This past weekend, the 2023 Texas Regular Legislative Session adjourned. AKC tracked 49 bills this session, and below are updates on significant bills of interest impacting Texas dog owners, trainers, and handlers. A special session was called and began on May 30. AKC will continue to track newly introduced legislation throughout the special session. We […]

Caring for the New Family Dog As the owner of a new puppy, you can expect the loveable little creature to: Chew the leather handle on your guitar case, the plastic lever on your home office chair, and the wooden leg of your walnut veneer coffee table. Whimper at the side of your bed at […]

Governor Abbot has signed SB 876 further regulating Texas dog breeders. While the new law goes into effect on September 1, 2023, someone that owns between 5 and 11 intact females will have until January 1, 2024, to come into compliance.  The law will require anyone that both owns 5 or more intact females and […]

You've done all the new puppy owner preparation: You researched and asked questions about the right breed for you, you selected a responsible breeder from whom to acquire your puppy, you puppy-proofed your home, and you spent more hours than you'd care to admit watching videos of dog training tips on AKC.tv. Good job getting off to […]

You’re getting a puppy, and you can’t wait to bring home that adorable bundle of fur. You don’t want to miss one minute of your new baby’s puppyhood. But wait. Bringing home a puppy who is too young can affect the behaviors your dog will have for the rest of his life – and not […]

You’ve made the decision to welcome a new dog into your family. Now comes the fun part – finding the perfect dog. There’s a lot to consider. Before you commit, ask yourself these five questions. What’s Your Schedule? Think about your lifestyle. Do you work long hours? Struggle to get out the door in the […]

Getting a dog should be a well-planned decision to ensure a lifelong commitment. Dogs are not objects that are returned if you change your mind because they have become too big, too energetic, or too time-consuming to care for properly. For the greatest chance for success, put forth the effort to find the best match […]

Most of life's major acquisitions require a legal contract, from purchasing a house to leasing a car. Add to that list bringing home a purebred dog. Reputable breeders almost universally require anyone who provides a home to one of their dogs to sign a contract. But if you've never purchased a dog from a reputable […]

If you’re considering getting a second dog, there are questions you should answer and steps you should take to prepare for the responsibility that comes with training the new dog and helping your current dog adjust. Questions to Ask Yourself Before you jump into this new commitment, ask yourself these questions: Is your current dog […]

Originally appeared on dogcanceranswers.com, where Dr. Jerry Klein was asked to be part of a podcast discussing the responsible ways to get a dog. Dr. Jerry Klein, the Chief Veterinary Officer of the American Kennel Club, joins Dog Cancer Answers to discuss things to look for when choosing a breeder to increase the odds of […]