New dog census will guide research and support new initiatives.
The UK’s largest organisation devoted to dog health and welfare has today (25 November) relaunched as The Royal Kennel Club (RKC).
The rebrand follows the honour of being granted the Royal prefix by His Majesty The King in 2023, and will be marked with a special “21-dog salute” outside Windsor Castle.
In a significant shift, the RKC is expanding its focus from pedigree dogs to all dogs across the UK. Central to this is the launch of the UK’s largest-ever Dog Census, a landmark project designed to shape the future of dog health and ownership.
The Census will collect invaluable data on dog health, behaviour, lifestyle, and wellbeing, guiding scientific research and supporting new initiatives.
Alongside the Census, the RKC has announced a new, digital platform to support dog owners through a range of products and services, set to launch in February 2026.
Jannine Edgar, CEO of The Royal Kennel Club, says: “This is a landmark moment for dogs in the UK. Becoming The Royal Kennel Club is not just an honour, it’s a responsibility to uphold standards not just of dogs but for dogs.
“We are opening our doors wider than ever before, inviting every dog owner to be part of a movement that puts canine health, happiness, and inclusion at its heart. The Dog Census, the evolution of Crufts, and our expanded health programmes are just the beginning. Every dog matters, and together, we can shape a better future for them all.”
She added: “The granting of the Royal prefix, and the 21-dog salute tribute, reflects the deep and enduring bond between dogs and people, including generations of Royalty; a relationship The Kennel Club has proudly championed for 150 years and is excited to continue for generations of dogs to come.”
Image (C) Shutterstock/Daria Shvetcova.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
