The AKC Government Relations Department is pleased to assist dog owners with canine legislation issues in their local communities, but we can’t help unless we are aware of the proposal. Please contact us at (919) 816-3720 or doglaw@akc.org when new laws are discussed or introduced in your city or county. We will provide you with resources and […]

On Wednesday, November 17, more than one dozen animal bills impacting dogs and breeders are on the agenda for review by the Massachusetts Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture (JENRA). The virtual public hearing is scheduled to start at 2pm.  The American Kennel Club Government Relations Department (AKC GR) has tracked most of […]

On Friday, October 22, the New York State Legislature sent a bill to the governor that would prohibit homeowner’s insurance providers from refusing or cancelling coverage or increasing premiums based solely on the breed of dog owned by the policyholder. For the past 10 years, AKC has advocated for legislation in New York on this […]

Lovingly referred to as the “hot dog dog", the “wiener dog," and the “sausage dog", the Dachshund is a cute and outgoing breed. Their legs are short, their bodies are comically long, and their barks are brave. These little firecrackers are not only filled with personality, but also a loving nature that's expressed from the […]

The Colorado Springs City Council has proposed an ordinance to ban the retail sale of cats and dogs at pet stores in the city. The council will hold a meeting on November 9 at 10:00am where they will begin considering the newly drafted ordinance. The ordinance would continue to allow pet stores to operate but […]

News from the State Capitols Here are some highlights of state-level issues AKC GR is currently tracking. California – AB 468 would further clarify the difference between trained service dogs and emotional support animals, and particularly emphasizes that emotional support animals should not be granted the same privileges and access. The bill was signed by […]

Issues at the City, County, and Metropolitan Levels, and in US Territories The AKC Government Relations Department is pleased to assist dog owners with canine legislation issues in their local communities, but we can’t help unless we are aware of the proposal. Please contact us at (919) 816-3720 or doglaw@akc.org when new laws are discussed or introduced […]

The Horry County Council will hold a first reading on a proposed animal ordinance tomorrow, October 19, 2021. Animal owners are urged to review the proposed ordinance and express their concerns to council members.  Click to view the agenda and proposed ordinance. The American Kennel Club (AKC) thanks county staff who have been responsive to […]

German Shepherd Dogs are marked by their smarts, confidence, and unshakable bravery. While the breed is all of those powerful things, they are also graceful, gentle souls who can be a great match for the right family. Like with any pet though, it's important to fully understand a breed's specific needs and personality before bringing […]

This is not just another shaggy-dog story. Also known as the Polski Owczarek Nizinny, or PON for those of us who are Slavicly-challenged, the hearty Polish Lowland Sheepdog joined the Herding Group and became AKC-recognized in 2001. On the cuteness scale alone, it was no surprise that this dog stirred up a lot of enthusiasm […]