AKC Meet the Breed

With more than 200 registered breeds either in one of the seven Variety Groups or part of the Miscellaneous Class, the American Kennel Club is the world's largest purebred-dog registry and the governing body for the canine sport in the United States. For someone looking to add a purebred canine companion to his or her life or for the all-around purebred-dog enthusiast, this AKC-authorized fifth edition of Meet the Breeds is a complete, current, and fully illustrated resource on all AKC breeds. Meet the Breeds presents the most current AKC information, introducing readers to two new Miscellaneous breeds, the Barbet and the Kooikerhondje, and documenting the transition from the Miscellaneous Class to full recognition for six other breeds. Fanciers are sure to learn something interesting about their favorite breeds while meeting plenty of new and intriguing furry faces. Inside Meet the Breeds: Considerations for potential dog owners An introduction to each of the groups and a discussion of common traits shared by group members Listings of AKC dog breeds, including each breed's history and description, temperament, size, coat, color, life expectancy, activity level, grooming and exercise requirements, healthcare, and parent-club and rescue-group contact information. Breed profiles organized alphabetically and color-coded by group Colorful photographs of adult dogs and puppies of each breed

Meet the Golden is the American Kennel Club's first official publication on this ever-popular sporting breed, published in conjunction with the Golden Retriever Club of America. Meet the Golden presents accurate, authoritative information on all aspects of purchasing and owning the Golden Retriever, heavily illustrated with color images of well-bred puppies and beautiful adults. The book contains eleven detailed chapters devoted to the breed's history, characteristics, and the special requirements for owning this versatile, active dog that excels in countless areas of work and sport. A chapter devoted to the purchase and selection of the Golden puppy gives the reader specific guidance on how to locate a qualified breeder and to recognize a healthy, sound puppy. Individual chapters on house-training and basic obedience serve as a crash course in positive-training techniques, the AKC's recommended way of training dogs. Chapters on exercise, grooming, feeding, and healthcare present indispensable information for new dog owners.As an official publication of the AKC, Meet the Golden also explains the many vital programs offered by the country's leading canine organization to all pet dog owners, including the S.T.A.R. Puppy and the Canine Good Citizen programs. The final chapter offers owners over a dozen ways to get active with their Golden Retrievers, including the various dog sports sponsored by the AKC, from conformation showing and obedience trials to agility, hunting tests, field trials and more. A detailed resources section offers recommendations for websites, books, periodicals, and club affiliate programs, all of great interest to responsible new dog owners.

The American Kennel Club's Meet the Yorkie is the AKC's first official publication on the Yorkshire Terrier, the most popular breed in the Toy Group and one of the world's most beloved companion breeds. Produced in cooperation with the American Kennel Club and the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America, Meet the Yorkie presents accurate, authoritative information on all aspects of purchasing and owning the tiny Yorkshire Terrier. This colorful and useful owner's guide is divided into eleven chapters, which cover the breed's history, characteristics, and the requirements for owning this very special Toy dog with the floor-length blue and tan coat. All titles in the American Kennel Club's Meet the Breed series are heavily illustrated with eye-catching color images of well-bred puppies and beautiful adults, a true feast for the eyes of any Yorkie lover. A chapter devoted to the purchase and selection of the Yorkie puppy gives the reader specific guidance on how to locate a qualified breeder and to recognize a healthy, sound puppy. Individual chapters on house-training and basic obedience serve as a primer in positive training techniques, the AKC's only recommended way of training dogs. Chapters on exercise, grooming, feeding, and healthcare present indispensable information for new dog owners. As an official publication of the AKC, Meet the Yorkie also explains the many vital programs offered by the country's leading canine organization to all pet dog owners, including the S.T.A.R. Puppy and the Canine Good Citizen programs, as well as descriptions of various dog sports such as conformation showing, agility, herding, obedience and more. A detailed resources section offers recommendations for websites, books, periodicals, and club affiliate programs, all of great interest to responsible new dog owners.

