Recently at a show, I chatted with an exhibitor who was new to the sport. She had done a lovely job of grooming and showing her very promising puppy, a European import. Since she seemed really determined to learn all she could about showing her breed successfully, I couldn’t resist asking why she had felt […]

Rottweilers are as loyal and loving as they are protective and confident. The working dog has been a long-loved breed that dates back to the times of the Roman Empire. And while they have played various roles over the course of history, today they make a fun-loving companion for families across the country. The breed is […]

Today the New York Senate Agriculture Committee passed a bill which will prohibit retail pet stores from selling any dogs or cats.  Instead, they would only be allowed to “showcase” animals available for adoption from a shelter, rescue, or adoption agency that has no affiliation with breeders. Senate Bill 1130 now goes to the full […]

Pet owners should know the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for elbow dysplasia in dogs. Here's what to look for in your dog.

News from the State Capitols Here are some highlights of state-level issues AKC GR is currently tracking. Alabama – House Bill 485, among other provisions, would have allowed a dog to be confiscated without court authorization if suspected of harassing, harming, or killing livestock. Minor amendments were adopted in committee, and AKC GR advocated for […]

Issues at the City, County, and Metropolitan Levels, and in US 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 […]

Want a smarter, more empathetic, possibly healthier child? It may come as no surprise that having a family dog can benefit your child’s emotional intelligence. A collection of scientific studies outlined by Nienke Endenburg and Ben Baarda in their paper The Role of Pets in Enhancing Human Well-being: Effects on Child Development, along with other […]

Competing with a senior dog can come with its fair share of concerns, from joints to weakened eyesight — but at nearly 14 years old, Radiance, a Shetland Sheepdog, is still moving well in Agility. In fact, she’ll be the oldest dog competing in the 2022 National Agility Championship (NAC) on April 1-3 in Ocala, […]

Although its precise origins are unknown, the Shih Tzu is undoubtedly descended from lion-like Tibetan holy dogs and have existed for centuries.

Update: Friday, March 25, 2022 Yesterday, the New Jersey Senate passed Senate Bill 981 without amendments.  The bill has already been assigned to the Assembly Agriculture and Food Security Committee. The American Kennel Club (AKC) remains opposed S.981 as currently worded, and continues to work to ensure that the bill’s lack of protections for co-owners […]