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![Australian Shepherd being trained by a dog trainer outdoors.](https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn-origin-etr.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/14154017/Australian-Shepherd-being-trained-by-a-dog-trainer-outdoors-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Puppy Training
Finding the Best Dog Training Class for Your Dog or Puppy
Choose a dog training class or facility carefully for your dog or puppy since it's a big decision. Here's what to consider before enrolling your dog.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/find-dog-training-class/
| September 1, 2021
![](https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn-origin-etr.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/29160336/Chinese-Shar-Pei-puppy-being-hugged-by-a-vet-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Health
When to Seek a Second Opinion from a Veterinary Specialist
At what point do you consider asking your veterinarian for a second opinion, a specialist, or if there are other channels you can pursue?
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/vet-seek-second-opinion/
| October 11, 2021
![](https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn-origin-etr.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/13122953/Cavalier-King-Charles-Spaniels-in-harnesses-on-leads-meeting-each-other-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Puppy Health
When Can My Puppy Meet Other Dogs?
Early socialization is important. But it's also important to keep your puppy safe. Here's when to have your puppy meet other dogs.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/can-puppy-meet-dogs/
| October 11, 2021
![rhodesian ridgeback hound puppy in a bed](https://www.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Rhodesian-Ridgeback-puppy-laying-in-a-bundle-of-blankets-looking-back-over-its-shoulder-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Puppy Information
How Long Can You Leave a Puppy Alone?
You can leave a puppy alone for small amounts of time as they grow and mature, but it takes patience and training for them to learn how and be comfortable.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/puppy-information/leave-puppy-alone/
| August 4, 2021
![](https://www.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Great-Pyrenees-getting-pet-by-a-woman-in-a-pasture-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Health
Lumps and Bumps on Dog’s Skin: Signs, Symptoms, Causes
While skin bumps and strange lumps should always be taken seriously, certain types of bumps are more common than you might think.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-skin-lumps-bumps/
| September 15, 2021
Legislative Alerts
NH: Hearing on January 16 – Oppose Restrictions on Certain Breeders, Pet Sales
On Tuesday, January 16, 2024, the New Hampshire (NH) House Environment and Agriculture Committee will hear public testimony on HB 1680, which seeks to restrict newly-defined “retail pet stores” to include anyone with a physical facility who transfers more than 30 dogs per year at retail. Residents and New Hampshire breeders are strongly encouraged to […]
https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/nh-hearing-january-16-oppose-restrictions-certain-breeders-pet-sales/
| January 9, 2024
![Flat Coated Retriever puppies playing outdoors.](https://www.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Flat-Coated-Retriever-puppies-playing-outdoors-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Lifestyle
How to Set Up a Puppy Playdate
Socialization is an important part of puppyhood. Learn advice and tips for setting up a puppy playdate with dogs outside your household.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/how-to-host-a-puppy-playdate/
| May 26, 2021
Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
Should You Choose a Purebred or a Mixed-Breed Dog?
Selecting a dog is an important decision that plays out for families every day. Here's how to know if you should get a purebred or mixed-breed dog.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/why-you-should-choose-a-purebred-instead-of-a-mix-breed-dog/
| January 5, 2016
![Irish Red and White Setter laying in the grass with a stuffed toy.](https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn-origin-etr.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/14150423/Irish-Red-and-White-Setter-laying-in-the-grass-with-a-stuffed-toy-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Vet's Corner
What Is the Best Age to Neuter or Spay Your Dog?
Often, the spay and neuter take place at a very young age for pets. However, studies have shown that this may not be the best age.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/vets-corner/neutering-spaying-right-age-dog/
| December 14, 2021
![Lancashire Heeler head portrait outdoors.](https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn-origin-etr.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/04093125/Lancashire-Heeler-head-portrait-outdoors-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Dog Breeds
Meet the Lancashire Heeler, AKC’s Newest Recognized Dog Breed
The American Kennel Club's newly recognized breed, the Lancashire Heeler, is the 201st recognized breed, part of the Herding Group.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/lancashire-heeler-newest-akc-recognized-breed/
| January 3, 2024