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The pack is growing!
The American Kennel Club (AKC®) announced the full recognition of three new dog breeds into the registry. The Berger Picard, the Lagotto Romagnolo and the Miniature American Shepherd. This raises AKC’s total recognized breeds to 187.
“We’re thrilled to welcome such a great selection of dogs to the AKC family,” said AKC Spokesperson Gina DiNardo. “Each of these breeds is unique and will make wonderful companions to a variety of people. We urge potential dog owners to visit akc.org and learn about all 187 breeds to determine the right dog for their lifestyle.”
Meet the Breeds!
The Berger Picard
Good natured, loyal, observant
Hailing from France, the Berger Picard (pronounced bare zhay pee carr) joins the Herding group. The Berger Picard is a medium-sized, athletic dog that was bred to be a working companion. This good-natured, loyal breed has a great deal of stamina and drive, requiring daily exercise and mental stimulation. These dogs need weekly brushing and occasional bathing. For more information, visit picards.us.
The Lagotto Romagnolo
Keen, affectionate, undemanding
The Lagotto Romagnolo originated in Italy and joins the Sporting group. This breed is the only purebred dog in the world recognized as a specialized truffle searcher. It is a high energy dog that loves to retrieve, swim, and play, needing daily exercise. The breed is intelligent, affectionate, and good with children. For more information, visit www.lagottous.com.
The Miniature American Shepherd
Devoted, good-natured, intelligent
A small herding dog, the Miniature American Shepherd also joins the Herding group and was developed in the United States. These dogs are very athletic and energetic. They are eager to please, devoted, good-natured, and intelligent. While they only need weekly brushing, their full coat does shed several times a year. For more information, visit www.mascusa.org.
Because they’re now recognized the the American Kennel Club, all three breeds will be eligible to compete in AKC events beginning July 1, 2015.
To become an AKC recognized breed there must be a minimum number of dogs geographically distributed throughout the U.S., as well as an established breed club of responsible owners and breeders. Breeds working towards full recognition are recorded in AKC’s Foundation Stock Service® (FSS®). Additional information on the process can be found at akc.org.
