New York, NY- The American Kennel Club (AKC®), a not-for-profit organization that is the world’s largest registry of purebred and mixed-breed dogs, and a leading voice for canine welfare and responsible ownership, is pleased to announce that nominations for the President’s Sportsman Award are now open, and will be accepted through Monday, August 17, 2026.
Now in its second year, the award honors an individual who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to the principles outlined in the AKC Code of Sportsmanship and Civility. It seeks to recognize those whose conduct consistently reflects integrity, mentorship, and respect within the dog sports community.
“We received an overwhelming response to the inaugural award, and we look forward to receiving another round of stellar nominations,” said Gina M. DiNardo, AKC President and CEO. “We are very fortunate that there are so many individuals who are welcoming to newcomers, mentor others, and elevate the culture of the dog sports community both in and out of the ring.”
An independent selection committee will name one adult and one junior recipient. Honorees will be invited to attend the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin, held in Orlando, Florida this December, where the awards will be formally conferred.
To nominate an adult, please click HERE. To submit a nomination for a junior, please click HERE.
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About the American Kennel Club
Founded in 1884, the American Kennel Club is a not-for-profit organization which maintains the largest registry of purebred dogs in the world and oversees the sport of dogs in the United States. The AKC is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function. Along with its more than 4,900 licensed and member clubs and its affiliated organizations, the AKC advocates for the purebred dog as a family companion, advances canine health and well-being, works to protect the rights of all dog owners and promotes responsible dog ownership. More than 28,000 competitions for AKC-registered purebred and mixed breed dogs are held under AKC rules and regulations each year including conformation, agility, obedience, rally, tracking, herding, lure coursing, coonhound events, scent work, hunt tests, field and earthdog tests.
Affiliate AKC organizations include the AKC Humane Fund, AKC Canine Health Foundation, AKC Reunite, the AKC Museum of the Dog, and the AKC Purebred Preservation Bank. For more information, visit www.akc.org.
AKC, American Kennel Club, the American Kennel Club seal and design, and all associated marks and logos are trademarks, registered trademarks and service marks of The American Kennel Club, Inc.
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