Meet the Lab is the first official publication endorsed by the world's leading authority on purebred dogs, the American Kennel Club (AKC) devoted to America's most popular dog, the Labrador Retriever. As the AKC's number-one breed in registration statistics for twenty consecutive years, the Labrador Retriever reigns as America's top companion breed, though the breed's superb athleticism has led it to excel as a hunting and competition dog as well.. Eleven chapters detail the history, characteristics, and special requirements for owning this active Sporting breed, heavily illustrated with beautiful color images of puppies and adults. A chapter devoted to the purchase and selection of the Lab puppy gives the reader specific guidance on how to locate a qualified breeder and to recognize a healthy, sound puppy whether for companionship or sport, or both. Two separate chapters serve as a primer to training the puppy--house-training and obedience work, favoring positive-training techniques as the best and most successful way to educate dogs. Chapters on grooming, feeding, exercise, and home and veterinary care offer indispensable information for new dog owners. As an official publication of the AKC, produced in conjunction with the Labrador Retriever Club, Meet the Lab also explains the many vital programs offered by the AKC to all pet dog owners, including the S.T.A.R. Puppy and the Canine Good Citizen programs, as well as overview to the various dog sports in which Labs excel, including obedience, field trials, dog shows, agility, and more. A detailed resources section offers recommendations for websites, books, periodicals, and club affiliate programs, all of great interest to responsible new dog owners.

The first official publication endorsed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) to celebrate this remarkably talented and multi-faceted breed, Meet the German Shepherd is the ideal introduction for new owners. German Shepherds have served humankind in various capacities over the years, including work as a police dog, military dog, search and rescue dog, herding dog, competition dog, guard dog and companion dog. Few breeds can boast as many devoted fans at the GSD. This colorful and useful owner's guide is divided into eleven chapters, which offer authoritative and accurate information on the breed's history as a working dog, characteristics, and special requirements for owning a dog as active and intelligent as the GSD. All titles in the American Kennel Club's Meet the Breed series are heavily illustrated with beautiful color images of well-bred puppies and handsome adults, a true feast for the eyes of any lover of this breed. A chapter devoted to the purchase and selection of the GSD puppy gives the reader specific guidance on how to locate a qualified breeder and to recognize a healthy, sound puppy. Individual chapters on house-training and basic obedience serve as a crash course in positive-training techniques, the AKC's only recommended way of training dogs. Chapters on exercise, grooming, feeding, and healthcare present indispensable information for new dog owners. As an official publication of the AKC produced in conjunction with the German Shepherd Dog Club of America, Meet the German Shepherd also explains the many vital programs offered by the country's leading canine organization to all pet dog owners, including the S.T.A.R. Puppy and the Canine Good Citizen programs, as well as descriptions of various dog sports such as conformation showing, agility, herding, obedience and more. A detailed resources section offers recommendations for websites, books, periodicals, and club affiliate programs, all of great interest to responsible new dog owners.

Meet the Siberian Husky is the first official publication endorsed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) on this very popular companion breed, whose claim to fame is being history's greatest sled dog. Eleven chapters detail the history, characteristics, and special requirements for owning this native Siberian breed, heavily illustrated with beautiful color images of puppies and adults. A chapter devoted to the purchase and selection of the Siberian Husky puppy gives the reader specific guidance on how to locate a qualified breed and to recognize a healthy, sound puppy. Two separate chapters serve as a primer to training the puppy--house-training and obedience work, favoring positive-training techniques as the best and most successful way to educate dogs. Chapters on grooming, feeding, and healthcare present indispensable information for new dog owners. As an official publication of the AKC, Meet the Siberian also explains the many vital programs offered by the country's leading canine organization to all pet dog owners, including the S.T.A.R. Puppy and the Canine Good Citizen programs, as well as descriptions of various dog sports such as conformation showing, agility, obedience and more. A detailed resources section offers recommendations for websites, books, periodicals, and club affiliate programs, all of great interest to responsible new dog owners.

The American Kennel Club's Meet the Shih Tzu is the AKC's first official publication on this popular companion breed, published in conjunction with the American Shih Tzu and I-5 Press. Meet the Shih Tzu presents accurate, authoritative information on all aspects of purchasing and owning this elegant Toy breed. All titles in the American Kennel Club's Meet the Breed series are heavily illustrated with color images of well-bred puppies and beautiful adults, making the books as attractive as they are reliable. Meet the Shih Tzu contains eleven detailed chapters devoted to the breed's history, characteristics, and the special requirements for owning this active and fully coated Toy. A chapter devoted to the purchase and selection of the Shih Tzu puppy gives the reader specific guidance on how to locate a qualified breeder and to recognize a healthy, sound puppy. Individual chapters on house-training and basic obedience serve as a crash course in positive-training techniques, the AKC's only recommended way of training dogs. Chapters on exercise, grooming, feeding, and healthcare present indispensable information for new dog owners. As an official publication of the AKC, Meet the Shih Tzu also explains the many vital programs offered by the country's leading canine organization to all pet dog owners, including the S.T.A.R. Puppy and the Canine Good Citizen programs, as well as descriptions of various dog sports such as conformation showing, agility, herding, obedience and more. A detailed resources section offers recommendations for websites, books, periodicals, and club affiliate programs, all of great interest to responsible new dog owners.

