As the temperatures continue to rise, so does the AKC Government Relations team’s outreach across the nation, including partnering with you to advocate at state legislatures and providing new materials that enable you to be more effective in communicating on the federal, state, and local levels. With multiple federal measures advancing, we often hear from […]

Owning a dog is one of the greatest pleasures and highlights of our life. But there is a downside to loving a dog, and that’s the huge difference between our life expectancy and theirs. “Everyone wants to live as long as possible, and we want the same for our family members and pets,” says Dr. […]

When it comes to communication, dogs are significantly better at interpreting our body language than we are theirs. Humans rely on verbal language more heavily than body language, whereas dogs are just the opposite. Unfortunately, this often means we are left scratching our heads, wondering what our dogs are trying to tell us. Shaking is […]

On April 26, the California Assembly Business and Professions Committee is scheduled to consider Assembly Bill 1881, known as the “Dog and Cat Bill of Rights”. California residents are strongly encouraged to upload letters to the online committee portal by April 19 to ensure they are included in the official committee analysis. Also, if you […]

Rescuing a dog is exciting but can also be intimidating. Whether you’re looking at the local shelter or using a private rescue organization, there can be many dogs to choose from. Although you might be tempted to pick the first cute face you see, it’s essential to make an informed choice. Your goal is to […]

The Heimlich maneuver, performed to save someone from choking, is a familiar operation. You may not have seen it done in person, but it's often written into television or movie storylines, whether as a gag or something more serious. Or you might have learned how to do it yourself on a medical dummy in a […]

It's no secret that every owner thinks that their dog is special — especially those dogs that have qualified for the 2022 AKC National Agility Championship (NAC), which is being held in Ocala, Florida on April 1-3 this year.   But one of these dogs has earned a title that bears no acronym or ribbon: Hero. […]

On April 26, the California Assembly Business and Professions Committee is scheduled to consider Assembly Bill 1881, known as the “Dog and Cat Bill of Rights”. AKC staff and our representatives in California are working hard to communicate concerns with the author’s office, the committee,  and requesting significant amendments – but we need your help! […]

Competition/Titles Update Winter 2022 We have some big news to report about All-Americans succeeding at earning the top titles and honors in Agility, Coursing Ability, Fast CAT Rally, Obedience, Scent Work, Tracking, and Trick Dog. Many dogs are also having success in AKC’s Virtual Titling programs! AGILITY Agility Grand Champion (AGCH) AGCH MACH3 Up&Running A […]

Rescue Dog Provides Vital Services at Crisis Center Spaniel-mix Penny is a valued staff member at Crisis Center North in Pennsylvania. Her ability to “read” clients and give them the help they need has earned her an Honorable Mention honor in the 2021 AKC Awards for Canine Excellence. Read her story: Office staff looked forward […]