AKC Directory Please click here to view the contact information for Staff. AKC Registered Handlers Over the years professional handlers have played an important part in the history of the sport of dogs. They have provided the support system for the top show dogs in the history of many breeds. Expertise in the care, conditioning […]

News from the State Capitols Here are some highlights of state-level issues AKC GR is currently tracking. California – AB 1648 would require anyone who has a city or county kennel license to also have an animal disaster preparedness plan.  As passed by the Assembly, there are no specific instructions or guidelines for what should […]

Obedience Resources A Beginners Guide To Companion Events  Obedience Regulations Combined Specialty General Frequently Asked Questions Obedience Field Representatives Obedience History Regional Events Qualifications Requirements Obedience Presentation (June 2009 Delegates’ Meeting) Secretaries Superintendents Committees  Versatile Companion Dogs (VCD titles) YouTube Channel - AKC Obedience and Rally Videos Obedience & Rally Judges' Newsletter Fix 'n Go […]

We have some big news to report about All-Americans succeeding at earning the top titles and honors in Agility, Coursing Ability, Fast CAT, Rally, Obedience, Scent Work, Tracking, and Trick Dog. Many dogs are also having success in AKC’s Virtual Titling programs! AGILITY Congratulations to these dogs who have earned more MACHs: MACH21 Donaldson's Daisy […]

Obedience training may just be the best gift you can give yourself, your family, and your pet. It teaches your dog appropriate social behavior with both people and animals; helps correct annoying behaviors like jumping, digging, barking, and chewing; and keeps your dog entertained and happy. A win-win all around! When to Start Training The […]

The roots of the Earthdog program go back to the beginnings of small game hunting. Farmers and hunters used the small terriers and Dachshunds to pursue vermin to its lair and then to follow the game into to the ground. These dogs had to possess not only the physical attributes that would allow them to […]

Ever hear of the phrase, “the-nose-knows”? It’s something that Beagle owners know well: Their keen sense of smell means they follow their noses wherever they take them. It also means they’re excellent hunting companions -- and why Beagles competed in one of the first field trials (“competitions”) we ever held over 125 years ago in 1888. In […]

Does your terrier or Dachshund love to dig in the dirt? Maybe he squirms his way into animal tunnels and comes out with a surprise in his mouth. What is he thinking? Well, there's a reason Dachshunds and small terriers are classified as earthdogs. Rather than trying to stop this “bad” behavior, channel the go-to-ground […]

Participating in dog sports with your dog can provide mental and physical exercise, the thrill of competition, and a chance for you both to have fun. If you’re the owner of a senior dog, you might think your dog sports days are behind you. Fortunately, there are many sports that are suited to dogs of […]

In August 2021, the AKC Virtual Scent Work Test (VSWT) pilot program began as an introduction to Scent Work for dogs and handlers. At the May 2022 AKC Board meeting, the decision was made to make the Virtual Scent Work Test permanently available to dog owners. At the board meeting, it was revealed that 10% […]