Dog Lifestyle, Pets and Family

The All American Dog Explained

The All-American Dog is a breed recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) that is not based on specific breed standards. Instead, it is a mixed breed dog that is the result of breeding two or more different breeds. The AKC introduced the Canine Partners Program that recognized the All-American Dog in 2009 to provide recognition for mixed breed dogs and to allow them to compete in events.

Mixed bred dog that is greying and brown and white.

What is an All-American Dog?

For many an All-American Dog simply refers to a mixed breed dog. However, the AKC caused some slight confusion around this when they created the Canine Partners Program. To this day, there is no specific category of “AKC All-American dog” recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). The AKC is still only an organization that registers and recognizes purebred dogs based on breed standards.

While the AKC does not have a specific category for All-American dogs, the Canine Partners Program allows mixed-breed dogs, commonly referred to as mutts or mixed breeds, to participate in certain AKC events and activities such as obedience, agility, and rally trials. The AKC Canine Partners program was introduced in the year 2009.

It was created to allow mixed-breed dogs and purebred dogs that are ineligible for AKC registration to participate in various AKC events and activities. The program was designed to promote and celebrate all dogs, regardless of pedigree, and provide them with opportunities to compete and showcase their talents. However, it’s important to note that the AKC does not officially recognize mixed-breeds as specific breeds.

If you are specifically looking for a dog with AKC recognition, you would need to consider one of the many purebred breeds that are officially recognized by the AKC. These breeds have well-defined breed standards, histories, and pedigrees. The AKC recognizes and categorizes breeds into various groups such as Sporting, Working, Terrier, Herding, Toy, Non-Sporting, Hound, and Miscellaneous. These breeds have specific standards for appearance, temperament, and other characteristics.

However, if you’re interested in adopting a mixed-breed dog or a mutt, there are numerous rescue organizations and shelters where you can find wonderful and loving pets that may exhibit the characteristics of an All-American dog. These dogs may not have the official recognition of a specific breed, but they can still make fantastic companions.

A woman animal rescue volunteer holding a small white and brown puppy up in one arm while wearing an orange t-shirt and a mask.
Ruth Anne Decker of Lawrence, Kansas, with one of many puppies she helped transport in 2022 with Best Friends Animal Society’s “No Paws on the Ground” program.

History of All-American Dogs

All-American Dogs have been around for centuries. They were originally bred for their working abilities, such as hunting, herding, and guarding. However, the popularity of purebred dogs increased in the 20th century, and mixed breed dogs were often looked down upon.

The term “All-American dog” is a colloquial phrase used to describe mixed-breed dogs or mutts that are typically found in the United States. It is not derived from any official organization or specific historical event.

The term likely emerged from the idea that mixed-breed dogs in America often have diverse and varied backgrounds, representing a blend of different breeds and heritage. They are often considered a symbol of the diverse and multicultural nature of the United States, hence the term “All-American.”

Does an All-American Dog Mean Mutt?

Yes, the term “All-American dog” is often used interchangeably with the term “mutt” “mixed breed” or other references (some not very positive) to refer to mixed-breed dogs. It is a colloquial expression used to describe dogs that have a combination of different breeds in their genetic makeup. These dogs do not have a specific pedigree or recognized breed lineage. They are typically the result of mating between dogs of different breeds or mixed-breed dogs themselves.

The term “All-American dog” highlights the diversity and uniqueness of these mixed-breed dogs, emphasizing their status as a blend of various breeds rather than belonging to a specific breed category. It celebrates the individuality and charm of these dogs without conforming to any breed standards.

The use of the term “All-American dog” emphasizes the unique qualities and individuality of mixed-breed dogs, celebrating their diverse genetic makeup and often unpredictable but lovable traits. It’s a way to recognize and appreciate the charm and versatility of these dogs without adhering to specific breed standards.

Three most expensive mixed breed dogs the Labradoodle, Goldendoodle and the Bernadoodle.
Even those that are considered among the most expensive mixed breed dogs the Labradoodle, Goldendoodle and the Bernadoodle are technically All American Dogs.

The AKC All-American Dog

Overview of AKC All-American Dog

There is not an AKC All-American Dog, the All-American Dog is a mixed breed dog that is now able to register with the AKC as part of a program that allows mixed breed dogs to participate in events and get certain benefits offered to other AKC members like pet health insurance. It is important to note that the AKC does not recognize the All American Dog as a breed or as part of its breed registry program since the All American Dog is not a purebred dog, but rather a combination of multiple breeds.

The AKC recognized All-American Dog and and permitted participation in the Canine Partner Program to recognize the unique qualities and contributions of mixed breed dogs to the canine community.

The All-American Dog Breed is known for its versatility, intelligence, and loyalty. These dogs are often used as service animals, therapy dogs, and search and rescue dogs due to their exceptional abilities and temperament.

Requirements for AKC All-American Dog Canine Partners Program

To be eligible for registration as an AKC All-American Dog Breed, the dog must be spayed or neutered and have no known pedigree and not be a wolf hybrid. The application requires you to identify two primary breeds in your dog.

AKC Events All American Dogs Can Participate In

One of the main benefits of owning an AKC All-American Dog Breed is that these dogs are recognized by the AKC, which provides access to a variety of resources and events. This includes obedience and agility competitions, as well as training and socialization classes.

When you enroll your dog, you’ll gain access to a wide range of activities you can take part in together, including most AKC recognized titles and dog sports:

Agility
AKC Rally
AKC Scent Work
AKC FAST CAT
Obedience
Tracking
Coursing Ability Test

Small brown and white Staffordshire terrier looking into the camera
Ace, a rescue Staffordshire terrier cross is the newest member of The Popular Pets family and an All American Dog

Conclusion

In conclusion, the All-American Dog is a mixed breed dog and while not recognized as an official breed by the AKC, the All-American Dog can still participate in non AKC and AKC and dog sporting events after it registers in the Canine Partners Program and of course is still a beloved and popular choice among dog owners.

One of the primary advantages of the All-American Dog is its diverse genetic makeup, which can result in unique and individualized characteristics. All-American Dogs will be found in a variety of sizes, colors, and temperaments, making it a great fit for families of all types.

Additionally, the All-American Dog is typically healthy and has a long lifespan, which can be attributed to its mixed genetic heritage. However, it is important to note that like all dogs, the All-American Dog can be prone to certain health issues, especially as they age, so regular vet check-ups are crucial.

Overall, the All-American Dog is a wonderful breed that can bring joy and companionship to any household. Whether you are looking for a loyal companion, a family pet, or a working dog, the All-American Dog can fit the bill.

All American Dog FAQs

What breed is an All American Dog?

An All American Dog is not any particular breed but rather a mixed breed dog of two or more breeds. All American Dogs are thought to be resilient and intelligent due to their genetic diversity. This is contrasted to dogs that are breed and whose genetics arose in the U.S. which include several include American Staffordshire’s and more.

What does the AKC consider an All American Dog?

The AKC does not recognize All American Dogs as a particular breeds rather any dog that us more than one breed and registers for the Canine Partners Program can participate in certain sporting events. Essentially, an All American Dog is a mixed breed dog.

Can mixed dogs be AKC?

Technically the AKC only recognizes purebreds for part of the breed registry program, however, the AKC does permit mixed breed dogs or All American Dogs to participate in the Canine Partners Program which allows them to participate in AKC events but not as part of the brand registry.

Learn more about other interesting dog breeds from around the world like 5 Amazing Livestock Guardian Dogs and their jobs and the Dachshund and this famous one of Baseball player Aaron Judge and the adorable Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen along with the most expensive dogs in the world and a full explanation of the Boonie Dog