The American Kennel Club's Meet the Chihuahua, an official publication of the American Kennel Club (AKC) prepared in collaboration with the Chihuahua Club of America, serves as the go-to resource for new and experienced owners of the world's tiniest dog. With his saucy personality, childlike intelligence, and perfect diminutive stature, the Chihuahua is the favorite of millions of dog lovers in America and around the world. Meet the Chihuahua begins with a discussion about who makes the right owner for such a tiny wonder as the Chihuahuas, and the parent-like responsibilities that accompany owning this long-lived canine tot. Equally important is the selection of the right breeder, a topic covered in a chapter on puppy selection that includes a list of questions to ask the breeder and the answers new owners are looking for. The book addresses the health of the Chi and alerts new owners to potential problems in the breed. The chapter on health discusses the importance of finding the right veterinarian for this breed as well as how to embark on a preventive-healthcare regimen with your vet. New owners will profit from the chapters dedicated to selecting the right merchandise for a new puppy and how to make the home and yard safe for the inquisitive Chi puppy. House-training and obedience training are presented in individual chapters, topics that all Chi owners need to consider seriously. The AKC's stance on positive training methods shines through as owners are enlightened to the power of praise and rewards. Additionally, Meet the Chihuahua offers info about grooming both coat varieties, exercise, dental health, and feeding. The final chapter presents a fun-filled chapter on participating in dog sports-from participating in AKC performance events like dog shows, obedience and agility trials to becoming certified as a therapy dog and visiting nursing homes and retirement homes with your ready-to-love Chihuahua. The chapters also offer advice on how to pursue the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy and the Canine Good Citizen programs, both ideal for young dogs getting their start in organized dog events and therapy work. The Resources section of the book includes excellent recommendations for websites, periodicals, books, and programs that owners will find informative and helpful.

The Miniature Schnauzer is the nation's most popular terrier breed, prized for his smart looks and cunning personality. His beard and mustache and his instantly recognizable outline are his calling cards. The first breed series ever authorized by the American Kennel Club in its 150+ years' history, The American Kennel Club's Meet the Breed Series serves as an excellent introduction to the nation's most popular purebred dogs. As an official publication of the AKC and vetted and endorsed by the national parent club of each breed, every book in the series describes how best to select a breed and acquire a healthy, sound puppy and offers expert advice on all aspects of care and training. Each title includes: -Characteristics of breed; choosing a puppy; supplies; house-training and obedience training; feeding; grooming; veterinary care and preventive medicine; activities and competition -Sidebars containing breed trivia facts, historical data, AKC owner advice, and chapter summaries -Index plus Resources, containing recommended books, periodicals, websites, AKC affiliates and programs.

The American Kennel Club's Meet the Bulldog an official publication of the American Kennel Club (AKC) in collaboration with the Bulldog Club of America, serves as the recommended resource for new and experienced owners of this one-of-a-kind companion dog. With his characteristic flattened muzzle, large head, and low-slung body, the unmistakable Bulldog has a limitless fan base in the United States and around the world. Illustrated with color photography throughout, Meet the Bulldog begins with a discussion about the responsibility of owning the Bulldog and its special traits and challenges. Equally important is the selection of the right breeder, a topic covered in a chapter that includes a list of questions to ask the breeder and the answers new owners are looking for. The book addresses the health of the Bulldog and alerts new owners to potential problems in the breed. The chapter on health discusses the importance of finding the right veterinarian for this breed as well as how to embark on a preventive-healthcare regimen with your vet. New owners will profit from the chapters dedicated to selecting the right merchandise for a new puppy and how to make the house and yard safe for the curious Bulldog puppy. House-training and obedience training are presented in individual chapters, and the AKC's stance on positive training methods shines through as owners are enlightened to the power of praise and rewards. The book doesn't stint on information about grooming, exercise, dental health, and feeding, all vital topics for the dog owner. The final chapter includes various ways to get your Bulldog involved in dog sports and the community-from participating in AKC dog shows to becoming certified as a therapy dog and visiting nursing homes and retirement homes with your people-loving Bulldog. The chapters also offer advice on how to pursue the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy and the Canine Good Citizen programs, both ideal for young dogs getting their start in organized dog events and therapy. The Resources section of the book includes excellent recommendations for websites, periodicals, books, and programs that owners will find informative and helpful.

