The AKC Veterinary Outreach Program welcomes the veterinary community to the AKC website. Did you know that the AKC is the only registry for purebred dogs that routinely inspects breeders using its registry, and eliminates from the registry those who do not meet AKC standards for humane care and canine welfare? Did you know that […]

Canine Body Language: Your dog is trying to tell you something You probably talk to your dog. He doesn’t reply. Or so you think. Dogs are actually very talented at communicating their wants and needs, their happiness and fear, and quite effectively, their warning signals. Dogs convey their messages primarily through body language (though barks, […]

After taking part in the fast-growing, fun, and accessible sport of dog parkour, you're not likely to look at park benches, tree stumps, or playground equipment the same way again. It's an ideal activity if attending Agility or Obedience classes isn't possible or practical. And, with a bit of imagination, any neighborhood offers boundless opportunities […]

The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) is thrilled to announce the return of the AKC’s Responsible Dog Ownership Day. This summer and fall hundreds of clubs and dog organizations around the country will host free events to educate dog lovers and owners alike about the responsibilities that come with dog ownership after a brief two-year hiatus […]

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% […]

The doorbell rings, which in many houses prompts the dog to start barking. Then, the barking prompts the owners to start yelling, and instead of stopping—the dog just barks more! Sound familiar? If this scene resembles your house, you aren't alone. This is a common situation where many owners get stuck and frustrated by a […]

Being a responsible part of the community involves ensuring that your pet is a good neighbor. But while you probably want to be polite to other people, you should also be intentional and thoughtful about interactions between your dog and human neighbors.  Being Neighborly While Knowing Your Dog Just because you're saying hello to your […]

Do you enjoy teaching your dog commands and tricks? Then the sport of AKC Rally might be for you. In Rally, a dog and their handler move together through a course made up of 10-20 signs. Each sign displays a skill to perform such as turns or behaviors like sit, down, or stay. The dog […]

So many parts of our daily lives have changed in the past few years. While our favorite dog activities — from classes and seminars to shows — have resumed safely, there are now some permanent virtual training options that you can do from the comfort of your home or on vacation. You and your dog […]

Recently, Mike Penketh and his dog, Frodo, were visiting a park where a dog training class was being held. Mike asked if they could do CGC testing, and the instructor replied, “Yes, usually after an eight-week course.” “Frodo can probably pass now,” said Mike. During this discussion, Frodo sat in a perfect heel position. The […]