AKC Title Recognition Awards The AKC now works with several non-AKC service and sports organizations to recognize the titles that AKC-registered dogs earn in their programs. This includes the AKC Therapy Dog titling program and the AKC Search & Rescue title program. AKC also recognizes titles of the Barn Hunt Association (BHA); North American Diving […]

When it comes to toys, treats, and general necessities for your canine companion, it's easy for pet owners to go overboard. But National Splurge Day on June 18 presents the perfect opportunity to spend some money on yourself! Scroll down for products you won't be able to say no to if you're a dog lover. […]

Showing dogs is a fun sport where the thrill of competition is combined with the joy of seeing beautiful dogs. Dog shows, or conformation events, originated as a way for breeders to evaluate their breeding stock. While the purpose remains, dog shows are a great opportunity to socialize with people in your breed and develop […]

Traditional Dog Sports Conformation Obedience Tracking Herding Earthdog Coursing   The Middle Ages Canine Good Citizen Agility S.T.A.R. Puppy Rally   Expanding AKC's Reach Coursing Ability Test (CAT) AKC Therapy Dog 4-6 Month Puppy Class Search and Rescue NOHS FSS Open Shows Barn Hunt Dock Diving Fast CAT Farm Dog Certified Agility ACT Class Trick […]

The Labrador Retriever may have just been named the most popular dog breed in the United States for the 27th year in a row, but overseas, this high-spirited companion doesn’t carry the same kind of clout. According to new research, Europe’s most popular dog breeds are the Cane Corso and the Rottweiler. However, these rankings, […]

Education is paramount to the AKC’s mission. Through education, we preserve history, stay relevant to the needs of today’s dog owners and fanciers, and invest in the future health and well-being of dogs, dog sports, and the human-canine relationship. The AKC recognizes and appreciates the enormous contributions that Parent and All-Breed Clubs give to the […]

As a pet owner, your dog’s safety starts with you. Although canines are extremely smart animals, they take their cues from their owners and rely on them to meet most of their needs, including keeping them calm during times of crisis. “Dogs are deeply sensitive to human emotions, especially in their particular guardians,” says Sally […]

Most dogs love spending time outside, and backyards provide a space for their favorite activities, like playtime and training sessions — not to mention the joys of fresh air, sunshine, and rolling around in the grass. But can dogs get all the exercise they need in the yard? Dogs Need More Than a Yard for […]

If given a choice, would your dog always choose to hang out with you over someone else? Research suggests it depends on where we are when we offer them the choice. A recent study, published in Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior, gave dogs the option of getting petted by their owner or by […]

Meghan Hamlin of Braintree, Vt., asks: My Border Collie, Molly, was attacked by another dog on her walk earlier this week. Thankfully, she's not badly hurt and is being treated by the vet, but we are worried about the effect this could have on her. Is there anything we can do to help her get […]