Frequently Asked Questions: AKC Unattended Dogs in Vehicles Policy

Why did the AKC adopt this new policy?

Following several recent incidents involving dogs left unattended in vehicles, including situations that resulted in serious injury and death, the AKC Board of Directors determined that stronger safeguards were necessary to help prevent future tragedies and reinforce the shared responsibility of exhibitors, handlers, and owners to protect dogs at AKC events.

What does the new Unattended Dogs in Vehicles Policy require?

Effective immediately, the policy prohibits leaving a dog unattended in a vehicle that is fully enclosed or does not have adequate ventilation and airflow.

What is considered a vehicle under this policy?

For purposes of this policy, a vehicle includes any enclosed or partially enclosed motorized conveyance used to transport dogs, including passenger cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, vans, minivans, commercial vehicles, trailers being used to house dogs, motorhomes, recreational vehicles (RVs), and similar vehicles. Regardless of the type of vehicle, owners and handlers are responsible for ensuring dogs are not left unattended in conditions that could compromise their safety or wellbeing.

Are fans, air conditioning, temperature monitors, or remote alert systems enough to comply with the policy?

These are all valuable precautions and can play an important role in helping maintain a safe environment for dogs. However, they should not be the only precautions relied upon. Fans, air conditioning, temperature monitors, remote alert systems, and other electronic devices do not, by themselves, make a vehicle safe for an unattended dog. Owners and handlers remain responsible for ensuring dogs are kept in conditions that protect them from heat-related illness, distress, injury, or death. Vehicles should be checked regularly to verify that cooling systems are functioning properly and ventilation is sufficient so that the dogs remain safe and in good condition.

Is the AKC advising that I leave my vehicle unlocked?

No. The AKC is not advising exhibitors, handlers, or owners to leave their vehicles unlocked. The policy does not prescribe how a vehicle should be secured. Rather, it requires that dogs not be left unattended in conditions that could compromise their health or wellbeing. Owners and handlers remain responsible for taking all appropriate precautions to ensure the safety of both their dogs and their vehicles.

Who is responsible for complying with the policy?

Every owner and handler is responsible for ensuring the safety and wellbeing of any dog in their care while attending any AKC event.

When does the new policy take effect?

The Unattended Dogs in Vehicles Policy is effective immediately.

What happens if someone violates the policy?

Violating the policy is considered conduct prejudicial to the best interests of purebred dogs, the sport of purebred dogs, and the American Kennel Club. Violations may result in disciplinary action under the AKC Charter and Bylaws.

What disciplinary penalties may apply?

The AKC Discipline Guidelines now include a specific offense and penalty structure for violations of the policy. Depending on the severity of the violation and the circumstances involved, penalties may range from a one-year suspension and monetary fines to a lifetime suspension and fines of up to $10,000.

Why is the AKC adopting this policy when many states already have laws regarding dogs left in vehicles?

State laws vary significantly in how they address dogs left unattended in vehicles, including when intervention is permitted and what constitutes a violation. As the governing body for dog sports, the AKC has a responsibility to establish consistent standards of conduct that apply to all participants, regardless of where an event is held. This policy establishes a clear, uniform standard for exhibitors, handlers, and owners and provides the framework for consistent enforcement through the AKC Discipline Guidelines. It is intended to complement, not replace, applicable state and local laws, and all participants are expected to comply with both.

Will previously resolved disciplinary matters be reopened under this new policy?

No.  Disciplinary matters that have already been investigated and resolved under the applicable AKC Rules, Policies, and Discipline Guidelines in effect at the time of the incident will not be reopened.

Does this policy apply only to hot weather?

No. While hot weather significantly increases the risk to dogs, the policy is based on providing safe conditions for dogs at all times. Owners and handlers are responsible for ensuring dogs are not left unattended in conditions that could compromise their health, safety, or wellbeing

What other changes did the Board approve?

The Board approved a related change to the Dealing with Misconduct at American Kennel Club Eventsguidelines. Effective July 29, 2026, an Event Committee hearing will be required whenever a dog is seriously injured or dies in connection with an AKC event, regardless of whether a vehicle is involved.

What is the purpose of requiring an Event Committee hearing?

An Event Committee hearing allows the committee to receive sworn testimony, review the facts surrounding an incident, and ensure cases are handled fairly, consistently, and in accordance with AKC rules.

What is the overall goal of these changes?

These updates strengthen the AKC’s commitment to protecting the health, safety, and wellbeing of dogs while promoting responsible stewardship and consistent enforcement at every AKC event.

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Posted by Liz on Jul 17 2026. Filed under Current Articles, Featured. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.