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The American Kennel Club (AKC) has officially added the Bracco Italiano, a fascinating and elegant breed, to its registry. Known for its athleticism and ancient hunting heritage, the Bracco Italiano joins the AKC Sporting Group. This Italian breed is celebrated for its exceptional sense of smell, gentle nature, and versatile hunting abilities. With droopy ears and a muscular build, the Bracco Italiano combines classic good looks with a calm temperament. It’s an excellent companion for active families and hunting enthusiasts who appreciate its unique blend of beauty and talent.
Belgian Laekenois
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The Belgian Laekenois is the latest addition to the AKC’s Herding Group. A close relative of the Belgian Malinois, Tervuren, and Sheepdog, this breed stands out with its distinctive curly, rough coat. Originally bred as a herding and guard dog, the Laekenois is alert, hardworking, and protective. With its intelligence and strong bond with family, this breed thrives with experienced dog owners who appreciate its herding heritage and energy. The Belgian Laekenois’ adaptability and loyalty make it an impressive addition to any family with an active lifestyle.
Dogo Argentino
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With its sleek, all-white coat and powerful build, the Dogo Argentino joins the AKC Working Group. Developed in Argentina, this muscular breed was originally bred for hunting big game. Known for its courage, loyalty, and protective instincts, the Dogo Argentino makes an excellent family companion when properly trained and socialized. This breed’s impressive strength and dedication to loved ones make it an ideal fit for experienced dog owners looking for a capable, devoted guardian.
Barbet
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The Barbet is a friendly, curly-coated water dog from France, now part of the AKC Sporting Group. This breed was traditionally used for waterfowl hunting thanks to its strong swimming abilities and water-resistant coat. Barbets are gentle, affectionate, and love being with their families, making them great pets for active households. They thrive on activities that engage their minds and bodies, excelling in agility and obedience. The Barbet’s hypoallergenic coat is an added bonus for allergy sufferers, making this sociable breed a versatile companion.
Azawakh
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The Azawakh, a sleek and graceful sighthound from West Africa, is a recent addition to the AKC Hound Group. Known for its long legs and athletic build, the Azawakh was historically used for hunting game in the Sahara. These dogs are fast and independent, forming close bonds with their families while maintaining a reserved demeanor with strangers. Azawakhs require regular exercise and are ideal for active owners who appreciate their dignified elegance and ancient heritage.
Nederlandse Kooikerhondje
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The Nederlandse Kooikerhondje, often called the Kooiker, is a Dutch breed recognized in the AKC Sporting Group. This breed was originally used for duck hunting, and its distinctive red-and-white coat and feathered ears make it a standout. Kooikers are intelligent, spirited, and loyal, making them wonderful family companions for active households. They excel in dog sports such as agility and obedience, and their friendly yet independent nature ensures they’ll capture the hearts of those who love versatile and athletic breeds.
Russian Toy
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The Russian Toy, one of the smallest dog breeds, is now part of the AKC Toy Group. Known for its delicate, elegant build and playful personality, the Russian Toy comes in smooth and long-coated varieties. This breed is highly affectionate with its family but can be wary of strangers. Perfect for apartment living, the Russian Toy requires minimal space but plenty of love and engagement. With its big eyes and adorable expressions, the Russian Toy is a charming addition for those who love small dogs with big personalities.
Mudi
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The Mudi is a versatile Hungarian herding breed joining the AKC Herding Group. Recognizable by its curly coat and sharp intelligence, the Mudi was originally bred to herd sheep and cattle. This breed is highly trainable and excels in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding trials. Mudis are energetic and loyal and form strong bonds with their families, but they require mental and physical stimulation to be content. Their keen intelligence and work ethic make them an excellent choice for dedicated and active dog owners.
Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen
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The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen (GBGV) is a scent hound from France, joining the AKC Hound Group. Known for its long, low body and scruffy coat, this breed is playful, friendly, and great with children. Originally bred for hunting small game, the GBGV has a keen sense of smell and an independent streak. They enjoy exploring and thrive in environments that offer regular exercise and engagement. The GBGV’s joyful nature and social disposition make it popular for families who enjoy active outdoor adventures.