The first official American Kennel Club publication dedicated to everyone's favorite little hound, Meet the Beagle celebrates this very special dog and offers owners a reliable, authoritative and entertaining handbook.

Meet the Boxer is the first official publication endorsed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) on one of the world's most beloved working and companion dogs, the Boxer. Thanks to the experts at the AKC and the American Boxer Club, this volume offers the most accurate and authoritative information available on this breed. Eleven chapters detail the history of the breed, characteristics, and special requirements for owning this versatile German breed, heavily illustrated with beautiful color images of puppies and adults. A chapter devoted to the purchase and selection of the Boxer puppy gives the reader specific guidance on how to locate a qualified breeder and to recognize a healthy, sound puppy. Two separate chapters serve as a primer to training the puppy--house-training and obedience work, favoring positive-training techniques as the best and most successful way to educate dogs. Chapters on home care, safety, feeding, and healthcare present indispensable information for new dog owners. As an official publication of the AKC, Meet the Boxer also explains the many vital programs offered by the country's leading canine organization to all pet dog owners, including the S.T.A.R. Puppy and the Canine Good Citizen programs, as well as descriptions of various dog sports such as conformation showing, agility, obedience and more. A detailed resources section offers recommendations for websites, books, periodicals, and club affiliate programs, all of great interest to responsible new dog owners.

The American Kennel Club's Meet the Rottweiler, an official publication of the American Kennel Club (AKC), serves as go-to resource for new and experienced owners of this impressive working dog. With its characteristic black and mahogany coloration, the robust Rottweiler cuts a unique silhouette and has attracted thousands of admirers in the United States and around the world. Meet the Rottweiler begins with a discussion about the decision to own this powerful, large guard dog, and the responsibilities that accompany this decision. Equally important is the selection of the right breeder, a topic covered in a chapter on puppy selection that includes a list of questions to ask the breeder and the answers new owners are looking for. The book addresses the health of the Rottweiler and alerts new owners to potential problems in the breed. The chapter on health discusses the importance of finding the right veterinarian for this breed as well as how to embark on a preventive-healthcare regimen with your vet. New owners will profit from the chapters dedicated to selecting the right merchandise for a new puppy and how to make the home and yard safe for the active and agile Rottie puppy. House-training and obedience training are presented in individual chapters, and the AKC's stance on positive training methods shines through as owners are enlightened to the power of praise and rewards. The book doesn't stint on information about grooming, exercise, dental health, and feeding, all vital topics for the dog owner. The final chapter includes a dozen ways to get your Rottweiler active in dog sports and the community-from participating in AKC performance events like dog shows, obedience and agility trials to becoming certified as a therapy dog and visiting nursing homes and retirement homes with your well-trained Rottie. The chapters also offer advice on how to pursue the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy and the Canine Good Citizen programs, both ideal for young dogs getting their start in organized dog events and therapy. The Resources section of the book includes excellent recommendations for websites, periodicals, books, and programs that Rottweiler owners will find informative and helpful.

