With over 200 AKC-recognized breeds, modern dogs come in many shapes and sizes. From the tiny Chihuahua to the giant Irish Wolfhound, it’s hard to believe they’re the same species. It's even more shocking that all dogs are descended from gray wolves. The range of traits seen in today’s dogs is often attributed to Victorian […]

Ashley Carpenter is All-American Dog "Willow's" fourth owner. Not giving up on her changed both of their lives for the better.

The Great Pyrenees is one of the largest dogs that the AKC recognizes. They're best for experienced dog owners.

How do you phase food out of training? If your dog only listens when you've got treats, here's how to make sure they don't ignore your cues.

Roberta Hill and her Treeing Walker Coonhound "Toddie" came into each others' lives by accident. But their bond has been nothing short of exceptional since.

Updated: Tuesday, August 18, 2026   Since first detected on June 3, 2026, 46 cases of New World Screwworm (NWS, or screwworm) have been detected in southwest Texas and New Mexico.  While the number of screwworm cases have remained low, the American Kennel Club continues to recommend that all dog owners, or anyone who works […]

The American Kennel Club (AKC®), a not-for-profit organization, the world's largest registry of purebred and mixed-breed dogs, and a leading advocate for dogs, is excited to announce that submissions are now open for the AKC Canine Partners™ Photo Contest, inviting owners of mixed-breed dogs from across the country to celebrate the unique bond they share with […]

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, invites youth artists nationwide to participate in the 2026 AKC National Art Contest, hosted by AKC Public Education. This annual summer contest is open to children […]

Dogs enrolled in the AKC Canine Partners™ program can compete for titles and awards in events and programs like Agility, Obedience, Rally, Tracking, Coursing Ability Tests, Fast CAT, Scent Work, Farm Dog Certified, and the Versatile Companion Dog program (recognizes dogs that title in agility, obedience & tracking). There are also training programs that your […]

AKC Scent Work mimics the task of working detection dogs to locate a scent and communicate that the scent has been found. It’s a positive, challenging activity that gives your dog the opportunity to use his strongest natural sense. AKC Scent Work is open to all dogs, including mixed breeds enrolled in the  AKC Canine […]