State Issues: 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 is […]

Local/Other: 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 […]

Long on looks and short on training time, Dachshund puppies are fast learners. This determined and highly intelligent hound will follow your instructions, especially if you motivate them to follow your direction, and positive lessons speed the process. Walter Jones, First Vice President of the Dachshund Club of America, remembers George, his family's first Smooth […]

At first glance,  you wouldn't be able to tell that Cheyenne is the oldest dog competing at the 2021 AKC Rally National Championship. Lively and energetic, the Australian Shepherd defies her age -- 15 years old. More impressive, this is the senior dog's first AKC Nationals event. But Cheyenne is not at all new to […]

The Vizsla was developed in Hungary centuries ago as both a versatile hunting dog and a devoted companion, and the breed today retains those combined qualities. Vizslas typically love to do things with their owners, and they’re curious and interested in all kinds of activities. Vizslas are athletic and exuberant. (Bob Holmes/AKC Photo Contest) With […]

Lauren Mulvihill didn't grow up with dogs, but that never stopped her from wanting one. Growing up, her cousin's dog Casey — “the perfect Golden to a T" — was friendly, goofy, and smart. Lauren begged her parents for a dog like Casey. “I would ask every single holiday," she says. “I'd be like, please […]

While good hygiene habits are essential for a healthy dog, unlike humans, most dogs do not require daily hygiene and grooming habits. What is required, and how often, depends on the breed. The Afghan Hound, Poodle, and Komondor — just to name a few — require regular grooming (but are certainly worth the effort), whereas […]

When Bingley and owner Denise Fitzgerald wake up in the morning, he climbs on top of her, places a paw on each side of her neck, and pushes his little flat face against hers. After that greeting, the day just gets better and better for the Templeton, Calif., pair — and everyone they encounter. Bingley, […]

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS),  announced on June 24 that it is re-issuing a rule to require that breeder/dealers, research facilities, intermediate handlers, carriers and other animal enterprises subject to USDA licensing establish emergency/ contingency planning in the event of a natural or manmade disaster or […]

  The AKC Detection Dog Task Force has launched its Pilot Detection Puppy Rearing Program – an opportunity for breeders and owners to work closely with experts on raising dogs that will have the potential to be trained for explosives detection work. The United States has a serious shortage of qualified dogs to perform the […]