Polly the Saint Bernard is both a service dog and an AKC sports champion “She's responsible for me being alive," says Polly's owner, Allison, who at one point lost her memory from Lupus complications Polly has learned to differentiate between her Service Dog work with Allison as her handler and her dog sports work with […]

September 5, 2019 The Hamilton County Commission has scheduled a public hearing for Monday, September 9, to obtain input on numerous proposed changes to the animal control code, including further regulations of hobby breeders and troublesome new definitions of “backyard breeder” and “puppy mill”. Those who reside or participate in events in Hamilton County are […]

Local/Other: Issues at the City, County, and Metropolitan Levels, and in U.S. Territories The AKC Government Relations Department is pleased to assist dog owners with canine legislation issues in their local communities, but we can't help unless we are aware of the proposal. Please contact us at (919) 816-3720 or doglaw@akc.org when new laws are discussed or […]

This summer and fall, hundreds of clubs and dog organizations around the country, along with other pet-related organizations, will host Responsible Dog Ownership Days to help educate the public in their communities about the responsibilities of dog ownership and help current owners enhance their relationships with their pets. These events consist of educational booths, action-packed […]

From Our Nation's Capitol The AKC Government Relations team continues to monitor Congress for issues of interest to dog owners. Visit our 2019 Legislation Tracking page and click on “US Fed” on the map to get the latest updates on federal bills currently being monitored by the AKCThe AKC Government Relations team continues to monitor Congress for […]

Disappointment at some point or another is inevitable in Conformation Knowing the right way to deal with setbacks is the key to success and enjoyment in the sport Be aware of your show dogs, your breeding dogs, and your relationships with other competitors. Trust your instinct and know when to end a dog's show career […]

Tuesday, August 20, 2019 The American Kennel Club’s Government Relations Department (AKC GR) has learned that the Legislation and Rules Committee of Stamford, Connecticut’s Board of Representatives is scheduled to consider an ordinance proposal tonight that seeks to limit consumer choice by requiring pet shops in the city that sell dogs and cats to source […]

Friday, August 16, 2019 Please share this information with dog owners and breeders in Fort Smith, Arkansas.  Immediate action is needed.  Responsible dog and cat breeders—and citizens of Fort Smith who wish to obtain dogs and cats from local breeders in the future—are urged to immediately contact the Fort Smith Board of Directors and ask […]

The AKC Puppy Pack tells the story of our puppies’ lives through engaging, educational and of course cute photos and videos on Instagram. This program covers the first year of 7 puppies’ lives as they attend veterinarian visits, participate in training, sports & events, and the day-to-day trials, tribulations and joys of raising a puppy. […]

August 5, 2019 The Fort Smith Board of Directors will consider an ordinance tomorrow, August 6, 2019, that seeks to establish dog and cat licensing; excessively costly dog breeder licensing fees; and new requirements, fees and penalties that impact a wide range of pet owners. The Board will also consider a resolution to approve a […]