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 – […]

After taking a training class three years ago, now 16-year-old Skylar Sowiecki swiftly got involved with dog shows. Sowiecki resides in sunny Florida and owns German Shepherd Dogs—but can also be seen showing Borzois and occasionally Beaucerons and Greyhounds. Sowiecki and her two GSDs compete in a variety of sports including Conformation, Rally, Dock Diving, Fast […]

Shedding happens. It's a fact. You can always count on locks losing their grip when spring or early autumn rolls around and dogs shed their seasonal coats. Environmental factors like temperature, nutrition, and stress can also affect canine coat loss. But while some loose hair occurs routinely during a dog's hair growth cycles, thinning hair […]

This handsome silver-gray dog native to Scandinavia, is, by his own demeanor, an aristo­ crat among Northern dogs. The Norwegian Elkhound roamed with his Viking masters and served as a multipurpose guardian, herder, hunter, and protective companion for thousands of years before finding his way to the United States in the early 20th century. The […]

Meet Reagan Wallace: Dog Training Is the Best Part of Her Day Name: Reagan Wallace Age: 15 Grade: 9th Hometown: Saint Peters, MO Family: Parents, Traci and Britt; brother, Hayden Reagan got her start in training from her aunt, who is active in a rescue organization. Things really took off when she got her All […]

We have some big news to report about All-Americans succeeding at earning the top titles and honors in Agility, Coursing Ability, Fast CAT Rally, Obedience, Scent Work, Tracking, and Trick Dog. Many dogs are also having success in AKC’s Virtual Titling programs! AGILITY Agility Grand Champion (AGCH) Congratulations to these dogs who have earned the […]

Use the following resources as a guide to responsible dog breeding. You may also want to watch the AKC webinar on Planning Breedings: Are you ready to breed a litter of puppies? Prepare Yourself for Breeding a Litter of Puppies Breed to Improve Understand the Commitment Choose A Suitable Mate Know Your Genetics Finalize Stud […]

Stepping onto the big stage at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show will assume an entirely new meaning—and challenge—Tuesday, June 21 for Travis Torsak. Gaining the coveted initiation will be his first handling endeavor ever with Jack, a Grand Champion West Highland White Terrier he co-owns. Torsak has always hired professionals to handle his Westies […]

As part of the AKC Canine Good Citizen test, there are 10 essential skills that every dog should master. Here are the test items.

Although consistency is key when training dogs, naturally there will be training breaks that happen. Work schedules, family commitments, and vacations can all result in even the most serious dog sport competitors needing to take some time off from training or reduce the amount of time they have to train. Similarly, injuries to the dog or handler […]