Owning a dog is a joy, privilege, and responsibility. If you are considering bringing a dog into your life, think seriously about the commitment that being a responsible dog owner entails. The AKC is committed to protecting the health and well-being of all dogs. AKC celebrates Responsible Dog Ownership Day on September 17th each year, […]

Here are seven ways to celebrate Responsible Dog Ownership Month this September.

In the 1700s, an ancient German breed, the Pinscher, contributed its genes to a new breed of small pinscher, which evolved into today’s Miniature Pinscher. Two centuries later, the Min Pin returned the favor and, with the assistance of a single brave and dedicated breeder named Werner Jung, saved the German Pinscher from extinction. The […]

For Dogtor Loki, comforting people comes naturally. Whenever she sees someone who needs emotional TLC, she goes into “parking mode.” “She’ll walk up and then kind of back herself, like a truck, and sit on your feet and give her back to you,” says Caroline Benzel, 32, a student at the University of Maryland School […]

There's so much to do and see at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show presented by Purina® Pro Plan® that even longtime attendees may not know the ins and outs of the event. There are the breed sessions, competitions in agility and obedience, and of course, the big events of group judging and best in show. […]

Paid Advertisement My black Curly-Coated Retriever, "Wave," loved his food – until one day, he didn’t. He was healthy and active, and nothing had changed in his life. He just seemed to be bored with the food he previously devoured. In contrast, my current dog, a brown Lagotto Romagnolo, does a Snoopy dance of joy […]

After seeing a cartoon of a Bulldog in the funny pages, a kindergarten-age Cody Sickle saved up to buy one of those jut-jawed creatures. He did just that only two years later – at the tender age of 8. Today, after more than a half-century, Sickle and his Cherokee Bulldogs in Oyster Bay Cove, New […]

We have some big news to report about All-Americans succeeding at earning the top titles and honors in Agility, Coursing Ability, Fast CAT Rally, Obedience, Scent Work, Tracking, and Trick Dog. Many dogs are also having success in AKC’s Virtual Titling programs! AGILITY Agility Grand Champion (AGCH) Congratulations to these dogs who have earned the […]

Use the following resources as a guide to responsible dog breeding. You may also want to watch the AKC webinar on Planning Breedings: Are you ready to breed a litter of puppies? Prepare Yourself for Breeding a Litter of Puppies Breed to Improve Understand the Commitment Choose A Suitable Mate Know Your Genetics Finalize Stud […]

The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) is thrilled to announce the return of the AKC’s Responsible Dog Ownership Day. This summer and fall hundreds of clubs and dog organizations around the country will host free events to educate dog lovers and owners alike about the responsibilities that come with dog ownership after a brief two-year hiatus […]