Here are some highlights of state-level issues AKC GR is currently tracking. Visit the 2018 Legislation Tracking page and click on your state to get the latest updates on state bills monitored by the AKC. Alabama – HB 277/SB 232 would establish the procedure by which a dog can be declared dangerous and would require the euthanization […]

Humans have fed their dogs some pretty strange things over the years. From cabbage to hardtack, our canine companions ate items we had on hand, even if they weren’t particularly nutritious. Now, as more and more people are investing in their personal health by moving to fresh diets, it’s no surprise that they’re looking for […]

You might have noticed your older dog slowing down in recent years. Maybe he is playing less and sleeping more. Although this might seem normal for an aging canine, arthritis could be to blame. What Is Arthritis? There are several different types of arthritis that can affect dogs, but the most common is osteoarthritis — […]

From giving unconditional love to greeting us like rock stars when we get home, dogs bring an overwhelming amount of happiness into our lives. Here ere are some ways you can show your canine companion just how much you appreciate him. Provide Appropriate Exercise Exercise isn’t just good for your dog’s physical health, it boosts […]

On a microscopic level, your dog’s body is an ecosystem of tiny organisms, such as bacteria and fungi. These minute creatures, or microbes, may seem gross, but many of them are essential for good health. This is particularly true in your dog’s digestive system. For example, the microbiota (community of microbes) in the gut aids […]

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 introduced […]

News from the State Capitols Here are some highlights of state-level issues AKC GR is currently tracking. Visit the 2018 Legislation Tracking page and click on your state to get the latest updates on state bills monitored by the AKC. California – Assembly Bill 1762 would allow visitors to all California state parks to bring animals when […]

For better or worse, in sickness and in health, it’s a pet owner’s responsibility to provide the love and care needed throughout her dog’s lifetime. Nobody wants to imagine her canine companion falling ill, but it’s a good idea to prepare for the unexpected. “Owners do not want to plan for a sick dog, but […]

Sandra C. asked what to do about her young Australian Shepherd that likes to nip at her and sometimes bites hard enough to draw blood. AKC GoodDog! Helpline Trainer Paisley Lunchick offers up some advice. Biting is a normal part of being a dog and serves a variety of functions. Some breeds, such as the […]

The first time I learned about chicken camp, I couldn't believe what I was hearing. Train a what? Yes, train a chicken. I was intrigued. How could using clicker training for poultry possibly improve my dog-training skills? After all, isn’t a dog smarter than a chicken? Well, the point is not to win first place […]