The Dog People’s Manifesto
The manifesto calls on the incoming government to reshape laws surrounding dog welfare, encourage responsible breeding, and support owners in best caring for their pet.
The wide-ranging 8-point plan highlights the key issues facing owners and their pets, and details the legislative changes and alternative measures which need to be taken to better dog welfare; this includes advocating for more education and behavioural change to bring about improvements.
Access for owners and dogs
As the keeper of one of the largest Public Spaces Protection Order databases in the country, we monitor and respond to proposals that seek to restrict access for dogs.
Animal cruelty
Animal cruelty is an abhorrent offence which subjects animals to unnecessary pain and suffering. We support every effort to stamp out cruelty in order to defend dog welfare and protect dogs across the world.
Animal testing
We are strongly opposed to the use of dogs in animal experiments primarily conducted for the benefit of humans and we have significant concerns about the use of dogs in regulatory toxicity testing.
#BePuppywise
If you're thinking of buying a new puppy you need to #Bepuppywise and choose the right puppy and breeder, and ensure you provide all the care that a new puppy needs.
Brachycephalic breeds
Learn what brachycephalic and BOAS mean and read more about the valuable work we are doing to help improve the health of these increasingly popular breeds.
Breeding regulations
We engage with policymakers to advocate for better enforcement of breeding regulations, and for measures which enable puppy buyers to identify responsible breeders.
Cattle safety
As cattle are increasingly grazed on public land, it is becoming more difficult for dog owners to avoid conflict with cattle which could result in death or injury when walking in the countryside.
Christmas
A range of festive resources to get you through December - from teaching your dog something new, to keeping the kids busy, our tips will keep both you and your dog happy this holiday season.
Compulsory microchipping
Keeping your details up to date on microchipping databases is a legal requirement and helps to reunite lost pets with their owners.
Compulsory scanning
Compulsory scanning has become an increasingly prominent animal welfare issue, with many raising their concerns about when pets should have their microchips scanned.
Coronavirus (COVID-19)
During this period of uncertainty for us all, the Royal Kennel Club is here for you and your dog. Find useful information to keep your dog safe during the pandemic.
Cost of living
Dog owners across the UK are being affected by the cost of living crisis. Find some useful resources that could help you.
Dangerous dogs
Breed-specific legislation ignores the role that anti-social behaviour by irresponsible dog owners plays in biting incidents.
Dog meat trade
We are opposed to the sale and consumption of dog meat, and believe that the trade must be outlawed to protect animal welfare.
Dog thefts
Over 2,000 dogs are stolen each year across the UK. With less than 5% of cases resulting in conviction, we believe penalties need to be harsher.
Dogs die in hot cars
You should never leave your dog in a parked car on a warm day. Cars can heat up rapidly and cause dogs to become dehydrated, develop heatstroke or die.
Dogs in rented accommodation
No-pet clauses on tenancy agreements unnecessarily punish responsible pet owners in rented accommodation.
Dog walking and wildlife
Dog walkers account for half of all visits to the UK’s outdoors, with many passionate about walking their pets in a safe and responsible way.
Ear cropping
Ear cropping is a barbaric practice that involves cutting puppies’ ears at a very young age to change their appearance, often by simply cutting pieces of the ears off. Find out more about ear cropping and our view.
Electric shock collars
Electric shock collars are cruel training devices that cause unnecessary pain and suffering to dogs. We support a total ban on their use and sale. Find out more about legislation and our views on the issue.
Livestock attacks
Livestock attacks under UK law covers attacking or chasing livestock. Legally, a dog must be on a lead or otherwise under close control in a field or enclosure in which there are sheep. The issue of dogs attacking livestock has a substantial impact on farmers.
National Microchipping Month
National Microchipping Month takes place in June. Run by the RKC and Petlog, it raises awareness of the importance of keeping your details correct and up to date. Read more about the importance of microchipping.
Open for dogs
We have launched our 'Open for Dogs' campaign, which encourages businesses, workplaces and other public places to welcome our dogs. Read all of our advice and helpful information top tips to ease your four-legged friend back into establishments.
Partners and collaborators in health
We work with breed health co-ordinators, working groups and partners in a variety of ways.
Paw-by-paw
To help you head out and about with your dog, we've brought together the key information to help you enjoy the great outdoors with your four-legged friend, whether it's in the countryside, along the beach or in public parks.
Puppy imports
Importing puppies raises concerns about animal welfare and exploitation, including transporting conditions, puppy farming and smuggling.
Regulation of fireworks
With around 40% of the UK's dogs being scared of, or having anxieties related to fireworks, owners often need to plan ahead to keep their dog calm ahead of Bonfire Night.
The Dog People’s Manifesto
The manifesto calls on the incoming Government to reshape laws surrounding dog welfare, encourage responsible breeding and support owners in best caring for their pet.
Third party sales
Commercial third party sales (such as pet shops or puppy dealers) are banned across Great Britain. After years of campaigning, we are incredibly pleased to welcome this progress.
Walking on MOD land
We're supporting the MOD’s #RespectTheRange campaign to help educate dog owners about how they can safely access land where our armed forces are practicing live-fire training.
Why does my dog?
Ever wondered why your dog does certain things? We’ve got answers to some of the most frequently searched for questions asking ‘Why does my dog...?'
Why does my puppy?
Have you ever found yourself wondering, "Why does my puppy do that?" Understanding these behaviours can help you navigate the delightful and sometimes puzzling world of puppy.
XL Bully Guidance
Stay informed about the guidelines for XL Bully owners. Regularly check the Government official webpages for the latest updates on this legislation.