Biewer Terrier
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The Biewer Terrier, a small, affectionate breed developed from Yorkshire Terriers, is a new addition to the AKC Toy Group. With its tri-colored coat and lively personality, the Biewer Terrier is perfect for those seeking a small dog with a big heart. This breed is hypoallergenic and makes a wonderful companion for people with allergies. Biewer Terriers are playful, sociable, and love being the center of attention, making them a delightful choice for families or individuals looking for a cheerful lap dog.
Bergamasco Sheepdog
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The Bergamasco Sheepdog is a unique and ancient herding breed known for its distinctive matted coat, which forms into natural flocks. This coat protected harsh weather conditions, making the Bergamasco well-suited to herding tasks. Known for their intelligence, patience, and independence, Bergamascos are gentle and loyal companions who bond closely with their families. Despite their imposing appearance, they’re calm and even-tempered, making them an excellent addition for those who appreciate a breed with both brains and beauty.
Cirneco dell’Etna
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The Cirneco dell’Etna, a slender, agile sighthound from Sicily, joins the AKC Hound Group. Originally used to hunt rabbits on the rugged slopes of Mount Etna, this breed is known for its independence and keen sense of sight. Cirnecos are affectionate with their families but reserved with strangers. They’re intelligent, curious, and require plenty of exercise, making them a good fit for active owners who appreciate a breed with an ancient history and unique appearance.
Pyrenean Mastiff
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The Pyrenean Mastiff, a gentle giant from Spain, is now part of the AKC Working Group. Known for its calm and protective nature, this breed was originally used for guarding livestock. Pyrenean Mastiffs are gentle with children despite their large size and make excellent family protectors. They’re loyal and intelligent and require consistent training and socialization to become well-mannered companions. Their thick double coat requires routine grooming, but their steady temperament and loving nature make them valuable to any family.
Teddy Roosevelt Terrier
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Named after the 26th President of the United States, the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is a feisty, compact breed that joins the AKC Terrier Group. Bred to hunt rats and other pests, these terriers are intelligent, courageous, and energetic. Despite their small size, they have a big personality and are incredibly loyal to their families. Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are also known for their playful and affectionate nature, making them great companions for active households. With consistent training and plenty of playtime, they’re a joy to have around.
Spanish Water Dog
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The Spanish Water Dog is a versatile breed known for its curly, wooly coat and high energy levels. Originally bred for herding and retrieving in Spain, this breed excels in water sports and agility competitions. Spanish Water Dogs are loyal and form strong bonds with their families, but they also require regular mental and physical stimulation to stay happy. Their hypoallergenic coat is a plus for allergy sufferers, though it does require specific grooming. These dogs thrive in active homes where they can show off their intelligence and athleticism.
Perro de Presa Canario
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The Perro de Presa Canario, or Canary Mastiff, is a large, muscular breed with a history of guarding livestock in the Canary Islands. Known for their confident and imposing demeanor, Presa Canarios are also incredibly loyal and loving with their families. This breed requires an experienced owner who can provide consistent training and early socialization. With the right guidance, they are protective and gentle companions. Their strength and intelligence make them ideal for families looking for a powerful yet devoted guardian.
Peruvian Inca Orchid
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The Peruvian Inca Orchid is a unique and elegant breed in hairless and coated varieties. With its striking appearance and ancient heritage, this dog has been cherished in Peru for centuries. Peruvian Inca Orchids are affectionate and loyal to their families but can be reserved with strangers. The hairless variety requires extra care to protect its skin from the sun, while the coated variety has a silky, low-maintenance coat. Both types are agile and athletic and thrive in environments with plenty of love and activity.
American Hairless Terrier
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As its name suggests, the American Hairless Terrier is one of the few hairless dog breeds and is perfect for allergy sufferers. Developed in the United States, these terriers are lively, intelligent, and energetic. They’re playful and love engaging in activities with their families, making them wonderful companions for active homes. Although they require special care to protect their sensitive skin, they are loyal and affectionate dogs that are always up for an adventure. Their inquisitive nature and problem-solving skills make them a fun and engaging breed to have around.
Lagotto Romagnolo
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The Lagotto Romagnolo, also known as the Italian truffle dog, is an intelligent and affectionate breed with a dense, curly coat. Bred for truffle hunting in Italy, this dog has a keen sense of smell and a love of exploring. Lagottos are highly trainable and excel in various dog sports, including agility and obedience. They’re also known for their friendly and loyal nature, making them fantastic family pets. Their hypoallergenic coat is a plus for allergy sufferers, though it does require regular grooming. This breed is perfect for those who enjoy an active, outdoor lifestyle.
