AKC GoodDog!^SM  Helpline

The decision to add a new puppy or dog to the family is a big one! Before you choose just any dog breed, explore what to look for so you can find the the best fit for you!

No matter how obedient a dog is, the only way to be sure yours never gets lost is to keep them leashed or inside a secure fence! Before constructing a fence of your own, learn more about which fence type is best for your pet's safety!

Dogs are social animals and while most enjoy the company of others, some dogs' personalities can clash. That's why when you introduce a new puppy to your dog already at home, be mindful that it can take time! Proper introductions between canines should not be rushed and are very important to keep the peace at home! 

It may seem like puppies and dogs don’t sleep much because when awake, since they're so alert when awake! But dogs during all life stages sleep quite a lot more than humans do and understanding their sleeping patterns and needs can make life for them, and their humans, better!

Does your dog know how to behave at a dog park? Do you? Brush up these dog park etiquette tips before you go!

Did you know your dog can earn its AKC Therapy Dog Title? Learn more about therapy dogs and see if your dog has what it takes!

Does your dog seem extra demanding of your attention now that you're working from home? Help keep the peace with your canine with these helpful tips!

Most of us, because of COVID-19, are home with our dogs more, but what happens when normalcy returns? Learn to prevent separation stress after quarantine!

There is a lot of basic training you can do indoors with your dog, but that can get boring after a while. Learn to liven it up during the COVID-19 pandemic!

Holidays are coming fast, bringing exciting opportunities for our dogs to score extra treats! Keep your dog from counter surfing so you can cook in peace!

Do you have a leaky puppy? Most puppies lose control of their bladders, at least a little when they get excited. But they usually outgrow it by the time they are adult dogs. It’s called submissive, or excitement, urination, and it isn’t a housetraining failure or training issue...

Marking is something dogs do to let other dogs know that they’ve been in a particular spot and that it’s now their spot. They may mark lots of things around the house with small amounts of urine. For dogs, this is a perfectly good way to establish ownership, but it is not something...

Dogs are not trying to dominate the world with behaviors that we humans think of as bossy. They don’t plot, hold grudges, or get angry. Your dog is simply trying to do what it takes to get what he wants – attention, food, toys, or to relieve his bladder for instance.

Before you can stop excessive barking, you’ve got to figure out why it is happening. Unusual activity can be stressful for a dog. While you may be annoyed by her barking, she is telling you that she’s not sure about everything that’s going on.

Your puppy does not mean to hurt you when he nips, but those baby teeth are sharp. But the good news is that there are ways you can play with your new pup that encourage the behavior you want while giving him a healthy outlet for his energy.

If your dog is in the habit of demanding attention when you just want to relax, you can make some changes that will keep you both happy. He does need to learn that it’s not always about him, but there should be time every day that is about him.

You’re off down the driveway, and Fido immediately starts pulling ahead.  If this sounds familiar, then it is time to read further and learn how you can help your dog be the walking partner you have always wanted.

Does your dog’s relentless tugging make it impossible to enjoy a walk? Poor leash manners are one of the most common issues that AKC GoodDog Helpline trainers are asked about. But don’t despair; there are ways you can make it better.

A good relationship with your puppy doesn’t just happen overnight, but it’s easy to build one with simple cues and positive reinforcement training!

Whether your dog is a social butterfly or an introvert, meeting new people can be challenging. Read on to see how to help your dog meet strangers!

A dog door can be a big convenience, and most dogs learn to use one quickly. But don’t expect it to mean you’ll never need to get up to let the dog out again!

Training is the best way for responsible dog owners to build relationships with their dogs, communicate with them, and give them a way to know what’s expected. All dogs don’t need to be obedience champions, but all dogs should have several basic skills!

There are a myriad of collars, harnesses, and leashes that promise to make walking the dog a walk in the park. Here is a look at how some popular styles might work for you.

Can you blame your dog for not wanting to take care of business in the rain? Some dogs aren’t fazed, but most would rather stay dry when nature calls.

One of life’s biggest milestones is bringing home a new baby and even after months of preparation it will still be a shock to your system. As you welcome a new member to your family, remember it’s a big change for your dog as well

At some point, no matter how diligent you are, your puppy or dog will have a housetraining accident. We all get distracted sometimes or fail to take them outside often enough. How should you clean it up? Is it okay for the puppy to see you clean it up? Should you scold him?

If you think agility is only for lightning-fast Border Collies, think again. This very popular sport is one that almost any dog and handler team can enjoy. Whether your goal is to compete and earn titles or simply to have fun in the back yard, it’s a fun way to bond with your dog!

Your dog may think just about any day is a good one for some digging and tunneling fun! Turn their passion for digging into a sport and try the AKC Performance Event of Earthdog.

Most dogs and puppies love toys, but some are completely uninterested in them. Learn more about which toys can peak your dogs interest!

Are you and your furry friend bored? Try out some basic trick training with you canine!

If you think agility is only for lightning-fast Border Collies, think again. This very popular sport is one that almost any dog (and handler) can enjoy.

Wouldn’t it be great if you and your dog could be together all day, every day? Your dog probably thinks so, and his chance is coming. June 21st is National Take Your Dog to Work Day. If your employer allows you to bring your dog, you’ll want to prepare...

Don’t let anybody tell you that teaching your dog tricks is a waste of time. Time spent building a special bond with your dog is never wasted. Being basically obedient - knowing sit, down, come, and stay - is certainly important but let’s be honest, kind of boring...

Why does my dog chew up our things when he has dozens of his very own wonderful toys all over the place? The question is usually about a young puppy but it could be regarding an older dog too.

Unless you live in a year-round mild climate, you and your dog can get stir-crazy during cold, snowy, or wet winter weather conditions. That's why we've compiled a list of winter activities you can do with your best friend! 

Start the new year off with a celebration and some resolutions that will make the party — and the coming year — safe for your dog!

Upcoming holiday travel season is the busiest for boarding kennels, and it isn’t too early to make plans (and reservations) for your best friend while you are away!

Summer is here, and it’s time to head for the lake, the beach, or the pool! There are so many ways to enjoy being in or on the water, and of course, this is the best time of year for them.

The holiday season is a busy and exciting time, but the things that make it special to us can make life difficult with dogs. See how you can help your dog better manage the holidays!

Summer is the time to have outdoor fun with your dog but be mindful of common dangers! From an increased exposure to ticks and other insects, to sunburn, and even heatstroke, all sorts of things can go wrong for your dog in summer. Read more about the following safety concerns to keep in mind this summer!

The Fourth of July comes with fireworks that can be scary for many pets. Fireworks are unique sounds and since they only happen a few times a year your dog may not have many chances to get accustomed to them. Pay attention to schedules of holiday fireworks displays so you can prepare your dog before the ruckus starts!

Spring forward! The second Sunday of March is the start of daylight savings time and this switch means that dogs everywhere might need some time to get used to their humans’ abrupt change of schedule!

Most canines love cool and even cold weather, and generally, it comes with fewer risks than extremely hot weather. But there are a few things you should do to keep your best four-legged friends safe and warm!