New York unleashes new dog museum

Long Island dog lovers will soon have a new museum to enjoy, and it’s only a bone’s throw away.

The American Kennel Club’s Museum of the Dog is returning to New York after three decades in St. Louis. The museum first opened in the AKC’s headquarters on Madison Avenue in 1982 before relocating to St. Louis 5 years later.

Now with its new home just one block from Grand Central Terminal, the AKC is hoping to serve more than 100,000 visitors this year.

“It is exciting to bring this collection back to New York City,” said Alan Fausel, the museum’s executive director. “This museum is a beautiful ode to man’s best friend and we are thrilled to bring these pieces and exhibitions to new audiences.”

Boasting one of the largest collections of dog-themed art in the world, the museum will showcase portraits of presidential pets, ancient artifacts and fossils, and a library with over 15,000 books where readers can learn all about various breeds and their history. Visitors can also practice training a virtual puppy, or try out a photo kiosk that matches their faces with different dog breeds.

And of course, the gift shop has an extensive selection of swag, including Shih Tzu scarves and purses with pugs.

A majority of the kennel club’s considerable collection was donated by members of the canine community. While actual pups will only be there on special occasions, the exhibits will teach visitors more about the history and ancestry of dogs and breeds. The AKC currently counts 192 different breeds in its registry.

The museum will be located at 101 Park Ave. in Manhattan and opens on February 8. For more information, visit museumofthedog.org.