Breeders have a lot to observe when they have a new litter: health, structure, and temperament. And Labrador Retriever breeder Debby Kay keeps close tabs on another factor she considers crucial — how the pups use their noses. Kay has been a pioneer in scent-detection work for more than 40 years. Many of her Chilbrook […]

Let’s face it. Most of our dogs could stand to cut back on the treats just a little bit, but for many of us, treats are an important part of our daily interaction with our canines. This leaves us looking for healthier alternatives to reward our dogs for their good behavior. Green beans may just […]

For a lot of Americans, salads are a popular meal option. But can dogs eat lettuce? In general, yes. Lettuce of the romaine, arugula, and iceberg varieties do not contain ingredients that can really harm your dog. After all, lettuce is 90 percent water and is also a low-calorie snack that could be a good […]

Many dogs are uncertain or sensitive about walking on ground that moves or is a texture they aren't used to, but you can help them adjust by practicing.

When Christian Stoinev was 10, he was gripped by a yearning that is common among boys of that age. “I wanted a pet, really bad,” he recalls. But Stoinev’s life was not like that of most little boys. He was a child of the circus, the youngest member of a big-top family that stretched back […]

Fanciers of English Cockers cherish the unique combination of qualities essential to this sturdy, merry, small sporting dog. A relatively new breed in the specific sense — records of the “modern” Cocker Spaniel date from about 1850, and the breed was first registered with the Kennel Club (England) in 1873— the flushing spaniel as a […]

After taking part in the fast-growing, fun, and accessible sport of dog parkour, you're not likely to look at park benches, tree stumps, or playground equipment the same way again. It's an ideal activity if attending Agility or Obedience classes isn't possible or practical. And, with a bit of imagination, any neighborhood offers boundless opportunities […]

It is truly the dog days of summer, which for Government Relations means taking a moment to consider all the work that has been done in conjunction with breeders, federations, and clubs across the country on behalf of our wonderful dogs and our sport. Currently, the majority of state legislatures are adjourned for the year […]

Breed meetups are social gatherings of owners and their dogs that are the same breed. These events can provide opportunities to meet puppy playmates and provide a fantastic training opportunity for your companion. At meetups, dog owners can also bond, connect, and share resources about groomers, vets, and other professionals who specialize in your breed. […]

As the American Kennel Club’s 200th fully recognized breed, the Bracco Italiano became the Sporting Group's latest member in 2022. Its AKC recognition was a huge milestone for the organization’s mission in the preservation of purebred dogs. After all, it's been a long time since America's oldest dog registry recognized its first breed, the Pointer, […]