( abbr the AKC )
a US organization that holds the official records relating to dog breeding in the US, proving that individual dogs are of a pure breed. It was established in 1884 and has more than 5 000 local clubs which organize about 13 000 dog shows each year. The AKC also encourages responsible dog ownership and has a service to find lost dogs and a Canine Health Foundation for research to improve the health of dogs.
Compare Kennel Club .