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![Golden Retriever laying down on a dog bed at home.](https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn-origin-etr.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/09135249/Golden-Retriever-laying-down-on-a-dog-bed-at-home-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Common Conditions
Hip Dysplasia in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, Treatment
Hip dysplasia is a common condition in dogs. Learn what to know about hip dysplasia including symptoms, treatment options, and preventative measures.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/hip-dysplasia-in-dogs/
| May 3, 2022
![Basenji breed dog sitting on carpet wooden floor at home. Top view](https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn-origin-etr.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/03145307/Basenji-sitting-on-the-rug-at-home-400x267.jpeg)
Expert Advice: Lifestyle
Should I Get A Dog? How to Know If You’re Ready
You say you want a dog every time you see a friendly Golden Retriever on the street. But are you actually prepared to bring one into your home? As much as we love the idea of having a canine companion to love unconditionally, being a responsible dog owner is a lot of work. Before getting […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/should-i-get-a-dog/
| May 3, 2022
![Golden Retriever nursing a litter of puppies.](https://www.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Golden-retriever-nursing-a-litter-of-puppies-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Dog Breeding
So You Want to Breed a Litter? What to Know Beforehand
What should you know before breeding a litter of puppies? Our experts tell you what to consider before you begin the process.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeding/so-you-want-to-breed-your-first-dog-litter/
| August 17, 2022
![Great Pyrenees getting pet by a woman in a pasture.](https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn-origin-etr.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/07115638/Great-Pyrenees-getting-pet-by-a-woman-in-a-pasture-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Lifestyle
75 Ways to Be a Responsible Dog Owner
Owning a dog is a joy, privilege, and responsibility. If you are considering bringing a dog into your life, think seriously about the commitment that being a responsible dog owner entails. The AKC is committed to protecting the health and well-being of all dogs. In honor of AKC's Responsible Dog Ownership Day, on September 17th, […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/responsible-dog-owner/
| August 30, 2022
![](https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn-origin-etr.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/05121751/shutterstock_253648714-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Dog Sports
How Do I Get Started in Dog Shows?
Participating in dog shows can undoubtedly feel daunting for newcomers. Follow these tips to help you and your dog to feel comfortable in the ring.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/sports/how-to-get-started-in-dog-show-conformation/
| December 13, 2022
Legislative Alerts
US Senate: Goldie’s Act Allows for Seizure of Dogs for Undefined ‘Psychological Harm’ – Oppose Now
Late last week, Goldie’s Act (HR 1788/S 4033), was introduced in the U.S. Senate. This harmful bill: Redefines “violations” of the federal Animal Welfare Act; Allows for immediate seizure or euthanasia of animals suffering from “psychological harm”, a term it does not define; Removes distinctions between minor non-compliances such as paperwork errors and animal care […]
https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/us-senate-goldies-act-allows-seizure-dogs-undefined-psychological-harm-oppose-now/
| March 25, 2024
Legislative Alerts
VT: Hearing on March 27 – Oppose Restrictions on Pet Sales
On Wednesday, March 27, 2024, the Vermont House Committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry will hear testimony on HB 567, which seeks to restrict retail pet sales by: Requiring the one current Vermont pet store to maintain ownership in order to continue selling dogs and cats, and cap sales at the same number they […]
https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/vt-hearing-march-27-oppose-restrictions-pet-sales/
| March 25, 2024
Legislative Alerts
NH Alert: House to Vote Thursday on Extremist Bill to Criminalize Some Breeders
SUMMARY: On Thursday, March 28, 2024, the New Hampshire House of Representatives is expected to vote on House Bill 1102, an extremist bill that seeks to describe brachycephaly as a “birth deformity that causes suffering” and would criminalize the sale and breeding of brachycephalic dogs and any dog that could be claimed to have a […]
https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/nh-alert-house-vote-thursday-extremist-bill-criminalize-breeders/
| March 25, 2024
![](https://www.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/AdobeStock_174740556-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: General Health
Should You Always Spay-Neuter Your Dog?
Routine spaying and neutering of dogs is generally accepted, and some doggy daycares and dog parks don't allow intact male dogs or female dogs in heat. In addition, many states require dogs in rescue shelters to be spayed or neutered before they're placed in a home, often at just a few months old. Along with […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/should-you-spay-neuter-dogs/
| November 20, 2019
Legislative Alerts
US Congress: Ask Senators Scott and Rubio Today to Oppose Harmful Goldie’s Act
Dear Club, Officers, Legislative Liaisons and Delegates, please share this alert immediately with club members and other dog enthusiasts in Florida. Currently, animal rights/ “protection” groups are actively lobbying members of the U.S. Senate to introduce Goldie’s Act, a harmful bill that undermines the rights of responsible breeders. Your Senators, particularly Senator Scott, need to […]
https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/us-congress-ask-senators-scott-rubio-today-oppose-harmful-goldies-act/
| March 21, 2024