The American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog in New York City is dedicated to the history and role of dogs in human life. It features artworks, artifacts, and educational programs. In addition to its impressive collection, the museum offers visitors the chance to train virtual dogs or even find their canine lookalike from among 192 breeds.
Interestingly, the museum was included in the Top 10 New Attractions in America by USA Today. So, if you’re a dog lover, this is a must-visit destination.
History
Founded in 1982, the museum was originally located in the New York Life Building at 51 Madison Avenue, as part of the AKC headquarters.
In 1987, it moved to a new home in Queeny Park, in western St. Louis County, Missouri.
After more than 30 years there, a decision was made to return the museum to New York — back to its original location — to reunite it with the main AKC collection and headquarters.
The museum’s collection grew thanks to donations from AKC judge Frank Sabella, Dornwald Kennels, and the legacy of activist Nancy-Carroll Draper.
Collection and Exhibits
The AKC Museum of the Dog preserves, interprets, and celebrates the role of dogs in society, while educating the public about the human–dog bond through its art and interactive displays.
The museum’s collection includes 1,700 objects and a library of 4,000 books about dogs.
Its permanent exhibition is one of the world’s largest collections of dog-related artwork, including paintings, watercolors, drawings, engravings, ceramics, and bronze sculptures. Among the highlights are:
- Deerhound and Recumbent Foxhound by Edwin Landseer,
- English Setter in a Field by Percival Rousseau,
- bronze statues by Pierre-Jules Mêne and Antoine-Louis Barye,
- dog-themed ceramics from Meissen, Rosenthal, and Royal Doulton.
Interactive Highlights
Which Dog Are You?
A camera scans the visitor’s face and matches them with the dog breed that best fits their personality, complete with breed history and temperament. Fun, surprising, and highly Instagrammable.
Digital Tables
Visitors can browse the museum archives, flip through rare books, learn about breeds, artists, and paintings, and even scroll through old dog show catalogs.
Augmented Reality Backdrop
Take photos with digital dogs of rare breeds, put a collar on a virtual pet, or step inside a historic painting scene.
Past Exhibitions
The AKC Museum of the Dog regularly hosts exhibitions exploring the role of dogs in art, history, and society. Some notable ones include:
- “Dogs of War and Peace: Wounded Warrior Dogs” — focused on dogs serving in military conflicts and supporting soldiers.
- “9/11 Remembered: Search and Rescue Dogs” — dedicated to the rescue dogs who participated in operations after the September 11 attacks.
- “Pet Gala 2024” — on May 20, 2024, the museum hosted its first-ever Pet Gala, where dogs wore designer outfits inspired by celebrity looks, created by Anthony Rubio.
Visitor Information
Admission: $15
Website: www.museumofthedog.org
Address: 101 Park Ave, New York, NY 10178
