The Berger Picard and Miniature American Shepherd join the Herding Group, and the Lagotto Romagnolo joins the Sporting Group. All three are athletic and energetic (read: need lots of exercise), full of affection for their families, and are flat-out beautiful. Check out the Berger Picard in action: The Berger Picard’s elegant name means “shepherd” and the […]

With his fluffy white coat, the American Eskimo Dog does look like he came straight out of an igloo. But he actually has a very different origin. Here are seven interesting facts about the American Eskimo Dog: 1. They Originated in Germany The American Eskimo Dog, or Eskie, is actually not from America. They originated […]

George Washington was first President of the United States and the father of our country, but he also had another distinction—America’s first crazy dog man.When Washington wasn’t out leading revolutions and presiding over the birth a nation, the Virginia plantation owner was obsessed with his pack. Fox hunting was one of his greatest pleasures, and […]

ASK AKC  Dear AKC: Our family is searching for the right breed of dog for our family. We have two sons at home, 12 and 13 years old, and are looking for a small family pet of 35 lb. or less in weight fully grown. Any advice you can give would be appreciated. -- Looking […]

Meet Gayle Watkins, breeder of over 100 titled Golden Retrievers that have excelled in multiple sports and co-founder of Avidog International.  A Gold-level AKC Breeder of Merit, Gayle Watkins of Highlands, North Carolina, puts the “purpose” in multi-purpose dogs: Her Gaylan’s Golden Retrievers have earned more than 140 American and Canadian conformation, obedience, tracking, Rally and agility championships, as well as Master Hunter titles. Dozens […]

  The AKC Detection Dog Task Force has launched its Pilot Detection Puppy Rearing Program – an opportunity for breeders and owners to work closely with experts on raising dogs that will have the potential to be trained for explosives detection work. The United States has a serious shortage of qualified dogs to perform the […]

Discover the rich history of the Shiba Inu—from ancient Japanese hunting dog to internet icon and crypto mascot.

The 2020 AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin on Dec. 12 and 13 hosted 3,680 dogs who all competed for the coveted title of Best in Show. The competition began with each dog competing for best in their breed. Best in Group Best of Breed winners then advanced to compete in the group competitions. Each […]

The American Kennel Club Government Relations (AKC GR) department has noticed a recent uptick in anti-dog policies on the local level. One of the most prevalent issues being considered in communities throughout the United States is the regulation of tethering. Supporters of such proposals often recycle appalling photos of neglected dogs that would horrify any […]

Not every dog is cut out for the demanding role of a therapy dog. Rachel Shaw shared this story about her rescue Catahoula Leopard Dog and her discovery along the training road that Odette preferred not to do therapy work - except for one special moment that she will never forget. This story originally appeared in […]