The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is one of the most prestigious events to occur in the dog world, with it’s competitors required to have already earned their championship title with the AKC. The event first took place in 1877, making it the second-longest sporting event in the history of the United States, only behind the Kentucky Derby. Although it’s foundation predates that of the AKC, it looks to the AKC for breeds to accept at their show. For the year 2015, two new breeds have been invited.
#1 – Coton de Tulear
The first of these magnificent breeds is the Coton de Tulear, which is aptly named for it’s soft, cotton-like coat. The Coton de Tulear originates from Madagascar and is island’s national breed. The breed was popular with the French who colonized on the island, and was first recognized formally by the French national kennel club. The name refers to the city of Tulear in Madagascar. It sports a unique coat that is said to be hair rather than fur, with little to no shedding. Because of this, it is considered one of the hypoallergenic dog breeds that are suitable for those with allergies. Although small, the Coton de Tulear is packed full of life and has excelled at activities from obedience and agility to therapy work.
#2 – Wirehaired Vizsla
The second breed the Westminster Kennel Club has added to their show is the Wirehaired Vizsla. Similar to his smooth coated counterpart, the Wirehaired Vizsla is a Hungarian hunting dog. Although the dogs share many of the same qualities, they are considered two separate breeds. The Wirehaired Vizsla is said to have been created in the 1930’s by crossing Vizslas with German Wirehaired Pointers to develop an agile hunting dog with a thicker coat to work in icy winters. Although first recognized in 1986 by the FCI, the Wirehaired Vizsla gained full recognition with the AKC in 2014. The breed is full of energy and enjoys having a job, is an excellent pointer, retriever, but is gentle-mannered enough to make a great family companion.
So this coming February when you tune in to the 2015 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, be sure to keep an eye out for these exciting new breeds. It will be great to see them competing in one of the most prestigious dog events in the world. Good luck to the new breeds and the rest of the competitors!
Cover photo by Pets Adviser via Flickr.
