This week, the Ohio Department of Agriculture finalized rules regarding high volume dog breeders, dog brokers, and pet stores.  The American Kennel Club’s Government Relations Department (AKC GR) published and distributed information about the proposed rule changes in March 2022. Summaries of the finalized rule changes are provided for readers’ convenience; however, impacted entities are […]

Last week, a bill was filed in the New Jersey Assembly that seeks to regulate “residential kennels”.  Assembly Bill 4920 would define residential kennel as a “residential property owned or rented by a person on or at which the person keeps, houses, or otherwise possesses 15 to 25 dogs.”  It would impose numerous requirements on […]

News from the State Capitols Here are some highlights of state-level issues AKC GR is currently tracking. Connecticut – Established in Public Act No. 22-54, the Department of Agriculture has convened a workgroup to explore a state-wide dog license portal.  In addition to the Conference of Municipalities, the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Association and the Town […]

AKC Government Relations continues to monitor Congress for issues of interest to dog owners. Visit our 2022 Legislation Tracking map and click on “Federal Bills” on the map to get the latest updates on federal bills currently being monitored by the AKC. Highlights of issues we are currently addressing on the federal level include: U.S. Congress – H.R. 2840/S. […]

After the airing of the popular special AKC Heroes: 2022 Awards for Canine Excellence on ESPN2, the AKC is excited to share the winners of this year’s AKC Humane Fund Awards for Canine Excellence (ACE). These annual awards celebrate loyal, hard-working dogs that have significantly improved the lives of their owners and/or communities. Five remarkable dogs […]

Imagine you are 19 years old, your apartment has been destroyed by Russian bombs, and you have left your family and friends behind in Kharkiv, Ukraine. Now, nine months later you find yourself in the bright lights at The National Dog Show in Oaks, Pennsylvania, with an affable 3½-year-old Chesapeake Bay Retriever named Quentin beside […]

For many people, grapefruit is a favorite fruit, a juicy addition to salads and other dishes. Full of antioxidants, grapefruit also has a unique, tangy flavor. If you're eating grapefruits, you might wonder if dogs can have grapefruit. Can Dogs Have Grapefruit? Like oranges, dogs can generally eat small amounts of grapefruit without issues. But […]

The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry is proposing new rules regarding the seizure and impoundment of animals kept by commercial pet breeders and animal shelters in cases where the animals’ health, safety, or welfare is endangered or believed to be in imminent danger.  The American Kennel Club (AKC) is concerned that the proposal […]

In humans, studies have demonstrated that a genetic component can influence whether you like or dislike this herb. But would a dog enjoy the same treat? Cilantro leaves are safe for dogs to eat in moderation. Can Dogs Have Cilantro? Although eating this herb does not replace brushing teeth and professional dental cleanings, cilantro can […]

Tofu is a complete vegan protein made from soybeans. It can also take on the flavor of different ingredients, making it an ideal addition to a variety of dishes for people. But can dogs have tofu? Can Dogs Eat Tofu? Dr. Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinary Officer for the AKC, advises that "tofu can be given […]