SORT BY
![Australian Shepherds were bred to be herding dogs. Even as puppies, the breed exhibits the desire to herd and guard.](https://www.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Three-Australian-Shepherd-puppies-sitting-in-a-field-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Preparing for Puppy
What Is ‘Pet-Quality’? The Difference Between Show Dogs & Pet Puppies
Among inexperienced dog seekers, one question looms early in the process of finding that perfect puppy. Pet or show dog? This is an inquiry often asked by breeders, but you may find yourself wondering, "how should I know?" Of course, every puppy will fulfill that first category as a loyal companion. And hopefully, they'll be […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/puppy-information/difference-between-show-dogs-and-pet-puppies/
| April 15, 2021
![Closeup of healthy Golden Retriever puppy on examination table at vet's office. The dog is happy and eager to go home. One of the vet's is holding the dog while the other is in background, using a microscope,](https://www.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/GettyImages-589118396-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Puppy Health
What to Expect at Your Puppy’s First Vet Visit
Finally, it’s the exciting day you’ve been anticipating for months, maybe even years. Your new puppy is ready to come home with you. You’ve gotten your crate, food, and other supplies, you’ve chosen a place for training and socialization, and you’re ready to start an amazing adventure with a little ball of fluff who is […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/puppys-first-vet-visit/
| August 5, 2022
![two puppies cause mess in house](https://www.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/puppy-proofing-your-house-and-yard-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Preparing for Puppy
Puppy-Proofing Tips for Your Home And Yard
Congratulations! You’ve taken the plunge and joined the exciting and sometimes chaotic world of dog ownership. By now, you’ve probably done some research and have an understanding of how to care for your new puppy. Your house is going to be the place where your dog spends the majority of their life, so it’s vitally […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/puppy-information/puppy-proofing-tips-for-your-home-and-yard/
| March 24, 2023
![Otterhound puppy chewing on a treat in the grass.](https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn-origin-etr.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/23152732/Otterhound-puppy-chewing-on-a-treat-in-the-grass-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
10 Reasons I’m Going to Buy a Purebred Dog
Responsible purebred breeders help ensure their puppies will grow into happy, healthy dogs. Here are just 10 of the reasons why I'll be buying a purebred puppy. Once I begin looking for a puppy of my own, AKC Marketplace will connect me with a responsible dog breeder who loves their dogs like family. The breeder […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/10-reasons-im-going-to-buy-a-purebred-dog/
| January 13, 2020
![](https://www.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/trick-dog-competition-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Dog Sports
Trick Dog 101: What to Know
Any dog can learn and perfect new tricks, and trick training is becoming more popular with both pet owners and experienced dog sports competitors. AKC Trick Dog is a great way to bond with your dog and provide your pet with mental and physical exercise.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/sports/trick-dog-101-what-to-know/
| May 23, 2023
![French Bulldog sitting on the couch home alone.](https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn-origin-etr.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/19194159/French-Bulldog-sitting-on-the-couch-home-alone-400x267.jpeg)
Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
The Most Popular Dog Breeds of 2022
The AKC uses registration data to collect the most popular breeds of the past year, and for the first time in history, the French Bulldog takes the #1 spot
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/most-popular-dog-breeds-2022/
| March 15, 2023
Products & Services
Forms for Titles
VHM Checklist - Puppy VHM Checklist – Adult VHM Title Application To apply for your title via the new online (secure) portal so you can track it, use the link below. This is also a much faster method. https://www.apps.akc.org/title-application-portal/
https://www.akc.org/products-services/training-programs/canine-good-citizen/akc-family-dog-program/virtual-home-manners/forms-for-titles/
| September 21, 2020
Clubs & Delegates
Federal Issues May 2023
AKC Government Relations continues to monitor Congress for issues of interest to dog owners. Visit our 2023 Legislation Tracking map and click on “Federal Bills” on the map to get the latest updates on federal bills currently being monitored by the AKC. Highlights of issues we are currently addressing on the federal level include: U.S. Congress – HR […]
https://www.akc.org/clubs-delegates/government-relations/newsletters/taking-command/federal-issues-may-2023/
| May 22, 2023
Clubs & Delegates
What’s New in GR May 2023
The Westminster Kennel Club show was held last week at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center and televised to millions of dog lovers around the World. The show ring is one of the few places where an expert can judge a dog, based on its written breed standard, of how capable it is […]
https://www.akc.org/clubs-delegates/government-relations/newsletters/taking-command/whats-new-gr-may-2023/
| May 22, 2023
Legislative Alerts
Texas: Continue Urging Governor Abbott to Veto SB 876
SB 876 was officially sent to Governor Abbott on May 17 and is now pending his consideration. The bill will require anyone that both owns 5 or more intact females and is engaged in the business of breeding those dogs for sale to secure a state license. It is vitally important that Governor Abbot hears […]
https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/texas-continue-urging-governor-abbott-veto-sb-876/
| May 19, 2023