The AKC Detection Dog Task Force (DDTF) is pleased to introduce a new video that shares AKC’s continued efforts in addressing the shortage of domestically bred, -raised and -trained explosives detection dogs in the United States. The video highlights interviews from terrorism experts, law enforcement officials, academia, and current AKC DDTF Patriotic Puppy Program (PPP) […]

Decrease U.S. dependence on foreign suppliers of dogs by supporting domestic efforts to provide suitable detection dog candidates. Help breeders and trainers raise confident puppies that can become successful candidates for dog training programs. We provide remote support to program participants, guiding dogs’ development from birth through approximately one year of age. We ask participants to gather valuable data on […]

March 2023 The AKC Detection Dog Task Force (DDTF) has exciting plans for 2023! We are initiating a move into Phase 3 of the Patriotic Puppy Program. Phase 3 will include further recruitment of AKC hobby breeders, puppy raisers and trainers while extending new invitations to small and medium-size training kennels and a new division […]

Homegrown terrorism and mass shootings have sadly become everyday news in the United States. As a result, the demand for explosives detection dogs as a deterrent against such crimes is on the increase with one major problem: there are not enough dogs to meet the growing need. The US Government purchases 80 to 90% its […]

June 2023 AKC Detection Dog Task Force (DDTF) events and activities are in full swing! The DDTF and Patriotic Puppy Program (PPP) are planning several exciting events. The first hands-on training seminar is scheduled for July at K2 Solutions, Inc. in Southern Pines, North Carolina. At this event, K2 Trainers and AKC Patriotic Puppy Program […]

Most large breeding programs that raise service puppies are philanthropies with pretty deep pockets. Government programs are similar in excess spending, but with very myopic vision for the future. With a steadily rising need for working detection dogs and current emphasis on a domestic supply of these dogs, and economy of time and resources are […]

Most large breeding programs that raise service puppies are philanthropies with pretty deep pockets. Government programs are similar in excess spending, but with very myopic vision for the future. With a steadily rising need for working detection dogs and current emphasis on a domestic supply of these dogs, and economy of time and resources are […]

About the Breeder of Merit Program The AKC Breeder of Merit program celebrates breeders who go above and beyond to prioritize the health, temperament, and well-being of their puppies. This program recognizes those dedicated to maintaining breed standards and ensuring their AKC-registerable puppies find loving homes.  As a Breeder of Merit, you’ll show your commitment […]

Virtual monthly webinar learning experiences created by breeders for breeders. Join renowned experts in these educational opportunities for breeders! 2026 Schedule Wednesday, September 30, 2026 6:00 – 7:30 pm (EST) “Prepaid Registration Made Easy with AKC Breeder Toolkit” Presented by the AKC BRET Team Discover a smarter way to register your puppies and see why […]

This story originally appeared in the summer 2012 issue of the AKC Canine Partners News and later was reprinted in a 2013 issue of AKC Family Dog magazine. The story won first place in the 2013 Dog Writers Association of America writing competition in the category of “Magazine Feature Article with the topic of Rescue.”Since […]