No one can keep the Lab down! The American Kennel Club (AKC®) announced at a virtual press conference today at the AKC Museum of the Dog that the ever-popular Labrador Retriever is the nation’s favorite dog for the 31st consecutive year. While the loveable Lab remains a constant at the top of the charts, the […]

It was a call that all breeders dread. The young couple, who had adored their puppy, reported they had a new baby, leaving no time for their dog. Teri NeSmith did not hesitate. “I gladly take any of my puppies back if the owner lets me know that they don’t want the dog. In fact, […]

What’s your word recognition when it comes to Guinness – a world’s authority on record-breaking achievements or an iconic Irish beer? Well, there’s a four-legged option begging for your attention, too, who comes from a long line of champions. Meet CH There’s Nothing Like a Guinness, a 7-year-old, 40-pound Puli, owned and bred by Fran […]

Despite or perhaps as a result of the stress and unusual health precautions Americans experienced in 2020, people focused more than ever on their pets. For the first time, pet industry sales exceeded $100 billion, according to American Pet Products Association (APPA) 2020 State of the Industry Report. This tidal wave of spending is expected […]

A normal litter size can range from 1 to 12 puppies, with 5-6 puppies being average across all dogs. But just as every breed of dog differs by size, function, and personality, they also differ when it comes to litter size, according to AKC registration data. Big dogs tend to have larger litters while small […]

Bold, spirited, and charming, Shiba Inus can also be a handful. But that doesn't diminish their popularity. Learn more and you'll become a fan of the breed.

Here at the AKC, we never get tired of learning more about dogs, whether it's a new study on canine behavior, a statistic from our database, or even just cool facts about a dog's impressive physical and mental abilities. You may know some of these already, and others may be more of a "wait, really?" […]

Which breeds make the best family dogs? What are the best dog breeds for kids? We've compiled some of the best dog breeds for families and kids.

Lab lovers continue to make their voices heard! The American Kennel Club (AKC®) announced at a virtual press conference today at the AKC Museum of the Dog that the ever-popular Labrador Retriever is the nation’s favorite dog for the 30th consecutive year. While the loveable Lab holds firmly to the top spot, the French Bulldog […]

Growing up on a farm, Adrienne Hales developed a love of raising animals at an early age. Her passion turned to pets at the age of 8 when she began breeding Teddy Bear Hamsters for her friends. Her dedication to detail included designing their playgrounds and building them with paper towel rolls. At age 12, […]