We are honored to welcome back the AKC Government Relations Department as a contest sponsor, a valued partner to dog owners, breeders, and fanciers nationwide. As the “watchman” for canine legislation, AKC GR tracks bills across the country, educates dog owners and policymakers, and advocates for laws that are fair, enforceable, and non‑discriminatory. We urge you to visit AKC GR’s website, learn more about its work, and support the department that ultimately supports all of us.
This year, their challenge theme is fittingly titled “The Watchman”—a tribute to the team that stands guard over the future of responsible dog ownership and breeding.
The challenge: Show our judges what your dog as a quiet guardian looks like—a protector who notices everything, whose posture, gaze, and presence quietly say that all is in order because they are on duty. Let your photo suggest vigilance, steadiness, and reassurance in whatever setting feels most true to your dog.
The prize: The AKC’s 23rd Edition of the New Complete Dog Book, an absolute must for any dog lover’s library;
The Sponsor: The AKC Government Relations Department
The Dreaded Small Print You Must Read To Enter
•••• This contest happens on May 1 on our Facebook page. It is open to residents of the continental United States only;
•••• One entry per person; You may enter four different photo challenges. If you enter this one, you may enter three more;
•••• When submitting your photo entry on Facebook, you must indicate the name of this contest, the AKC GR’s “The Watchman” Photo Challenge
•••• Your entry must be for the 2026 contest. Photos submitted from previous years’ contests will be disqualified, and yes, we remember photos from one year to the next;
•••• Within the photo, your image must include a purebred dog and one of the following either downloaded from the link or handmade:
The “Happy National Purebred D♥g Day” sign
The “I L♥ve My Purebred Dog” sign
Or any official National Purebred Dog Day item available here.
•••• No photoshopping, and that includes the required sign. Be creative with how you use it, but our judges, David Frei, co-host of NBC’s National Dog Show, and veteran Westminster Kennel Club photographer, Jack Grassa, must see what you actually shot with your camera;
•••• Entries without the sign will be disqualified;
•••• Many people may help you take your photo, but the prizes goes to the person submitting the winning photograph.
•••• Entering this contest implies consent that your photo may be shared on NPDD’s social media platforms, and by the AKC Government Relations Department;
•••• A full explanation of how, when, and where to submit your entry can be read here;
•••• Important! You and your dog should have safe fun when composing your entry!
•••• Judges’ decisions are final
Image by by Edijs Kalekaurs/iStock
PhotoContest2026