American Kennel Club

fruit food fig It can be hard to deny sharing a treat with your dog, especially when they sit in front of you begging for any scraps. Not every food is safe to share, but there are some fruits and vegetables that are safe for your pet to consume. While figs offer some nutritional benefits, they should only be an occasional treat and never replace a balanced diet. It’s also important to know which parts of the fig are safe, and which can be harmful before offering them to your dog.

veterinarian veterinary specialist Just like you might receive a referral to a specialist, dogs sometimes need care from a veterinary specialist who focuses on a particular field of veterinary medicine. For example, your dog may see a specialist to rule out certain medical conditions. Or they might need a specific type of treatment for a persistent or worsening issue. Unless your dog requires emergency care, the best place to start is your primary care veterinarian.

obedience canine partners all-american dog They say old dogs can learn new tricks. But what about dogs who’ve been given up on before they’re even two years old? All-American Dog ‘Willow’ was surrendered to her current owner, Ashley Carpenter of Severn, MD, at just a year old. Carpenter was her fourth owner by that point, and everyone believed she was a lost cause.

AKC Rally maltese toy breed At dog sporting events, you’ll likely see Border Collies, Poodles, and Golden Retrievers. When you see a little white dog in the ring, you might do a double take. Enter “Hayden” the Maltese and his owner Rubina Pak, who are proving that every dog can do dog sports. “There are not many Maltese competing in performance/companion events,” she says. “It’s nice to show people what a non-traditional performance breed can do.” Hayden has brought new experiences into Pak’s world.

AKC Rally conformation carolina dog village dog They say it takes a village, and that applies to dog sports too. So what happened when the traditional North American “village dog” steps foot into the AKC Rally ring? Courtney Treres of Holly, MI, and her Carolina Dog “Beauty” took the national stage at the AKC Rally National Championship to find out.

cirneco dell'etna pharaoh hound The Pharaoh Hound is a living artifact, whose sleek form is etched on the walls of Egyptian tombs and ancient pottery. These elegant sighthounds exude a quiet confidence in the show ring, with their statuesque free stack and flowing gait. But it takes tremendous skill to present a sighthound in a manner that looks effortless and natural. That’s exactly where Cameron Kerridge shines.

autotmatic feeder mealtime Have you ever considered using an automatic feeder for your dog? There are different factors that will influence if it’s right for them. Their lifestyle, age, and if they have any special dietary considerations are important considerations. The goal of automatic feeders for dogs is both convenience and peace of mind for pet owners, helping to keep mealtimes on schedule and prevent overfeeding. But they’re not for everyone.

west highland white terrier digging Don’t let those dark, beguiling eyes and that brilliant white coat lull you into a false sense of security. The West Highland White Terrier is anything but a lapdog. The Westie is a tenacious, spirited dog built for hard work. A family favorite and loyal companion, these dogs thrive in high-energy households, but can easily adapt to apartment life with adequate stimulation. Learn more about the breed with these Westie fun facts.

great pyrenees working group double-coat Bringing a dog into your life is a big choice that requires thoughtful consideration. Choosing a breed to bring home means lots of research and preparation. If you’re looking for a large, loyal, gentle companion and have prior experience with dogs, the Great Pyrenees may be worth considering. The Great Pyrenees’ Temperament These gentle giants and members of the Working Group are bred to be flock guardians.

treats training treats Does your dog only listen when you have treats in your hand? Well, you’re not alone. Many dog owners struggle to phase food out of training. This can lead to your dog only following cues in the kitchen or living room, but not in the real world. Without a reward, your dog might ignore you on walks if you don’t have your treat bag. Treats are convenient and motivating rewards when you’re teaching a new behavior.