The Boston Terrier is a small but sturdy American breed. Also known as the “American Gentleman” for his tuxedo coat and polite demeanor, this intelligent dog was bred to be a companion. In 1870, in Boston, William O’Brien sold a dog (imported from England), who was a cross between a white English Terrier and a […]

Carole Lee Richards got her first Weimaraner in 1978. She was just looking for a pet at the time, but her interest in the breed quickly grew, and eventually she bred her first litter and was competing in dog shows. Since then she has bred many champions, become an AKC judge, and handled Weimaraners in […]

Overview Pugs are: Even-tempered, charming, mischievous, loving, and adaptable; The largest breed in the AKC Toy Group—portable but sturdy; Originally from Asia, though long associated with The Netherlands; A very popular pet the world over; Easy to groom, but—despite its short coat— a dog that sheds. Pugs love: Kids; Adults who are still kids at […]

Each of the AKC registered breeds are assigned to one of seven groups representing characteristics and functions the breeds were originally bred for. Current as of June 1, 2023 [accordion] [accordion_panel title="Herding Group"] HERDING GROUP The Herding Group, created in 1983, is the newest AKC classification; its members were formerly members of the Working Group. […]

The Ulster County Legislature is considering a proposal that would regulate hobby breeders in the county and could vote as early as tomorrow (Tuesday, August 18).  County residents are urged to contact the legislature immediately and urge them to not allow this proposal to pass as it is currently written.  Type in your address on […]

A recent experience ringside watching a novice reminded me that while conditioning is not necessarily part of the breed standard, good condition is crucial to winning. In this case, the judge withheld ribbons, and rightfully so, on a decidedly overweight dog. The response of the handler was “But why? She fits the standard.” Here is […]

AKC Gazette breed column: Giant Schnauzers — The proposed AKC rule change to include an obedience path without group stays will provide an option for owners and handlers who are concerned about group-stay safety. Hopefully this is a question we will be able to ask ourselves when competing in AKC obedience. The creation of another […]

Adrienne McLean of Richardson, TX, is the owner, handler and trainer of one of the most agility titled dogs in the AKC Canine Partners program -- MACH5 James Albert McLean also known as "Jimmy." Jimmy has qualified for the AKC Agility Invitational as one of the top five All-Americans in the country and also qualified […]

By Joan Harrigan and Susan BeegelMuch is demanded of show dogs – they must be adaptable, calm, and tolerant in addition to meeting the requirements of their breed standards. Two Beaucerons, both champions and exhibited at the 2011 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, have show careers that are secondary to their day-to-day work. For Beaucerons […]

ASK AKC  Dear AKC: I have a German Shepherd Dog and a Pomeranian. I walk both dogs at the same time but I wonder how much is too much of a long walk for the Pomeranian. The German Shepherd Dog seems unfazed by the time and length of the walk. My Pomeranian seems OK, but she […]