While many in the fancy focused on federal legislation pertaining to canine welfare last year, a threat to our rights and privileges as dog lovers has been gaining momentum at an alarming rate across the country - breed-specific legislation. In 2005, the AKC tracked 106 breed-specific measures. This year, through March alone, 55 measures have […]

This year as we gear up for the fourth annual AKC ® Responsible Dog Ownership Day (AKC RDO Day) I am pleased to report about some new opportunities for clubs, state federations, and pet-related organizations as they plan their AKC RDO Day events in communities across the country. Publicly promoting responsible dog ownership takes time, initiative and […]

The American Kennel Club offers a variety of educational resources promoting responsible dog ownership. Whether you are a long-time breeder or just getting started in the sport we encourage you to take advantage of our informational offerings. For a comprehensive educational experience, try one of the AKC/Canine Health Foundation Breeders Symposiums. Last month in Branson, […]

The American Kennel Club has been advocating for purebred dog owners since our founding in 1884. Yet in 1990 we stepped up our efforts in the political arena with the formation of the Canine Legislation department. Now the time has come again for AKC to further enhance our role in protecting owners' and breeders' rights. […]

Every September, we take to our local communities with the rallying cry of responsible dog ownership and host over 600 RDO Day events across the country. Together with our participating clubs, we educate the public about everything we can offer them to put them on the path to being the best dog owners they can […]

Monday, February 29, 2016 On Thursday, March 3, 2016, committees of the New Jersey Legislature will consider several dog-related bills.  New Jersey residents are strongly encouraged to take action on the bills, as noted below. Senate Economic Growth Committee The New Jersey Senate Economic Growth Committee is scheduled to consider three bills dealing with dogs […]

The Senate Criminal Justice Committee has approved a new substitute version of HB 1451, and this bill is headed to the floor for a vote of the full Senate. It was placed on the intent calendar late today and is eligible to be voted on ANYTIME NOW! It is imperative that Senators hear from their […]

The El Paso City Council will hold a public hearing Tuesday August 10th to discuss possible changes to the animal control code including differential license fees, breeder licensing and inspections, and a ban on sales of cats and dogs in pet stores. It is vital that responsible dog owners, breeders and fanciers oppose this legislation. […]

Heat stroke is extremely dangerous and can be deadly to dogs. Dr. Jerry Klein, the American Kennel Club Chief Veterinary Officer, shares how you can keep your dog protected this summer.

AKC tracking events are the competition form of canine search and rescue. These Tracking events provide experience for dogs and their handlers to meet some needs for tracking and finding lost humans or other animals, as well as, demonstrating the extremely high level of scent capability that dogs possess. We've all seen movies with dogs […]