We all know that museums are bastions of culture. They contain collections from historical periods, celebrate heritage, educate on people, places, and things, and sometimes inspire. Depending on the type of museum you visit, you’re in for an experience unlike any other.

Such is the case with the Museum of the Dog that is set to open in New York City. Sponsored by the American Kennel Club, the museum that celebrates dogs will be in the same building as the AKC’s headquarters. It will feature more than 150 pieces of dog-related artwork, one of the largest collections in the world.

The exhibits will include sculptures, paintings, and interactive digital displays for visitors to enjoy. It will open its Manhattan doors to the public on February 8, 2019. For the past 30 years, the museum’s home was in St. Louis, Missouri. The AKC wanted to expand the museum’s reach and decided to relocate it back to New York.

First opened in 1982 in New York, the museum was located on Madison Avenue before being transferred to Missouri in 1987. Its new location on Park Avenue continues to preserve the art and history of canines.

Dog lovers will be amazed. Not only will guests be able to see doggie art, but they will also have access to the AKC’s extensive library collection. There is also a museum gift shop and if you sign up for a membership, you’ll be invited to exclusive events.

If you adore pooches, you will love the “Find Your Match” tool that snaps your photo and pairs it with an AKC breed of the same likeness. According to a press release, “there is a ‘Meet the Breeds’ touchscreen table that allows visitors to explore breeds’ features, traits, history and representations in the collection.”

Bring the kids along and connect them to the museum’s app where they’ll be guided by a virtual doggie guide throughout their tour. They’ve thought of everything for this place!

As exciting as this is, you may be surprised to learn that there are other dog museums throughout the world. In Germany, you’ll find one that is dedicated to Dachshunds and features over 4,000 pieces of wares.

A trip to Martigny in Switzerland will be worth it if you’re a fan of Saint Bernards because Barryland is all about the famed hero dogs. It is an attraction where visitors can learn about the history of the breed, play games, or hang out with them in the museum’s kennel. Here in the states, Tennessee is home to a bird dog museum.

What may be confusing to some is Museum of the Dog and Museum of Dog, which are two different ventures. While the AKC museum is the subject of this piece, it should be noted that Museum of Dog is a mobile dog museum based out of Massachusetts.

If you want to make this a stop while in New York, learn more by visiting AKC’s museumofthedog.org or by watching this video.

Will you make a trip to this dog museum? Which exhibits interest you the most? Have you ever been to a museum dedicated to dogs or any other animal?