Among inexperienced dog seekers, one question looms early in the process of finding that perfect puppy. Pet or show dog? This is an inquiry often asked by breeders, but you may find yourself wondering, "how should I know?" Of course, every puppy will fulfill that first category as a loyal companion. And hopefully, they'll be […]

The American Kennel Club™ (AKC), the largest purebred registry in the world and leading advocate for dogs, has presented Massachusetts Governor Charles Baker with the AKC “Top Dog” Leadership award in recognition of his advocacy for ensuring proper care and conditions at animal welfare facilities in the state. The AKC recognizes Governor Baker for his […]

AKC Government Relations (AKC GR) has learned that this morning the House Business and Industry Committee approved HB 1818 by a vote of 7-2. AKC opposes HB 1818, which would limit pet stores located in counties of more than 200,000 residents to sourcing dogs from only: (1) an animal control agency, (2) an animal shelter, […]

Here are some highlights of state-level issues AKC GR is currently tracking.  Alabama – HB 235 would authorize food service establishments to allow pet dogs in outdoor restaurant seating areas and sets out access, sanitation, and other requirements. It also specifies that emotional support animals are not service animals within the meaning of the Americans […]

Getting a dog should be a well-planned decision to ensure a lifelong commitment. Dogs are not objects that are returned if you change your mind because they have become too big, too energetic, or too time-consuming to care for properly. For the greatest chance for success, put forth the effort to find the best match […]

Animal rights groups that oppose the purposeful breeding of dogs have long sought to unfairly tarnish the reputation of responsible breeders and shut down regulated professionals by falsely claiming that breeders are cruel or negligent “puppy mills”. A common tactic of anti-breeder groups is to push for laws that prohibit pet retailers from selling purpose-bred […]

Lab lovers continue to make their voices heard! The American Kennel Club (AKC®) announced at a virtual press conference today at the AKC Museum of the Dog that the ever-popular Labrador Retriever is the nation’s favorite dog for the 30th consecutive year. While the loveable Lab holds firmly to the top spot, the French Bulldog […]

As mentioned in a previous alert, a bill has been introduced in the California Assembly that would regulate all breeders in the state. The bill has now been assigned to the Assembly Business and Professions Committee.  No hearing has been scheduled; however, it is important that the committee members hear from Californians who will be […]

News from the State Capitols Here are some highlights of state-level issues AKC GR is currently tracking. Alabama – House Bill 235 would authorize food service establishments to allow pet dogs in outdoor restaurant seating areas and sets out access, sanitation, and other requirements. It also specifies that emotional support animals are not service animals […]

What’s New from AKC Government Relations The AKC Government Relations team is off to a busy start for 2021. Currently, 47 state legislatures are in session and many dog-related bills have already been introduced. Congress has been busy with organizing with new leadership, the impeachment, COVID and budgetary issues.  So far this year, AKC GR […]