Since February we have been waging a legislative battle against California Assembly Bill 1634 which would require mandatory spaying/neutering for all dogs over 4 months of age unless the owner qualifies for and purchases an intact dog permit through the local authorities. This would mean that those wishing to keep their dogs intact would be […]

Being truly unique in our mission and having a history spanning more than 120 years, there are few organizations with a heritage anything like ours. However, in recently learning more about the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), I have been struck at the many parallels it shares with the AKC. Both the AKC and AVMA […]

Despite our patriotic name, the American Kennel Club® is a world-class organization with an international presence. Earlier this month, the AKC/USA World Agility Team put in a stellar performance in Basel, Switzerland at the 11th FCI World Agility Championships. Sending Americans and their globe-trotting dogs to world competitions represents just one way in which we […]

The American Kennel Club’s structure as a “club of clubs” is unique among not-for-profit organizations. In addition to the AKC’s main charge to govern the sport of purebred dogs and uphold the integrity of the registry, we also provide valuable guidance to clubs in such areas as hosting events, enlisting new members and helping clubs […]

The recently completed sixth AKC/Eukanuba National Championship was a wonderful way to close our year by showcasing the best of the American Kennel Club, both for the dog fancy and the general public. We hosted nearly 3,000 dogs for the weekend’s three events. All 165 AKC breeds and varieties, all 50 states and 16 countries […]

The American Kennel Club offers a variety of educational resources promoting responsible dog ownership. Whether you are a long-time breeder or just getting started in the sport we encourage you to take advantage of our informational offerings.   For a comprehensive educational experience, try one of the AKC/Canine Health Foundation Breeders Symposiums. Last month in […]

I'm pleased to report that Senator Rick Santorum this past weekend provided us with an advance copy of his "discussion draft" of an amended version of the "Pet Animal Welfare Statute of 2005" (PAWS) bill. This discussion draft will be posted on the Senator's web site (http://santorum.senate.gov/public/index.cfm) this week. The draft clarifies several original provisions […]

None of us will ever forget the devastation caused by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita last year and the tireless efforts of the fancy to give generously of their time, money (more than $1 million was donated to the AKC Companion Animal Recovery Canine Support and Relief Fund) and resources to aid those animals in need.  […]

Many times when talking to fanciers and club members they tell me how being involved “in dogs” has enriched their lives tremendously and that whenever they have the opportunity they look for ways “to give back to the sport of purebred dogs.” This spirit of volunteerism exists all around us in the fancy. Among those […]

While many in the fancy focused on federal legislation pertaining to canine welfare last year, a threat to our rights and privileges as dog lovers has been gaining momentum at an alarming rate across the country - breed-specific legislation. In 2005, the AKC tracked 106 breed-specific measures. This year, through March alone, 55 measures have […]