You might have a dog you've dreamed of showing in a conformation event, but how do you know when they're ready to compete for the first time? In This Article Try a Beginner Conformation Course Consider Handling Classes Training in Public Spaces Enter a 4-6 Month Beginner Puppy Competition Practice Through Match Shows Assessing Your […]

Alan Kalter and Dr. Chris Lezotte were presented with the 2016 AKC Breeder of the Year award for their HappyLegs Bullmastiffs at the AKC National Championship presented by Royal Canin on Saturday, December 17, 2016. The annual award honors those breeders who have made an impact on their breed and dedicated their lives to improving […]

Dog events can only happen because of dedicated volunteers and clubs are always in need of more volunteers to help with their shows, seminars, and other...

We often hear dog shows accused of being nothing but “beauty contests.” In reality, they’re organized more like job fairs. At AKC shows, dogs are exhibited in seven groups organized by the original work the breeds were created to do. The dog judged best in each group becomes one of the final seven to vie […]

When did Fast CAT start? Was it when it when the dog's wolf ancestors chased down their first rabbit? When the Pharaohs unleashed swift hounds in...

Spice, a 7-year-old Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen, competes in her third AKC National Agility Championship in 2023 and demonstrates true versatility.

The mahogany huntress leapt from one bale to the next in pursuit of her prey. Straw and dust swirled in the air as Beatrice, a Rhodesian Ridgeback, canvassed the barn with handler Ikuko Jones following briskly behind. Jones sidestepped the hay bales as she watched intently for her dog’s “tell”: a swift, heavy swat of […]

Lauren Mulvihill didn't grow up with dogs, but that never stopped her from wanting one. Growing up, her cousin's dog Casey — “the perfect Golden to a T" — was friendly, goofy, and smart. Lauren begged her parents for a dog like Casey. “I would ask every single holiday," she says. “I'd be like, please […]

The world of dog shows, or conformation, has a unique set of language and terminology. Learn what some of the words you hear at dog shows actually mean.

2026 Annual AKC Trick Dog Competition It’s that time again!  We are pleased to announce the 2026 virtual AKC Trick Dog Competition. ENTRIES OPEN: Saturday, August 1, 2026 DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES:  Thursday, October 1, 2026 RULES for ADULT HANDLERS (U.S.) (click for rules) RULES for JUNIOR HANDLERS (U.S.) (click for rules) RULES for INTERNATIONAL HANDLERS (click for rules)   […]