The AKC has introduced a new policy and disciplinary measures aimed at protecting dogs and strengthening safety standards at AKC events.
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At its July 2026 meeting, the AKC Board of Directors approved a new policy and related disciplinary changes to strengthen protections for dogs at AKC events.
The health, safety, and wellbeing of dogs are at the heart of everything AKC does. In recent months, several incidents involving dogs left unattended in vehicles have resulted in dangerous situations and, in some cases, tragic outcomes. As temperatures rise and these risks increase, the Board determined that additional safeguards are necessary to help prevent future incidents and reinforce the shared responsibility of exhibitors, handlers, and owners to ensure every dog's safety.
Effective immediately, AKC's new Unattended Dogs in Vehicles Policy prohibits leaving dogs unattended in vehicles that are fully enclosed or do not have adequate ventilation and airflow. Simply having fans, air conditioning, temperature monitors, remote alerts, or other electronic devices does not, by themselves, make a vehicle safe for an unattended dog. Owners and handlers are responsible for ensuring dogs are kept in conditions that protect them from heat-related illness, distress, injury, or death.
Violating this policy is considered conduct prejudicial to the best interests of purebred dogs, the sport of purebred dogs, and the American Kennel Club and may result in disciplinary action under the AKC Charter and Bylaws.
The Board also approved two related changes to support the new policy. Effective July 29, 2026, the Dealing with Misconduct at American Kennel Club Events guidelines will require an Event Committee hearing whenever a dog is seriously injured or dies in connection with an AKC event, not just when a vehicle is involved. This process allows the committee to review sworn testimony, determine the facts, and ensure these incidents are handled fairly and consistently at events across the country.
The AKC Discipline Guidelines have also been updated to include a new disciplinary offense and penalty structure for violations of the Unattended Dogs in Vehicles Policy. Depending on the severity of the violation and the circumstances involved, penalties may range from a one-year suspension and monetary fines to a lifetime suspension and fines of up to $10,000.
These changes reinforce AKC's commitment to providing a safe environment for dogs and promoting responsible stewardship at every AKC event.
For more information on this policy contact: Compliancediv@akc.org
American Kennel Club (AKC)
