When Kevin Holmes went looking for a service dog that would double as a competition teammate two years ago, he had specific idea in mind. His answer? "Natalie" the German Wirehaired Pointer.

Lacey and Luisma Benítez, of LBK American Staffordshire Terriers, are the first and only Platinum Breeders of Merit of the American Staffordshire Terrier. They are a married couple, navigating life between Spain and St. Augustine, Florida, and have been deeply involved in this breed for 20 years. Luisma, who is from Spain, is a software […]

The AKC DNA Program is proud to announce the official launch of a new DNA test, AKC DNA + Health. This test combines the original AKC DNA profile with genetic health and traits testing for a powerful breeder tool. The goal of this new test is to satisfy all the needs of breeders with just […]

The love, time and patience that breeders put into each litter is evident by the well-tempered, healthy puppies they send home with excited new puppy owners. New puppy owners may not be well informed about the benefits of pet insurance and turn to their breeder for advice. To help breeders best advise their puppy buyers, […]

The American Kennel Club (AKC®), a not-for-profit organization, the world’s largest purebred dog registry and leading advocate for dogs, is excited to announce AKC® DNA + Health. This new test combines genetic health and traits testing with AKC DNA identification, creating a powerful tool for breeders. “At the AKC, we’re always looking for tools to […]

Watch a dog show, and the routine looks so easy. But handling a dog in the conformation ring is harder than it looks, and takes practice.

AKC Breeders of Merit share tips on how to groom a German Shepherd Dog, from best brushes to dealing with nails.

Nominees in Conformation Michael Canalizo Michael Canalizo has spent many years in the Dog Show World as a Breeder/Owner, Professional Handler, turned Judge. His first exposure to his primary breed: the Afghan Hound came in 1961 as a member of “the typical Hobby Breeder family” with their purchase of “Babu Bamn of Grandeur”. He showed […]

In its endless pursuit to recognize outstanding members of the fancy, The American Kennel Club Lifetime Achievement Awards were created and first awarded in 1999 to honor our best. The purpose of the awards is to celebrate those individuals whose many years of dedication have led to significant contributions to our Sport on a national […]

You might have a dog you've dreamed of showing in a Conformation event, but how do you know when they're ready to compete for the first time? You can set your dog up for success by getting them used to the noise and busy atmosphere of a show. You can also train and socialize your […]