AKC Government Relations tracked more than 25 state and local measures in 2015 that addressed the issue of tethering. This is a significant increase over the recent past. While AKC does not have a specific policy position statement on this issue, AKC Government Relations has weighed in on several measures that would have impacted dog […]

AKC Government Relations saw an increased number of bills in 2015 that allow inspections and enforcement of dog breeders by groups or organizations that have little or no experience or expertise in dog breeding. Such measures often give shelters and local humane societies or a designee of their choice the ability to write and/or enforce […]

A major push for extreme anti-breeder groups seen in dozens of communities throughout the country is for local bills to ban the sale of pets at retail pet stores in that community and require pet stores to sell only “shelter or rescue pets.” On the face of it, this sounds like something that AKC and […]

A major push for extreme anti-breeder groups seen in dozens of communities throughout the country is for local bills to ban the sale of pets at retail pet stores in that community and require pet stores to sell only “shelter or rescue pets.” On the face of it, this sounds like something that AKC and […]

AKC Government Relations saw an increased number of bills in 2015 that allow inspections and enforcement of dog breeders by groups or organizations that have little or no experience or expertise in dog breeding. Such measures often give shelters and local humane societies or a designee of their choice the ability to write and/or enforce […]

The American Kennel Club announces the full recognition of two breeds, the American Hairless Terrier and the Sloughi, raising the total number of AKC dog breeds to 189. “We’re excited to welcome these two unique breeds into the AKC family,” AKC Vice President Gina DiNardo said. “Both breeds make wonderful companions for the right family. If […]

RATCHX Rex Von McKinney Rausch BCAT CGC owned by Jeanette Rausch of Mount Juliet, TN Eight-year-old Rex was once a stud dog at a kennel that was shut down by the authorities. “I stumbled across his photo online and fell in love with him so I reached out to the organization to arrange meeting him […]

A new law was signed this week in New York that allows domestic violence victims to bring their service or therapy dogs with them to an emergency shelter.  The AKC was proud to support this important legislation. Victims of domestic violence are in a vulnerable and frightening situation, and the practical assistance and comfort that a […]

Are you considering getting an Irish Wolfhound puppy? If so, it’s certainly understandable. These sweet-tempered creatures have beguiled us since ancient times. Originally bred as fearless big-game hunters capable of dispatching a wolf in single combat, Wolfhounds today are the most serene and agreeable of companions for owners of all ages. But, with big dogs […]

CT Griffin Fielding, owned by Maureen Fielding of Canada, has also earned the championship title in AKC Tracking. AKC opened tracking events to dogs in the AKC Canine Partners program on Jan. 1, 2014. Charlene found now 13-year-old Maddie in the streets of Arlington, TX, 12 years ago.  The vet estimated her to be about […]