To most people, training a dog begins and ends with commands and equipment. They never think that developing a relationship with their dog through training is possible, let alone critical. But by forming a relationship with your dog through an activity like training — rather than only from cuddling on the couch or slipping him […]

The breed standard for the Maltese sums it up: “The Maltese is a toy dog covered from head to foot with a mantle of long, silky, white hair.” But words can't really convey the flashy visual drama and glamour of a Maltese in full show coat. When a stunningly groomed Maltese champion enters the show […]

"Boom" the Golden Retriever is the oldest dog competing at the 2023 AKC Obedience Classic, and this fun-loving girl is nowhere near ready to retire.

The first animal care professional that many dog owners know and trust is the veterinarian. As a growing number of veterinarians are recognizing the benefits of early training for dogs, there is an increase in CGC and AKC STAR Puppy classes in veterinary settings. Dr. Judy Little of the Osceola Veterinary Clinic (Iowa) has arranged […]

Why do dogs suck on blankets? Here's why your dog may enjoy sucking or kneading a blanket or soft toy.

Too much of a good thing — in this case, vitamin D — has sickened some dogs and prompted of recalls of dry dog foods, according to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Nutrisca and Natural Life Pet Products, both based in Saint Louis, issued voluntary recalls of their products when pet owners complained […]

Taylor Schwartz, of Lakeville, Minnesota, partners with Belfox and Misty Hollow Smooth Fox Terriers to both breed and show. She got her start in the breed when she was asked to show a puppy. That puppy eventually came home with her, and “the rest is history,” Taylor said. “I have been fortunate to partner with Terri […]

Have you ever wondered why your dog's face is so irresistible? A new study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) says that dogs' facial features – in particular, "puppy dog eyes" – may have evolved based on human preference. When breeding began with wolves to create domestic dogs, humans bred with the purpose […]

We have some big news to report about All-Americans succeeding at earning the top titles and honors in Agility, Coursing Ability, Fast CAT Rally, Obedience, Scent Work, Tracking, and Trick Dog. Many dogs are also having success in AKC’s Virtual Titling programs! AGILITY Agility Grand Champion (AGCH) Congratulations to these dogs who have earned the […]

May kicked off with the celebration of National Purebred Dog Day (NPDD) on May 1. NPDD honors the pride, predictability and purpose of purebred dogs and the preservation of these breeds. NPDD was the brainchild of Colorado resident and Puli fancier Suzi Szeremy to celebrate the amazing diversity and heritage of the breeds we love. The American Kennel Club Government […]