Bill, officially titled the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024. This essential legislation reauthorizes U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs for five years and includes significant provisions affecting canine health […]

Hello, my name is Christopher Plank, I was born and raised in Waterloo, Illinois. Throughout my childhood, I have had the opportunity to grow up with White German Shepherds whom my grandmother bred and raised. As part of this passion, participation in these events and interacting with others has provided the opportunity to explore new […]