Though we often don’t think about them in this way, dogs are really about people — those long-ago (or, sometimes, not-so-long-ago) figures who developed particular breeds for particular tasks. Some breeds — like the Doberman Pinscher, Teddy Roosevelt Terrier, and Cesky Terrier — owe their existence to just one visionary person. Other breeds were brought into being […]

In recent years, the French Bulldog has blossomed in popularity, becoming America’s most sought-after breed in 2022. With their bat-like ears, flat faces, and compact frames, the Frenchie is instantly recognizable: and absolutely adorable. As with any pet, read up on their specific needs and traits to make sure that a French Bulldog is the […]

Earlier this week, the United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA APHIS) announced that it has extended the comment period for future proposed changes to the federal Animal Welfare Act’s (AWA) rules and standards, including adding regulatory requirements to address species-specific environmental enrichment for dogs and other regulated animals.  Originally […]

The deadline has passed for bills to be introduced in the California state Legislature. AKC is monitoring several bills impacting dog owners in California. Below are a few highlights. To see the complete list visit the AKC legislative action center at www.akcgr.org  and/or the AKC legislative tracker.  AKC Government Relations (AKC GR) will continue to […]

We dog people can be an emotional bunch. We care very deeply about our dogs and every aspect of the sport: their breeding, their health, their assessment in the show ring, and their influence on future generations. We don’t sit idly by when criticism is aimed our way, but that's where dog show etiquette comes […]

From sporting dogs to toy breeds, show dogs must look the part. “Miss America does not just sit on the couch eating potato chips before a pageant,” says Susan Hamil, a veteran of the dog show world. “It’s the same for show dogs.” Hamil, a judge and fancier of Bloodhounds, is one of the four […]

Yesterday, the Oklahoma Senate voted 45-2 to approve Senate Bill 349, which makes positive changes to breeder reporting requirements. The bill repeals a section of the Commercial Pet Breeder’s and Animal Shelter Licensing Act that requires commercial breeders to file a yearly report with the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry (ODAFF) that specifies […]

News from the State Capitols Here are some highlights of state-level issues AKC GR is currently tracking. Alabama – SB 2 as pre-filed seeks to prohibit inmates from participating in training of dogs for tracking humans. AKC is monitoring this legislation. California – AB-240: This proposal would create a tax on the sale of pet […]

Federal Regulatory Update – The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced in late January that it is extending current requirements for the import of live dogs from countries at high risk for rabies. These requirements had been due to expire January 31, 2023.  Under current requirements established in June 2022 all categories of […]

A bill scheduled for consideration on Wednesday, February 22, would allow for a person to face forfeiture of their animals for virtually any violation of state law regarding the care of animals, even without a conviction. Illinois residents are strongly encouraged to take the actions listed below prior to Wednesday’s hearing to express your concerns […]