Unveiling the Latest Canine Companions: 18 Newly Recognized Dog Breeds by AKC

In the dynamic world of canine companionship, the American Kennel Club (AKC) has recently embraced 18 new breeds into its prestigious registry. From ancient hunting hounds to modern farm guardians, these diverse breeds bring unique traits and histories to the table. Join us as we introduce you to these fascinating additions, each with its distinctive characteristics and charm.

Unveiling the Latest Canine Companions: 18 Newly Recognized Dog Breeds by AKC

18 Newly Recognized Dog Breeds by AKC

• 1 Bracco Italiano: The Italian Pointing Dog

1. Height: 21–27 inches
2. Weight: 55–90 pounds
3. Temperament: Enthusiastic, intelligent, affectionate

The Bracco Italiano, added to the AKC Sporting Group in 2022, boasts a rich history as one of the oldest pointing breeds. Renowned for its gentle temperament and hunting prowess, this versatile breed has finally found its place in American homes.

• 2 Mudi: The Loyal Herder

2. Height: 15–18.5 inches
3. Weight: 18–29 pounds
4. Temperament: Intelligent, active, loyal

Pronounced “moody,” the Mudi joined the AKC Herding Group in 2022. Despite its rarity, this small to medium-sized dog from the 1800s is cherished for its loyalty and courage, excelling as an excellent farm companion.

• 3 Russian Toy: The Elegant Companion

3. Height: 8–11 inches
4. Weight: Up to 6.5 pounds
5. Temperament: Charming, smart, loyal

A petite addition to the AKC Toy Group, the Russian Toy’s aristocratic roots date back to Russian nobility. Despite its size, this charming breed possesses a big personality and has become a favorite among those who appreciate its good-natured temperament.

• 4 Barbet Dog: The Waterfowl Hunter

4. Height: 20 – 25 inches
5. Weight: 35 – 60 pounds
6. Temperament: Intelligent, sensitive, obedient

With a history dating to the 16th century, the Barbet, meaning “beard” in French, is an artistic depiction come to life. Recognized in 2020, its distinctive, Poodle-like coat and waterfowl hunting skills make it a rare but valuable breed.

• 5 Azawakh Dog: Graceful African Hunter

5. Height: 23.5 – 29 inches
6. Weight: 33 – 55 pounds
7. Temperament: Loyal, affectionate, athletic

Originating from West Africa, the Azawakh is a tall and slender hound bred for hunting. With an air of elegance, this ancient breed joined the AKC in 2019, capturing hearts with its loyalty and athletic prowess.

• 6 Dogo Argentino: Muscular Game Hunter

6. Height: 24 – 27 inches
7. Weight: 88 – 100 pounds
8. Temperament: Affectionate, loyal, active

Developed in Argentina for large game hunting, the Dogo Argentino entered the AKC registry in 2020. With a strong will and protective nature, this muscular breed is a loyal family guardian, albeit not recommended for novice owners.

• 7 American Hairless Terrier Dog: Energetic Rodent Hunter

7. Height: 12-16 inches
8. Weight: 12-16 pounds
9. Temperament: Inquisitive, spunky, active

Despite its name, the American Hairless Terrier comes in both coated and hairless varieties. Recognized in 2016, these intelligent and energetic dogs trace their lineage to skilled rodent hunters.

• 8 Nederlandse Kooikerhondje Dog: The Duck Decoy Maestro

8. Height: 12-14 inches
9. Weight: 20-24 pounds
10. Temperament: Cheerful, friendly, well-behaved

Originating in the Netherlands as a duck decoy dog, the Nederlandse Kooikerhondje has charmed its way into the AKC’s heart since 2018. With a plumed tail and a knack for duck luring, these cheerful dogs are gaining popularity.

• 9 Pumi Dog: The Agile Hungarian Herder

9. Height: 15 – 18.5 inches
10. Weight: 22 – 29 pounds
11. Temperament: Energetic, intelligent, confident

Hailing from Hungary, the Pumi joined the AKC in 2016. These curly-coated herders, with origins reaching back to 1815, balance their lapdog appearance with a hardworking, agile, and energetic work ethic.

10. Sloughi Dog: Swift North African Hunter

10. Height: 24 – 29 inches
11. Weight: 40 – 65 pounds
12. Temperament: Intelligent, sensitive, athletic

Revered in Morocco for centuries, the Sloughi is a North African hound registered in 2016. Known for its speed, intelligence, and endurance, this sensitive breed demands gentle training and unwavering devotion.

11. Bergamasco Sheepdog: Hardy Alpine Herder

11. Height: 22 – 23.5 inches
12. Weight: 57 – 84 pounds
13. Temperament: Patient, calm, intelligent

Originating in the Italian Alps, the Bergamasco is a patient herding dog with a unique, corded coat. Ideal for harsh climates, these non-aggressive dogs make excellent working animals, guards, and family companions.

12. Berger Picard Dog: Resilient French Herder

12. Height: 21 – 26 inches
13. Weight: 50 – 70 pounds
14. Temperament: Loyal, intelligent, easy to train

Originating in Picardy, France, the Berger Picard nearly faced extinction but was revived. Recognized in 2015, these energetic herders, with roots dating to the 9th century, embody loyalty and intelligence.

