AKC PupPals Program

The AKC PupPals Program provides people in need of uplifting with a message from a canine friend. Anyone is eligible to receive a video, including people who are struggling with an illness, the illness/death of a loved one (human or pet), who are missing a deployed loved one, or who are otherwise struggling through a difficult time.

AKC Education is seeking videos of your dog to send to people in need of a PupPal. You can learn more about enrolling a person or dog below.

Anyone can be nominated for an AKC PupPal, including yourself! 

If your are nominating a minor, we ask that only the parent/legal guardian nominate a child for a PupPal. If you know of a child who would benefit from this program, please share this link with the parent/legal guardian.

You may nominate a person or yourself using this form.

Would you like your dog to be an AKC PupPal? Dogs of any age or breed (including All-American Dogs) are welcome to join.

You can enroll your dog by filling out this form and sending us a video. Learn more about how to send the video here. 

Things to consider when making your video:

1. 1. It should be no longer than 1 minute.
   2. It should be filmed horizontally (landscape), not vertically (portrait).
2. 
   1. It should feature your dog and be from your dog’s point of view! It is best if people are not in the video.
   2. Children should not be included in the video.
   3. Include in the video information about your dog, including their name, breed (if applicable), what they enjoy, etc.
   4. Show them doing a special trick or otherwise being their awesome self!
   5. Include an uplifting message to the recipient. Because you won’t know anything about the recipient, keep the message general.

For Those Receiving a PupPal

Are there any rules about who can receive a PupPal?

Anyone can participate in the AKC PupPal Program. This program is designed to uplift people who are struggling through a difficult time, whether that be an illness, the illness/death of a loved one (human or dog), the deployment of a loved one, etc. Anyone that would enjoy a PupPal is welcome to join.

Can I sign my student up for a PupPal?

Along with a child’s parent, a teacher is often the first to know that a child is having a hard time. We encourage any teacher/coach etc. who believes a child would benefit from this program to share it with a child’s parent/guardian. Only the parent/legal guardian of a child can nominate their child for this program.

When will the recipient receive their PupPal?

PupPals will be received in approximately 8-10 business days.

Will a dog owner receive information or communicate with the recipient?

No. Dog owners submit their dog’s video and information to AKC Education. The recipient’s information will not be communicated to the dog owner and will be kept strictly confidential. It will not be shared with anyone outside of our staff.

For Dog Owners

What kind of dogs can apply to be a PupPal?

Any dog of any breed (including All-American Dogs) is welcome to apply!

Will my dog or I receive anything for joining the AKC PupPal Program?

Yes! Each participating dog will receive an e-certificate thanking them for their participation.

Can I find out anything about the person that receives my dog’s PupPal video?

Unfortunately, no. However, you can rest assured that the person that receives your PupPal video will be very happy!

I am not able to receive videos. Can I still participate?

Yes, please email us at publiced@akc.org.