In December 2021, a Giant Schnauzer named Bayou made breed history by being the first to win the AKC National Championship. But even in the ring, Bayou’s instincts came through. The dog's handler, Alfonso Escobedo, took note of the dog's behavior. The giant canine kept his eyes on the same location in the ring, to […]

News from the State Capitols Here are some highlights of state-level issues AKC GR is currently tracking. Connecticut – Deputy Speaker Mushinsky has met with two state agencies regarding legislation for therapy dog recognition. A bill is expected to be re-drafted and re-filed for next year. Connecticut – In an October 28 Connecticut Post opinion, […]

The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) is pleased to recognize breeding programs from the Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting and Herding groups as 2021 AKC Breeder of the Year group honorees. “It is our pleasure to honor this group of esteemed breeders,” said Dennis Sprung, AKC President and CEO. “These individuals have made important contributions […]

News from the State Capitols Here are some highlights of state-level issues AKC GR is currently tracking. Connecticut – Deputy Speaker Mushinsky has met with two state agencies regarding legislation for therapy dog recognition. A bill is expected to be re-drafted and re-filed for next year. Connecticut – In an October 28 Connecticut Post opinion, […]

Dogs have a set of stiff hairs protruding from the sides of their muzzles that are popularly called “whiskers.” These are not at all like the nonfunctional whiskers that men sometimes grow on their faces. Why do dogs have whiskers? Technically, these special hairs are called vibrissae. But a better name for them is “feelers” because […]

In its endless pursuit to recognize outstanding members of the fancy, The American Kennel Club Lifetime Achievement Awards were created and first awarded in 1999 to honor our best. The purpose of the awards is to celebrate those individuals whose many years of dedication have led to significant contributions to our sport on a national […]

The AKC works with several non-AKC service and sports organizations to recognize the titles that AKC-registered dogs earn in their programs. This includes the AKC Therapy Dog titling program and the AKC Search & Rescue title program. AKC also recognizes titles of the Barn Hunt Association (BHA); North American Diving Dogs (NADD); the North American […]

Puppies are little bundles of energy, and you may have asked, "How much do puppies sleep?" In fact, they usually sleep from 18 to 20 hours a day. Sleep is essential to healthy growth, contributing to the necessary development of the central nervous system, brain, immune system, and muscles. All of that sleep also helps […]

We have some big news to report about All-Americans succeeding at earning the top titles in Agility, Coursing Ability, Rally, Obedience, Tracking and Trick Dog, including the fourth All-American Dog to earn the new AKC Agility Grand Championship, the fifth All American Dog to earn the AKC Champion Tracker title, and another CAX for the […]

Do you follow the three “R’s” of environmental responsibility: Reduce, reuse, and recycle? As a dog owner, there are lots of ways to go green. You can start with the basics, like picking up poop, and even change the way you care for your dog by choosing environmentally friendly products. You and your eco-friendly dog […]