Each of the AKC registered breeds are assigned to one of seven groups representing characteristics and functions the breeds were originally bred for. Current as of June 17, 2025 [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Herding Group"] HERDING GROUP The Herding Group, created in 1983, is the newest AKC classification; its members were formerly members of the Working Group. […]

  Welcome to the AKC . We have put together definitions for dog words that you may not be familiar with. If you have additional questions regarding the glossary, please contact our Special Services Department. A Abdomen The belly or under surface between the chest and the hindquarters. Acetabulum The concave lateral portion of the […]

Meet Lauren Luckey: Bitten by the Dog Training Bug Name: Lauren Luckey Age: 17 Hometown: Georgetown, TX Grade: 12th Family: Parents, Mike and Gretchen Luckey; younger sister, Danielle Photo by Gretchen Jernigan Lauren’s family already owned a few dogs and other pets, but when Jax came along, his high energy and sniffy ways made it clear […]

The Belgian Laekenois will soon be the AKC's newest recognized breed. For an in-depth introduction to the breed, come back on July 1. Her name was Diva but nothing could have been further off the mark appearance-wise in June 2018 when a bedraggled Belgian Laekenois first set foot permanently in Sharrii Hunt’s life. Chevalric’s Darling […]

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen came into prominence in the United States nearly 20 years ago. Although there had been a few PBGVs in the country as early as 1971, it was a puppy named Alexander that started the PBGV frenzy in 1983. Since then, the reaction to this scruffy little hound has gone from […]

Fall brings its own rhythm and sounds. After the long days of summer, it is almost a relief to enjoy the gap between summer and winter. The soft rustle of leaves gliding on chilly winds, the muted sounds of birds still hanging around before undertaking their migrations, and the tinkling sounds of bells all tell […]

by Lynn Leach When can I start teaching my pup to herd? Can I enter this clinic - my pup is five months old? I know she isn't ready, but is there something I can start working on? These are all very good questions I hear repeatedly. I also hear many incredibly varied answers. Herding […]

The AKC/Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy & Junior Stakes is held in conjunction with the AKC National Championship presented by Royal Canin   Orange County Convention Center Orlando, FL Friday, December 11, 2026   The AKC/Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy & Junior Stakes is a competition created especially for purebred dogs aged 6-18 months (Puppies 6-12 months/ […]

The AKC/Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy & Junior Stakes is held in conjunction with the AKC National Championship presented by Royal Canin   Orange County Convention Center Orlando, FL Friday, December 17, 2021   The AKC/Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy & Junior Stakes is a competition created especially for purebred dogs aged 6-18 months (Puppies 6-12 months/ […]

With Retrievers being one of the most popular breeds in America, it’s a safe bet that thousands upon thousands of hours are spent playing fetch each year. While you might think it’s just a form of play (and a fun party trick!), it’s actually much more: It’s a Retriever embracing his natural ability to respond […]