For years Subaru has taken a novel approach in its TV ads: targeting dog owners. The auto maker launched its “Dog tested. Dog approved.” spots in 2010. The campaign was immensely successful at linking Subaru vehicles to the joys of dog ownership, especially among upscale young families that are Subaru’s dream demographic. “The idea was […]

Dachshunds are bound to pop up anywhere, doing anything. But who has time to keep track of all those Dachsie doings? As a public service, AKC Dog Lovers goes around the corner and around the world to bring you (cue deep-voiced announcer with lots of reverb) DACHSHUNDS IN THE NEWS! Pancevo, Serbia—The Associated Press reported that the […]

In an effort to honor the thousands of therapy dog teams that make a difference in the lives of others daily, the AKC has added four new titles to its popular AKC Therapy DogTM program. In addition to the AKC Therapy Dog (ThD) title (awarded after 50 visits), the AKC now offers: AKC Therapy Dog Novice (ThDN) […]

As the name implies, breed-specific legislation (BSL, for short) is any legislative attempt to ban or place severe restrictions on owners of a particular breed of dog or dogs with certain physical characteristics, regardless of whether or not their particular dog is a problem in their community. Like racial profiling for dogs, BSL summarily penalizes […]

Dogs have served with U.S. soldiers for over 100 years but weren’t officially inducted into the U.S. army until 1942.  Many breeds have served in the United States Military as well as in the search and rescue efforts following the tragic events of 9/11.  Purebred dogs are frequently employed due to their predictability surrounding intelligence, […]

We all know that exercising is good for humans and dogs, but so much of it is so repetitive and boring that it becomes a chore. It doesn’t have to be that way. Here some alternatives to help you and your four-footed pal reach your fitness goals. Follow the Bouncing Paws Trampolines are not just […]

Long before smushface" and "wigglebutt" became the ubiquitous dog monikers, these seven breeds were given nicknames crafted specifically for them.  the Clown Prince of Dogs At various times devotees of at least a dozen different breeds have claimed this title for their dogs. But to our knowledge only one group of fanciers has incorporated canine clowning […]

Dogs that can be considered of medium size can be found in most of the AKC’s seven groups. Whether it’s the energetic Shetland Sheepdog, the sporty spaniels, or the laid back Bulldog, there is a range of temperament and appearance within this size category. When considering getting a dog, size is a factor, but only […]

Big dogs equal big love and loyalty. Here are the large dog breeds that earn their place at the top of the size chart. Most people will know the Great Dane but what about the lovely Leonberger? When considering getting a dog, size is a factor, but only one of them. The dog’s personality, activity […]

Finding your first family dog is a daunting process—one that's up there with dating and house-hunting. And like parenting, when it comes to raising a dog to be perfectly well-behaved, successful, and sociable, well, let's just say practice makes perfect. But, these breeds, while they appeal to different interests, are easily trained and friendly (especially with children), […]