Cynthia S. writes, "My adult Great Dane has been exhibiting a few behavior problems. She's chewing things around the house that are not edible, but only does it when we are gone. She's great at playing outside unleashed until it's time to come in, then she takes off running and I have to chase her […]

Amanda Halsey, a hobby breeder of Toy Fox Terriers (TFTs), lives in West Central Ohio. Her dogs are bred under the kennel name DynAsty Toy Fox Terriers. She has been breeding and showing TFTs for 16 years. AKC: How did you get started in breeding dogs? Halsey: I showed horses competitively, starting around age 12, and […]

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines "breed" as a group of usually domesticated animals or plants with identifiable characteristics that distinguish them from other members of their species; especially a group that's characteristics are preserved by controlled mating or propagating. "Breed type" refers to basic form. The entire dog must be taken into consideration in determining proper […]

Photo courtesy Melissa Hampton Photography   A dog-show newbie says handling isn’t as easy as it looks, but it sure is exciting. In “Talking Sports” we present advice from high achievers in the world of dog sports. But in this edition, about conformation dog shows, we thought it would be fun to see the sport […]

It’s September, and everyone is in back-to-school mode. Are you looking to get your pup involved in a few extracurriculars? Here are some suggestions for ways you can become further ingrained in the dog community, either through your breed club or another organization. Handling classes are always in demand. Many new owners are embracing the […]

A little girl’s close relationship with her Labrador Retriever puppy may have saved her life. Last week, Amanda Goodman picked up her six-year-old daughter, Olivia, from school after the child became sick. According to ETV, Olivia was napping on the couch with her nine-month-old puppy, Baxter, when, unbeknown to the mother, she began to have […]

A promising puppy from your last litter has gotten off to a smashing start with his owner-handler. He made his debut at your breed’s national specialty by winning Best in Sweepstakes, and shortly thereafter beat impressive adult competition to claim his first major. His owner exhibits him beautifully; they have built a great rapport; and […]

You can teach your dog to do many different things, but there are a few general guidelines that will help make sure your training goes well.  The American Kennel Club’s (AKC®) Canine Good Citizen® Director Mary Burch offers the top tips for effectively training your four-legged friend. Do reward behaviors you like.  Observe carefully when […]

  The following breed classes will be offered at all FSS Open Shows: 4-6 month puppy, 6-9 month puppy, 9-12 month puppy, bred-by-exhibitor, and open class. Clubs may elect to divide or combine classes by sex. Division of sexes will be uniformly applied to all breeds and shall be published in the premium list and […]

Left to their own devices, young puppies can get in a lot of trouble, from soiling the carpet to chewing your favorite pair of shoes. That’s why it’s important to start training early and keep a close eye on them, especially when they’re still learning what’s expected of them. And the best way to do […]