American Kennel Club

American Kennel Club (AKC), nonprofit organization devoted to the advancement and welfare of purebred dogs. The AKC, founded in 1884, is affiliated with about 5,000 clubs, including over 500 member clubs, throughout the United States. It recognizes breeds (150 currently), registers individual purebred dogs upon application, establishes rules for dog shows and dog trials, and generally promotes responsible dog ownership and interest in pedigreed dogs.

At its New York City headquarters, the AKC maintains one of the world's most complete reference libraries on dogs, and issues several publications, among them the monthly magazine Pure-Bred Dogs/American Kennel Gazette.

Reviewed by: American Kennel Club