Showing dogs is a fun sport where the thrill of competition is combined with the joy of seeing beautiful dogs. Dog shows, or conformation events, originated as a way for breeders to evaluate their breeding stock. While the purpose remains, dog shows are a great opportunity to socialize with people in your breed and develop […]

Thank you to Abby, and Darin for sharing their experiences. Have your own story? Submit it to juniors@akc.org. [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Abby Engler"] My name is Abbey Engler from New Palestine, IN and I am 11 years old. My adventure into dog sports began when I was 9 years old and I received an early Christmas gift; […]

First NAVHDA based club to host an AKC Hunt Test By Bonnie Hidalgo, Executive Field Representative A reciprocal agreement for dog registration between the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association (NAVHDA) and the American Kennel Club (AKC) was announced in July 2007. The reciprocal agreement makes it easier to register a dog with AKC if […]

The Spinone Italiano has always been near and dear to Italy, but only made a splash in the United States recently. If you haven't yet had a chance to get to know the breed, here are six interesting facts about the Spinone: 1. They Are Among the World's Oldest Hunting Dogs Until recently, the Spinone […]

Your dog unquestionably trusts you—unless you’re something of a Cruella de Vil of 101 Dalmatians infamy.  Your dog unquestionably trusts you—unless you’re something of a Cruella de Vil of 101 Dalmatians infamy. You’ve earned that trust. You’ve provided a safe home, taught him how to behave around other dogs and people, and most importantly, always fill […]

Originally published in the AKC Gazette Almost all the spaniels and setters were developed in the British Isles—but of the AKC pointing breeds, only the Pointer has its roots in England. The rest come from all over Europe. European breeds are less specialized than those of the British Isles. None of the retrievers—developed as the […]

They grab some Z's on recliners, hog the bed, and circle the kitchen counters hoping for a handout. There's no question the seven, eight, or even ten German Shorthaired Pointers who routinely hang inside Dave and and Lee Walker's home in Forsyth, Georgia, live the good life. These liver-and-white dogs, along with other GSPs the […]

[accordion] [accordion] [accordion_panel title="2026"] Below you will find recording links and resources for webinars that aired in 2026. Once you click the recording link, you will be asked to enter your name and email address in order to access the recording. Webinar Topic Recording Link Review & FAQ’s on Conformation Judging Procedures, Policies & Guidelines […]

In its endless pursuit to recognize outstanding members of the fancy, The American Kennel Club Lifetime Achievement Awards were created and first awarded in 1999 to honor our best. The purpose of the awards is to celebrate those individuals whose many years of dedication have led to significant contributions to our sport on a national […]

Meet Michael Kolath: Working Toward a Bright Dog Sports Future Name: Michael Kolath Age: 11 Hometown: Amarillo, TX Grade: 6th Family: Parents Bill & Sarah Kolath, brothers William and Andrew; sisters Elizabeth, Rebekah, and twin sister Annie Michael lives in the Texas Panhandle city of Amarillo with his dog-loving family. His parents and sisters enjoy dog […]