The American Kennel Club's Meet the Bulldog an official publication of the American Kennel Club (AKC) in collaboration with the Bulldog Club of America, serves as the recommended resource for new and experienced owners of this one-of-a-kind companion dog. With his characteristic flattened muzzle, large head, and low-slung body, the unmistakable Bulldog has a limitless fan base in the United States and around the world. Illustrated with color photography throughout, Meet the Bulldog begins with a discussion about the responsibility of owning the Bulldog and its special traits and challenges. Equally important is the selection of the right breeder, a topic covered in a chapter that includes a list of questions to ask the breeder and the answers new owners are looking for. The book addresses the health of the Bulldog and alerts new owners to potential problems in the breed. The chapter on health discusses the importance of finding the right veterinarian for this breed as well as how to embark on a preventive-healthcare regimen with your vet. New owners will profit from the chapters dedicated to selecting the right merchandise for a new puppy and how to make the house and yard safe for the curious Bulldog puppy. House-training and obedience training are presented in individual chapters, and the AKC's stance on positive training methods shines through as owners are enlightened to the power of praise and rewards. The book doesn't stint on information about grooming, exercise, dental health, and feeding, all vital topics for the dog owner. The final chapter includes various ways to get your Bulldog involved in dog sports and the community-from participating in AKC dog shows to becoming certified as a therapy dog and visiting nursing homes and retirement homes with your people-loving Bulldog. The chapters also offer advice on how to pursue the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy and the Canine Good Citizen programs, both ideal for young dogs getting their start in organized dog events and therapy. The Resources section of the book includes excellent recommendations for websites, periodicals, books, and programs that owners will find informative and helpful.

Meet the Dachshund is the first official publication endorsed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) devoted to the world's favorite wiener dog! Thanks to the experts at the AKC and the Dachshund Club of America, this volume offers the most accurate and authoritative information available on this breed. Eleven chapters detail the history of the breed, characteristics, and special requirements for owning this colorful hound breed, beautifully illustrated with photos of puppies and adults. A chapter devoted to the purchase and selection of the Doxie puppy gives the reader specific guidance on how to locate a qualified breeder and to recognize a healthy, sound puppy. Two separate chapters serve as a primer to training the puppy--house-training and obedience work, favoring positive-training techniques as the best and most successful way to educate the super-smart, sometimes-stubborn Doxie. Chapters on home care, safety, feeding, and healthcare present indispensable information for new dog owners. As an official publication of the AKC, Meet the Dachshund also explains the many vital programs offered by the country's leading canine organization to all pet dog owners, including the S.T.A.R. Puppy and the Canine Good Citizen programs, as well as descriptions of various dog sports such as conformation showing, agility, obedience and more. A detailed resources section offers recommendations for websites, books, periodicals, and club affiliate programs, all of great interest to responsible new dog owners.

Meet the Golden is the American Kennel Club's first official publication on this ever-popular sporting breed, published in conjunction with the Golden Retriever Club of America. Meet the Golden presents accurate, authoritative information on all aspects of purchasing and owning the Golden Retriever, heavily illustrated with color images of well-bred puppies and beautiful adults. The book contains eleven detailed chapters devoted to the breed's history, characteristics, and the special requirements for owning this versatile, active dog that excels in countless areas of work and sport. A chapter devoted to the purchase and selection of the Golden puppy gives the reader specific guidance on how to locate a qualified breeder and to recognize a healthy, sound puppy. Individual chapters on house-training and basic obedience serve as a crash course in positive-training techniques, the AKC's recommended way of training dogs. Chapters on exercise, grooming, feeding, and healthcare present indispensable information for new dog owners.As an official publication of the AKC, Meet the Golden also explains the many vital programs offered by the country's leading canine organization to all pet dog owners, including the S.T.A.R. Puppy and the Canine Good Citizen programs. The final chapter offers owners over a dozen ways to get active with their Golden Retrievers, including the various dog sports sponsored by the AKC, from conformation showing and obedience trials to agility, hunting tests, field trials and more. A detailed resources section offers recommendations for websites, books, periodicals, and club affiliate programs, all of great interest to responsible new dog owners.

Meet the Siberian Husky is the first official publication endorsed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) on this very popular companion breed, whose claim to fame is being history's greatest sled dog. Eleven chapters detail the history, characteristics, and special requirements for owning this native Siberian breed, heavily illustrated with beautiful color images of puppies and adults. A chapter devoted to the purchase and selection of the Siberian Husky puppy gives the reader specific guidance on how to locate a qualified breed and to recognize a healthy, sound puppy. Two separate chapters serve as a primer to training the puppy--house-training and obedience work, favoring positive-training techniques as the best and most successful way to educate dogs. Chapters on grooming, feeding, and healthcare present indispensable information for new dog owners. As an official publication of the AKC, Meet the Siberian also explains the many vital programs offered by the country's leading canine organization to all pet dog owners, including the S.T.A.R. Puppy and the Canine Good Citizen programs, as well as descriptions of various dog sports such as conformation showing, agility, obedience and more. A detailed resources section offers recommendations for websites, books, periodicals, and club affiliate programs, all of great interest to responsible new dog owners.