13. Boerboel Dog: Robust South African Guardian

13. Height: 23 – 28 inches
14. Weight: 150 – 200 pounds
15. Temperament: Intimidating, intelligent, confident

Revered in South Africa, the Boerboel is a Mastiff-type breed protecting homesteads since its Dutch origins. Despite their intimidating size, these “Velcro dogs” are loyal and protective, fetching prices up to $8,000.

14. Lagotto Romagnolo Dog: Truffle-Hunting Italian

14. Height: 16 -19 inches
15. Weight: 24-35 pounds
16. Temperament: Loving, intelligent, easy to train

Originating in Italy as a water retriever, the Lagotto Romagnolo, recognized in 2015, now excels in truffle hunting. With a lineage dating to the 1400s, these affectionate dogs boast thick, dense coats and exceptional noses.

15. Cirneco dell’Etna Dog:

• Height: 16 – 20 inches
• Weight: 16 – 30 pounds

Cirneco dell’Etna Dog Originating from Sicily, these sleek Italian hunting dogs were crafted to chase rabbits and small game. With a height ranging from 16 to 20 inches and a weight of 16 to 30 pounds, these energetic canines are not only agile but also prove to be easy to train, making them ideal family companions.

16. Miniature American Shepherd:

• Height: 13 – 18 inches
• Weight: 20 – 40 pounds

Hailing from the U.S., this miniature herding dog mirrors the Australian Shepherd in a smaller form. Originally known as Miniature Australian Shepherds, these clever and loyal companions stand at 13 to 18 inches and weigh between 20 to 40 pounds. Despite their Californian origins in the 1960s, they gained AKC recognition only in 2015.

17. Spanish Water Dog:

• Height: 15 – 20 inches
• Weight: 30 – 50 pounds

With curly coats and a height of 15 to 20 inches, these Spanish herding and guard dogs exhibit intelligence and devotion to family. Versatile in their roles, they share genetic links with water retrievers, showcasing both agility and loyalty.

18. Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen Dog:

• Height: 16 – 18 inches
• Weight: 40 – 45 pounds

Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen Dog, Originating in France as hunting and sniffing dogs, these active and independent canines weigh between 40 to 45 pounds and stand at 16 to 18 inches. Though once used for hunting, they have seamlessly transitioned into loving companion roles, thriving best when kept with other dogs.

The 7 Breeds in Development:

Surprisingly, the Foundation Stock Service harbors numerous breeds at any given moment, far too many to comprehensively explore in this discussion. Among these breeds are some that may be familiar to you, yet it might come as a revelation that they have not yet received full recognition from the American Kennel Club (AKC). Here, we highlight a selection of these breeds that, despite their familiarity, continue to await official acknowledgment within the AKC registry.

1. Alaskan Klee Kai:

• Height: Up to 17 inches
• Weight: 10–20 pounds

Intelligent and interactive, these Husky-type dogs come in toy, miniature, and standard sizes. Compact yet energetic, they require daily one-on-one time and moderate exercise.

2. American Bulldog:

• Height: 20–28 inches
• Weight: 60–120 pounds

Dating back to the 1600s, these Mastiff-type dogs are large, affectionate, and protective. Not ideal for homes with small children, early socialization is crucial for their well-being.

3. Catahoula Leopard Dog:

• Height: 22–26 inches
• Weight: 50–95 pounds

Versatile in roles from hog hunting to protection, these intense and faithful dogs require consistency, socialization, and training for optimal development.

4. Jagdterrier:

• Height: 10–13 inches
• Weight: 17–22 pounds

Despite their small size, these courageous hunters have high energy levels and a strong prey drive, making them unsuitable for homes with small pets.

5. Mountain Cur:

• Height: 16–26 inches
• Weight: 30–60 pounds

Known for high intelligence and trainability, these hunting dogs thrive with a job or regular enrichment. Affectionate with children, they are unsuitable for homes with small animals.

6. Perro de Presa Canario:

• Height: 22–26 inches
• Weight: 80–140 pounds

A Mastiff-type dog reaching up to 140 pounds, they are stubborn, gentle, and protective. Socialization and consistent training are vital for managing their willful nature.

7. Pyrenean Mastiff:

• Height: 28–31 inches
• Weight: 130–200 pounds

A giant breed with a calm demeanor, these dogs weighing up to 200 pounds are known for their courage and friendliness. Popular as livestock guardians, their imposing size makes them distinctive.

Conclusion:

As we commemorate the one-year anniversary since the official registration of these 18 distinct breeds with the esteemed American Kennel Club (AKC), the global community stands on the precipice of anticipation, eagerly awaiting the unfolding chapters of canine diversity. As the Foundation Stock Service diligently nurtures the growth and development of countless more breeds, the canine kingdom teases us with the promise of unveiling even more remarkable surprises in the years that lie ahead.

In this ever-evolving narrative of canine companionship, our collective gaze is drawn towards the horizon, where the future of dog breeds takes shape. The ongoing evolution within the Foundation Stock Service serves as a beacon, illuminating the boundless possibilities and untapped potential within the realm of canine diversity.

So, let us remain vigilant and attentive as we navigate through the concluding moments of 2023 and step into the dawn of 2024. The AKC, with its unwavering commitment to excellence, is poised to make announcements that will undoubtedly shape the landscape of the registry. As new members are welcomed into this prestigious fold, the tapestry of breeds continues to weave itself, creating a story of heritage, uniqueness, and the unwavering bond between humans and their four-legged companions. Embrace the journey, for within the canine kingdom, each chapter unfolds with the promise of discovery, forging connections that endure through time.