Originally bred to help hunters, retrievers were tasked with finding birds or other game and bringing them back undamaged. For this sort of job, the dog needed a “soft,” gentle mouth, where they would carefully carry the prey without damaging it. Also required were strength and agility to traverse a rugged landscape or work in […]

Brittanys are versatile of bird dogs and they're great for the right family. Learn more about the breed with these Brittany fun facts.

When it comes to choosing the right dog breed for you and your family, there are a lot of different things to consider. Temperament, exercise needs, size, and maintenance are all important aspects of your decision. Some people prefer a lower-maintenance breed, which often means that the dogs require little grooming. Of course, regular baths […]

AKC Breeder Spotlight: Julia Heidbrink of Buggytown Bird Dogs Each month the American Kennel Club profiles breeders to hear how they got started, their breeding program, and their experience with AKC Marketplace. We recently spoke with Julia Heidbrink of Buggytown Bird Dogs. Julia started breeding German Shorthaired Pointers about 10 years ago and today she […]

With a true terrier temperament, Welsh Terriers are friendly and feisty, and can have a knack for trouble. Learn more about this black and tan breed.

When you see a dog with their tail curled high over their back and triangular ears standing alertly, you might feel confident you're looking at a Japanese breed. But are you equally confident you know which one? The Akita and the Shiba Inu share a similar heritage and body shape. But the Akita, a member […]

There are many unique jobs for dogs to do, ranging from ancient traditions to modern tasks. Learn about unusual ways dogs have helped people in the past and still help others today.

Owning an endangered breed can be incredibly rewarding. It's no secret that what’s old is new again. As a millennial, I know that what used to be known as "used clothing" is now "vintage" and all the rage. Many of us have gone back to eating local and embracing a "farm-to-table" mentality when it comes […]

Field Trials in recorded history began in Britain in 1866. America's first recorded field trial was held in 1874 near Memphis, Tenn. It was an event that started a trend that grows ever stronger. The winner of that first U.S. Field Trial was a solid black native Setter by the name of Knight, who was […]

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 […]