Meet the Dachshund is the first official publication endorsed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) devoted to the world's favorite wiener dog! Thanks to the experts at the AKC and the Dachshund Club of America, this volume offers the most accurate and authoritative information available on this breed. Eleven chapters detail the history of the breed, characteristics, and special requirements for owning this colorful hound breed, beautifully illustrated with photos of puppies and adults. A chapter devoted to the purchase and selection of the Doxie puppy gives the reader specific guidance on how to locate a qualified breeder and to recognize a healthy, sound puppy. Two separate chapters serve as a primer to training the puppy--house-training and obedience work, favoring positive-training techniques as the best and most successful way to educate the super-smart, sometimes-stubborn Doxie. Chapters on home care, safety, feeding, and healthcare present indispensable information for new dog owners. As an official publication of the AKC, Meet the Dachshund also explains the many vital programs offered by the country's leading canine organization to all pet dog owners, including the S.T.A.R. Puppy and the Canine Good Citizen programs, as well as descriptions of various dog sports such as conformation showing, agility, obedience and more. A detailed resources section offers recommendations for websites, books, periodicals, and club affiliate programs, all of great interest to responsible new dog owners.

The American Kennel Club's Meet the Rottweiler, an official publication of the American Kennel Club (AKC), serves as go-to resource for new and experienced owners of this impressive working dog. With its characteristic black and mahogany coloration, the robust Rottweiler cuts a unique silhouette and has attracted thousands of admirers in the United States and around the world. Meet the Rottweiler begins with a discussion about the decision to own this powerful, large guard dog, and the responsibilities that accompany this decision. Equally important is the selection of the right breeder, a topic covered in a chapter on puppy selection that includes a list of questions to ask the breeder and the answers new owners are looking for. The book addresses the health of the Rottweiler and alerts new owners to potential problems in the breed. The chapter on health discusses the importance of finding the right veterinarian for this breed as well as how to embark on a preventive-healthcare regimen with your vet. New owners will profit from the chapters dedicated to selecting the right merchandise for a new puppy and how to make the home and yard safe for the active and agile Rottie puppy. House-training and obedience training are presented in individual chapters, and the AKC's stance on positive training methods shines through as owners are enlightened to the power of praise and rewards. The book doesn't stint on information about grooming, exercise, dental health, and feeding, all vital topics for the dog owner. The final chapter includes a dozen ways to get your Rottweiler active in dog sports and the community-from participating in AKC performance events like dog shows, obedience and agility trials to becoming certified as a therapy dog and visiting nursing homes and retirement homes with your well-trained Rottie. The chapters also offer advice on how to pursue the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy and the Canine Good Citizen programs, both ideal for young dogs getting their start in organized dog events and therapy. The Resources section of the book includes excellent recommendations for websites, periodicals, books, and programs that Rottweiler owners will find informative and helpful.

The American Kennel Club's Meet the Yorkie is the AKC's first official publication on the Yorkshire Terrier, the most popular breed in the Toy Group and one of the world's most beloved companion breeds. Produced in cooperation with the American Kennel Club and the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America, Meet the Yorkie presents accurate, authoritative information on all aspects of purchasing and owning the tiny Yorkshire Terrier. This colorful and useful owner's guide is divided into eleven chapters, which cover the breed's history, characteristics, and the requirements for owning this very special Toy dog with the floor-length blue and tan coat. All titles in the American Kennel Club's Meet the Breed series are heavily illustrated with eye-catching color images of well-bred puppies and beautiful adults, a true feast for the eyes of any Yorkie lover. A chapter devoted to the purchase and selection of the Yorkie puppy gives the reader specific guidance on how to locate a qualified breeder and to recognize a healthy, sound puppy. Individual chapters on house-training and basic obedience serve as a primer in positive training techniques, the AKC's only recommended way of training dogs. Chapters on exercise, grooming, feeding, and healthcare present indispensable information for new dog owners. As an official publication of the AKC, Meet the Yorkie also explains the many vital programs offered by the country's leading canine organization to all pet dog owners, including the S.T.A.R. Puppy and the Canine Good Citizen programs, as well as descriptions of various dog sports such as conformation showing, agility, herding, obedience and more. A detailed resources section offers recommendations for websites, books, periodicals, and club affiliate programs, all of great interest to responsible new dog owners.

