Golden Retrievers exist today thanks to one man — Dudley Marjoribanks, the first Lord Tweedmouth. In the 19th century, the preferred color was black.

Though we often don’t think about them in this way, dogs are really about people — those long-ago (or, sometimes, not so long-ago) figures who developed particular breeds for particular tasks. Some breeds — like the Doberman Pinscher, Teddy Roosevelt Terrier, and Cesky Terrier — owe their existence to just one visionary person. Other breeds were brought into being […]

There just seems to be no stopping the Labrador Retriever! For a record 29th year (2019), the versatile sporting breed reigns supreme on the American Kennel Club registry list, a run like no other breed has seen in the record books. Changes in the top ten Little changed in the top ten standings from 2018. Following […]

The Golden Retriever may be America's third most popular dog breed, but Tammy Tomlinson is not your average Golden owner. From her Ligonier, Pennsylvania-based Hillock Goldens kennel, Tomlinson has bred, owned, and handled the adored Sporting Group breed for over 40 years, and produced scores of conformation champions and dog sport athletes across the spectrum. […]

Many of us originally selected our breeds based on general appearance, compatible temperament, and acceptable grooming and exercise requirements. While we each remain staunchly faithful to our breeds of choice, the time may come when downsizing, for whatever reason, becomes a desired option. Perhaps it’s a move to smaller living space or the inability to […]

Miniature Schnauzer Takes 'Best in Show'  The American Kennel Club is happy to announce the winner of the 1st ever AKC Virtual Top Dog Challenge. The inaugural event garnered 689 entries. GCHP CH Carmel Sky High Wish Upon a Star, a Miniature Schnauzer known as “Twink,” was awarded Best in Show by AKC Judge and […]

The Iowa Legislature has passed a bill that will amend several of the state’s cruelty laws. A number of confusing and problematic provisions were removed from the bill, but some questions still remain.  House File 737 will soon be sent to the governor; those who reside or participate in dog events in Iowa are encouraged […]

According to a May 18, 2020, article, as Vermont begins to re-open from the COVID-19 pandemic, animal importers have asked Governor Phil Scott to authorize the resumption of interstate pet transports to supply Vermont shelters with dogs sourced from outside the state.  The article also details how some shelters are considering breeding dogs themselves to […]

The Connecticut Department of Agriculture has proposed new regulations that, among other provisions, seek to provide operational standards and facility requirements for animal shelters.  The American Kennel Club (AKC) supports the proposal and encourages all Connecticut stakeholders to contact the Department of Agriculture to express support and request strengthening the provisions of PR2017-060 before the […]

State Issues: News from the State Capitols Here are some highlights of state-level issues AKC GR is currently tracking. Visit the 2020 Legislation Tracking page and click on your state to get the latest updates on state bills monitored by the AKC. Alabama – HB 209 seeks to authorize food service establishments to allow pet dogs in […]