The doorbell rings, which in many houses prompts the dog to start barking. Then, the barking prompts the owners to start yelling, and instead of stopping — the dog just barks more! Sound familiar? If this scene resembles your house, you aren't alone. This is a common situation where many owners get stuck and frustrated […]

Originally hunting dogs, German Shorthaired Pointers have been an AKC-recognized breed since 1930. In the succeeding decades, the GSP has become known for its energy, athleticism, and noble countenance, as well as its distinctive coat. Just as you would with any pet, research a German Shorthaired Pointer’s needs and characteristics before bringing home a pup. […]

Here are strategies to help your dog get more comfortable greeting strangers, especially new neighbors or children, in an appropriate manner.

There are plenty of things you can try at home to prepare your dog for agility obstacles and gauge your interest and their enthusiasm for the activity.

Breed meetups are social gatherings of owners and their dogs that are the same breed. These events can provide opportunities to meet puppy playmates and provide a fantastic training opportunity for your companion. At meetups, dog owners can also bond, connect, and share resources about groomers, vets, and other professionals who specialize in your breed. […]

Peter Holson of McHill’s Border Terriers lives in Santa Fe, New Mexico. He has been involved with Border Terriers for more than 20 years and has bred them for about that long. McHill’s is a brother/sister breeding program. Typically, Peter’s sister, Hillary Zimmerman, whelps and raises pups while Peter is more involved with showing class […]

It is truly the dog days of summer, which for Government Relations means taking a moment to consider all the work that has been done in conjunction with breeders, federations, and clubs across the country on behalf of our wonderful dogs and our sport. Currently, the majority of state legislatures are adjourned for the year […]

News from the State Capitols Here are some highlights of state-level issues AKC GR is currently tracking. California – AB 1881 as introduced established a “Dog and Cat Bill of Rights”.  While the bill only required that the list be posted at shelters and rescues, AKC joined many organizations in expressing significant concerns about putting […]

Here are some highlights of state and federal regulatory issues AKC GR recently addressed.  Visit AKC’s Regulatory Resource Center for more information on these and other significant regulatory issues addressed by AKC Government Relations. Federal - On June 1, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced an extension and modification of the July […]

AKC Government Relations continues to monitor Congress for issues of interest to dog owners. Visit our 2022 Legislation Tracking map and click on “Federal Bills” on the map to get the latest updates on federal bills currently being monitored by the AKC. Highlights of issues we are currently addressing on the federal level include:  U.S. Congress – […]