The first official publication endorsed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) to celebrate this remarkably talented and multi-faceted breed, Meet the German Shepherd is the ideal introduction for new owners. German Shepherds have served humankind in various capacities over the years, including work as a police dog, military dog, search and rescue dog, herding dog, competition dog, guard dog and companion dog. Few breeds can boast as many devoted fans at the GSD. This colorful and useful owner's guide is divided into eleven chapters, which offer authoritative and accurate information on the breed's history as a working dog, characteristics, and special requirements for owning a dog as active and intelligent as the GSD. All titles in the American Kennel Club's Meet the Breed series are heavily illustrated with beautiful color images of well-bred puppies and handsome adults, a true feast for the eyes of any lover of this breed. A chapter devoted to the purchase and selection of the GSD puppy gives the reader specific guidance on how to locate a qualified breeder and to recognize a healthy, sound puppy. Individual chapters on house-training and basic obedience serve as a crash course in positive-training techniques, the AKC's only recommended way of training dogs. Chapters on exercise, grooming, feeding, and healthcare present indispensable information for new dog owners. As an official publication of the AKC produced in conjunction with the German Shepherd Dog Club of America, Meet the German Shepherd also explains the many vital programs offered by the country's leading canine organization to all pet dog owners, including the S.T.A.R. Puppy and the Canine Good Citizen programs, as well as descriptions of various dog sports such as conformation showing, agility, herding, obedience and more. A detailed resources section offers recommendations for websites, books, periodicals, and club affiliate programs, all of great interest to responsible new dog owners.

The American Kennel Club's Meet the Chihuahua, an official publication of the American Kennel Club (AKC) prepared in collaboration with the Chihuahua Club of America, serves as the go-to resource for new and experienced owners of the world's tiniest dog. With his saucy personality, childlike intelligence, and perfect diminutive stature, the Chihuahua is the favorite of millions of dog lovers in America and around the world. Meet the Chihuahua begins with a discussion about who makes the right owner for such a tiny wonder as the Chihuahuas, and the parent-like responsibilities that accompany owning this long-lived canine tot. Equally important is the selection of the right breeder, a topic covered in a chapter on puppy selection that includes a list of questions to ask the breeder and the answers new owners are looking for. The book addresses the health of the Chi and alerts new owners to potential problems in the breed. The chapter on health discusses the importance of finding the right veterinarian for this breed as well as how to embark on a preventive-healthcare regimen with your vet. New owners will profit from the chapters dedicated to selecting the right merchandise for a new puppy and how to make the home and yard safe for the inquisitive Chi puppy. House-training and obedience training are presented in individual chapters, topics that all Chi owners need to consider seriously. The AKC's stance on positive training methods shines through as owners are enlightened to the power of praise and rewards. Additionally, Meet the Chihuahua offers info about grooming both coat varieties, exercise, dental health, and feeding. The final chapter presents a fun-filled chapter on participating in dog sports-from participating in AKC performance events like dog shows, obedience and agility trials to becoming certified as a therapy dog and visiting nursing homes and retirement homes with your ready-to-love Chihuahua. The chapters also offer advice on how to pursue the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy and the Canine Good Citizen programs, both ideal for young dogs getting their start in organized dog events and therapy work. The Resources section of the book includes excellent recommendations for websites, periodicals, books, and programs that owners will find informative and helpful.

The Miniature Schnauzer is the nation's most popular terrier breed, prized for his smart looks and cunning personality. His beard and mustache and his instantly recognizable outline are his calling cards. The first breed series ever authorized by the American Kennel Club in its 150+ years' history, The American Kennel Club's Meet the Breed Series serves as an excellent introduction to the nation's most popular purebred dogs. As an official publication of the AKC and vetted and endorsed by the national parent club of each breed, every book in the series describes how best to select a breed and acquire a healthy, sound puppy and offers expert advice on all aspects of care and training. Each title includes: -Characteristics of breed; choosing a puppy; supplies; house-training and obedience training; feeding; grooming; veterinary care and preventive medicine; activities and competition -Sidebars containing breed trivia facts, historical data, AKC owner advice, and chapter summaries -Index plus Resources, containing recommended books, periodicals, websites, AKC affiliates and programs.