SORT BY
![](https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn-origin-etr.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/13122953/Cavalier-King-Charles-Spaniels-in-harnesses-on-leads-meeting-each-other-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Puppy Health
When Can My Puppy Meet Other Dogs?
Early socialization is important. But it's also important to keep your puppy safe. Here's when to have your puppy meet other dogs.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/can-puppy-meet-dogs/
| October 11, 2021
![rhodesian ridgeback hound puppy in a bed](https://www.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Rhodesian-Ridgeback-puppy-laying-in-a-bundle-of-blankets-looking-back-over-its-shoulder-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Puppy Information
How Long Can You Leave a Puppy Alone?
You can leave a puppy alone for small amounts of time as they grow and mature, but it takes patience and training for them to learn how and be comfortable.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/puppy-information/leave-puppy-alone/
| August 4, 2021
![](https://www.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Great-Pyrenees-getting-pet-by-a-woman-in-a-pasture-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Health
Lumps and Bumps on Dog’s Skin: Signs, Symptoms, Causes
While skin bumps and strange lumps should always be taken seriously, certain types of bumps are more common than you might think.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-skin-lumps-bumps/
| September 15, 2021
![Siberian Husky Cinnar wins Best in Show at Westminster 1980](https://www.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Siberian-Husky-Cinnar-Westminster-Best-in-Show-1980-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Dog Sports
Dogs With Missing “Parts” Succeed at AKC Events
Can dogs with missing tails, ears, or eyes compete in AKC conformations shows? It depends on the missing part and the breed standard.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/sports/dogs-with-missing-parts-dog-sports/
| January 9, 2024
![](https://www.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/VOT-BelgianTerv-heeling-2-400x267.jpg)
Sports & Events
AKC Virtual Obedience Test
Responsible dog ownership includes training your dog to be a well-mannered and happy companion. Obedience training is the foundation for all the fun activities and performance sports available to you and your dog. The American Kennel Club Virtual Obedience Test program provides an opportunity for exhibitors to train their dogs, evaluate their skill and teamwork, […]
https://www.akc.org/sports/obedience/virtual-obedience-test/
| February 22, 2021
Sports & Events
AKC Rally® Virtual Program
The AKC Rally® Virtual Program has been made a permanent sport feature with AKC. AKC Rally® Virtual Program The AKC Companion Events Department is excited to announce the AKC Rally Virtual Program has been approved as a permanent sport feature with AKC. The Rally Novice, Rally Intermediate, Rally Advanced and Rally Excellent classes will be […]
https://www.akc.org/sports/rally/rally-virtual-entry/
| April 23, 2020
Legislative Alerts
NH: Hearing on January 16 – Oppose Restrictions on Certain Breeders, Pet Sales
On Tuesday, January 16, 2024, the New Hampshire (NH) House Environment and Agriculture Committee will hear public testimony on HB 1680, which seeks to restrict newly-defined “retail pet stores” to include anyone with a physical facility who transfers more than 30 dogs per year at retail. Residents and New Hampshire breeders are strongly encouraged to […]
https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/nh-hearing-january-16-oppose-restrictions-certain-breeders-pet-sales/
| January 9, 2024
![Flat Coated Retriever puppies playing outdoors.](https://www.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Flat-Coated-Retriever-puppies-playing-outdoors-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Lifestyle
How to Set Up a Puppy Playdate
Socialization is an important part of puppyhood. Learn advice and tips for setting up a puppy playdate with dogs outside your household.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/how-to-host-a-puppy-playdate/
| May 26, 2021
![](https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn-origin-etr.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/09093916/Nova-Scotia-Duck-Tolling-Retriever-History-07-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Breed History
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever History: Canada’s Decoy Dog
The smallest of the retrievers, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is an intelligent obedience dog. Read more about the history of this peerless gundog.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/nova-scotia-duck-tolling-retriever-history-canadas-decoy-dog/
| September 14, 2021
![](https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn-origin-etr.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/08162539/FIT-DOG-7-h-final-400x267.png)
Expert Advice: Fitness & Exercise
The Southwest Obedience Club of Los Angeles Goes the Distance with AKC FIT DOG
Whether they're going solo or in a group, dog owners are taking part in AKC FIT DOG challenges to keep themselves and their dogs in shape. One such group is members of the Southwest Obedience Club of Los Angeles, who found their love of fitness together — almost by accident.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/akc-fit-dog-southwest-obedience-club-of-los-angeles/
| January 8, 2024