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Expert Advice: Government Relations
Why Breed Bans Affect You
Does your dog have almond shaped eyes? A heavy and muscular neck? A tail medium in length that tapers to a point? A smooth and short coat? A broad chest? If you said yes to these questions, then congratulations, you own a “pit bull” …At least according to the City and County of San Francisco’s […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/breed-bans-affect/
| February 1, 2018
Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
The Price of Popularity: What Happens When a Breed Becomes a Trend?
What tugs at our hearts more than an adorable Chihuahua peeking out of Reese Witherspoon’s purse in the movie Legally Blonde? Perhaps it is the sight of puppies glee fully romping through scenes in 101 Dalmatians, or the exploits of Otis, the endearing Pug, in The Adventures of Milo and Otis. Dogs occupy a treasured […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/price-of-popularity-breed-trends/
| March 24, 2022
Expert Advice: Feature
What It’s Really Like to Have a Service Dog
September is National Service Dog Month. This month is dedicated to raising awareness and showing appreciation for the work of service dogs. Sassafras Lowrey is an award-winning author and Certified Trick Dog Instructor. This is Sassafras' first-hand account of having a service dog. When I was 18 years old, I was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/what-its-really-like-to-have-a-service-dog-national-service-dog-month/
| September 18, 2019
Expert Advice: News
One-By-One Military Dogs Abandoned in Kennel Are Reunited with Handlers
After three long years, U.S. Army Specialist Vance McFarland finally has his war dog back. McFarland hadn't seen Ikar, the tactical explosive detection dog (TEDD) he deployed to Afghanistan with, since 2012. Until last week, when the pair was reunited. While deployed, Ikar and McFarland searched for roadside bombs and IEDs. “We had a dangerous […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/military-dogs-reunited-with-handlers/
| August 24, 2015
Expert Advice: Training
The Importance of Positivity in Dog Training
One of the earliest lessons I learned about dog training was this: Never, ever, ever train your dog when you’re in a bad mood. Initially, I thought, That’s odd. Training always puts me back in a good mood. But I ultimately realized that in order to have a joyful and successful training session, the good […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/importance-positivity-dog-training/
| August 17, 2022
Expert Advice: Puppy Health
Why Do Puppies Shed Their Coats?
Losing that soft puppy coat is a normal part of your dog’s growth, but it can be alarming for owners. Learn what to expect about puppy coat shedding.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/why-puppies-shed/
| January 1, 2022
Expert Advice: Senior Dog Health
Osteoarthritis in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, Treatments
Osteoarthritis is a common problem in dogs, particularly in seniors and large breeds. Here are the best ways to manage your dog's osteoarthritis.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/osteoarthritis-in-dogs/
| May 3, 2022
Expert Advice: Feature
The Heartbeat At Her Feet: How A Stray Papillon Made One Home Complete
Christina Merten is a wildlife rehabilitation technician at the Wildlife Center of the North Coast in Astoria, Oregon. Here, she recounts the story of her "once-in-a-lifetime dog", Jay the Papillon. A chance encounter with an old, sick, smelly dog turned out to be an unexpected gift. I was on my way to work as a […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/from-stray-papillon-to-heartbeat-at-her-feet/
| January 29, 2020
Expert Advice: Health
The People Who Pay Other Families’ Vet Bills — And How You Can Do the Same
Every year, countless dogs die or go untreated because their owners can't afford the medical care they need. But many others receive charitable funding for pet healthcare and go on to live long, happy lives. Who are the generous people who donate to these funds, and help keep other families' pets healthy? The American Kennel […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/people-pay-families-vet-bills-can/
| May 30, 2019
Expert Advice: Health
Should You Get Your Dog’s Eyes Checked? What to Know About Eye Health
Vision plays a crucial role in your dog's quality of life. How often should you get your dog's eyes checked to prevent problems?
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/get-dog-eyes-checked/
| January 21, 2026