Karelian Bear Dog
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The Karelian Bear Dog is a fearless and independent breed from Finland, originally developed for hunting large game like bears and moose. Known for their bravery and strong prey drive, Karelians require experienced owners who understand their needs. Despite their hunting background, they are deeply loyal and protective of their families. These dogs thrive in active homes with plenty of space to roam and regular physical and mental stimulation opportunities. With proper training and socialization, the Karelian Bear Dog is a devoted and reliable companion.
Portuguese Podengo
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The Portuguese Podengo is a lively and versatile breed that comes in three sizes: small, medium, and large. Each size has its own unique characteristics, but all Podengos share a keen sense of smell and sight, originally used for hunting rabbits and wild boar in Portugal. They have smooth or wire coats and a spirited, energetic personality. These dogs are highly adaptable and do well in both rural and urban environments as long as they get plenty of exercise. The Portuguese Podengo’s intelligence and independence make it a fun and engaging companion for adventurous owners.
Finnish Lapphund
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The Finnish Lapphund, a breed developed in the Arctic regions of Finland, was originally used by the Sami people for herding reindeer. This fluffy, double-coated dog is friendly, intelligent, and incredibly agile. Finnish Lapphunds are known for their excellent herding instincts and strong work ethic, but they also have a soft, gentle side that makes them wonderful companions. They are great with children and other animals, and their adaptable nature allows them to thrive in various living environments. Their expressive eyes and signature “Lappie smile” melt hearts, making them popular for families seeking an affectionate and loyal companion.
Basset Fauve de Bretagne
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The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a small, energetic scent hound with a wiry coat and a big personality. Originating from Brittany, France, this breed was used for hunting small game, and they retain a strong prey drive and an excellent sense of smell. Basset Fauves are friendly, sociable, and great with children, making them delightful family pets. They have a stubborn streak, so consistent training is important. Their rough coat is low-maintenance and easy to care for. These energetic dogs love to explore, making them perfect for active families who enjoy outdoor adventures.
Appenzeller Sennenhund
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The Appenzeller Sennenhund is one of the four Swiss mountain dog breeds known for its tricolor coat and incredible versatility. Originally bred for herding and guarding livestock in the Swiss Alps, this breed is agile, strong, and energetic. Appenzellers are highly intelligent and thrive on having a job to do, whether it’s herding, agility sports, or search and rescue work. They are loyal and protective of their families, making them excellent watchdogs. However, their high energy levels and need for mental stimulation mean they do best in active households with plenty of space to run and play.
Catahoula Leopard Dog
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The Catahoula Leopard Dog, Louisiana’s state dog, is a striking breed known for its distinctive coat patterns and bright blue eyes. Bred for herding and hunting in the swampy terrain of the American South, Catahoulas are strong, agile, and incredibly versatile. They are independent thinkers and require consistent training and socialization. Despite their working dog background, they form strong bonds with their families and are deeply loyal. Catahoulas thrive in active homes where they can put their energy to good use. Their intelligence and athleticism make them excellent companions for experienced dog owners who enjoy outdoor activities.
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
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The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a small but sturdy breed with a distinctive topknot of hair on its head and a long, low-slung body. Named after a Sir Walter Scott novel character, this Scottish terrier is charming, intelligent, and brave. Dandies are known for their affectionate and loyal nature, forming close bonds with their families. They are excellent watchdogs with a much bigger bark than their size suggests. Dandies enjoy both playtime and cuddles, making them versatile companions. They are well-suited for families looking for a unique, low-maintenance terrier with a big heart.
The AKC Dog Party That Never Ends
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With each new breed, the AKC brings us closer to the incredible diversity of the canine world. From the majestic Bracco Italiano to the playful Biewer Terrier, every breed offers something special for dog lovers to treasure. Whether you’re drawn to the hardworking Mudi, the elegant Azawakh, or the protective Pyrenean Mastiff, there’s a dog suited to every lifestyle and personality. These new additions highlight dogs’ unique roles in human history, showcasing their loyalty, versatility, and love. Embracing these breeds means celebrating the beauty of dogs in all their forms.
Toledo, United States.
