by Lori Herbel Judging a herding trial is a tremendous responsibility. Consistency and fairness are the top priorities of the day, and the ability to comfortably make sensible split second decisions under pressure is a necessity. In order to help carry out this responsibility, a judge needs a trustworthy assistant by his side that he […]

Bassett Hound Field Trials are exciting and a lot fun for the hound and huntsman. These events date back to the 1930's. Basset field trials are designed and conducted for the purpose of selecting those hounds that display sound quality and ability to the best advantage. Shortly after the formation of the Basset Hound Club […]

The phrase "written standard" is a familiar one to those who are affiliated with the breed ring. In conformation, it is well known that a judge must be extremely knowledgeable about each breed standard before becoming approved to judge that breed. It is the judge's duty to compare each entry with the written breed standard, […]

Survey Update A survey was recently conducted amongst dog owners who are active in the sport. Here were the findings: 2023 Survey Results Event Materials All the forms and resources your club needs to host an AKC Pointing Breed Hunt Test: After the Event Results must be submitted to AKC Performance Events within 7 days […]

Dear Rally Enthusiasts, We are pleased to announce the launch of a new Rally Ranking System. This system is designed to recognize the accomplishments of our Rally teams by highlighting participants in the Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, Excellent, Master, and Choice classes, as well as dogs who have earned the RACH title. There are two types […]

Learning Objectives Students will learn about how the system for returning lost dogs to their owners has been enhanced through technology.  This lesson will dive into the invention of the microchip for dogs and how it has changed society and the lives of dogs.   Grade Levels 3-5   National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies […]

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Learning Objectives Students will close read and analyze “A Dog’s Tale” by Mark Twain. *Note: This is a multi-day lesson.   Grade Levels 9-12   Common Core English Language Arts Standards CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.11-12.2 Determine two or more themes or central ideas of a text and analyze their development over the course of the text, including how […]

The AKC works with non-AKC service and sports organizations to recognize the titles that AKC-registered dogs earn in their programs. This includes the AKC Therapy Dog program and the AKC Search & Rescue program. AKC also recognizes titles of the Barn Hunt Association (BHA); North American Diving Dogs (NADD); the North American Flyball Association (NAFA); […]

A boisterous and charismatic droving dog from Scotland, the shaggy-coated Bearded Collie (“Beardie” to his friends) enjoys outdoor exercise in all weather. Bred to be independent decision-makers, they can be willful but are always friendly.