See below for useful articles and resources including commonly asked questions and data from the American Kennel Club and its affiliates. Breeds by Year Recognized AKC National Breed Clubs: Breed Rescue Family Tips Puppy Buying Why Purebreds? Responsible Breeders Seniors When to See the Vet Bereavement What is Agility? Top Breeds in Major U.S. Cities […]

Before discussing pregnancy in dogs, it is important to stress that the breeding of pure-bred dogs is a serious endeavor best taken on only by responsible breeders, breeders who have studied all the intricacies of a particular breed of dog and are committed to maintaining and improving type, temperament and health.  Knowledge of a breed’s […]

New and advancing bills that impact animals and animal owners are scheduled for hearings at the Florida State Legislature on Tuesday, January 28, 2020.  SB 186 is on the agenda of the Senate Judiciary Committee.  This bill would provide that certain contracts for the sale or lease of a pet are void and unenforceable. The […]

Thousands of dog-lovers made their way to the Javits Center Jan. 25 and 26 for the 11th annual AKC Meet the Breeds®, an unforgettable weekend full of canine fun and education. Adults and children alike went from petting Afghan Hounds to Yorkshire Terriers, learning about purebred dogs and responsible pet ownership along the way. So […]

Many first-time puppy owners feel overwhelmed in the early weeks of bringing home their new addition. As a responsible breeder, there is much that can be done to alleviate some of the more common issues owners have with new puppies before you send your precious litters out to their new homes. Addressing common problems before they begin can set your puppies up for success in their […]

Yesterday, the New Hampshire House Environment and Agriculture Committee took testimony on three dog bills and delayed testimony for two weeks on HB 1389.  AKC’s prior alert and details on bills scheduled for this hearing can be reviewed here. Updates from the Committee hearing:  American Kennel Club Government Relations (AKC GR) testified with the New […]

From Our Nation's Capitol AKC Government Relations team continues to monitor Congress for issues of interest to dog owners. Visit our 2020 Legislation Tracking page and click on “US Fed” on the map to get the latest updates on federal bills currently being monitored by the AKC. Highlights of issues we are currently addressing on the federal […]

What’s New from AKC Government Relations This issue of Taking Command highlights major issues and emerging trends in legislation over the past year.  In 2019, the Government Relations department tracked more bills than ever before. Success in protecting the rights of dog owners and ensuring the well-being of dogs is achieved through the hard work of […]

AKC Government Relations Reflects on Record 2019 Legislative Year 2019 was a record year for AKC Government Relations, with the team tracking over 2,300 bills on the federal, state and local levels across all 50 states. This marks a significant increase, with over 300 more bills than 2018, and the most bills ever tracked by […]

Responsible purebred breeders help ensure their puppies will grow into happy, healthy dogs. Here are just 10 of the reasons why I'll be buying a purebred puppy. Once I begin looking for a puppy of my own, AKC Marketplace will connect me with a responsible dog breeder who loves their dogs like family. The breeder […]