American Kennel Club Welcomes Three New Breeds

On January 1st, the American Kennel Club® (AKC®) expanded it's list of registered breeds to 170 breeds, welcoming the Entlebucher Mountain Dog, the Norwegian Lundehund and the Xoloitzcuintli as new additions. For breeds to become AKC-registered, they must first be recorded with an accepted registry. The AKC Foundation Stock Service® (FSS®) is the AKC's recording service for purebred breeds that are not yet eligible for AKC registration. After a breed is entered into FSS the recognition process begins with a written request to compete in the Miscellaneous Class from a National Breed Club. While there is no established timetable for adding new breeds, dogs typically compete in the Miscellaneous Class for one to three years.

"The AKC is delighted to introduce these three distinct breeds to the public. Each loveable breed has a unique and diverse history and is a wonderful addition to the AKC." said AKC Spokesperson Gina DiNardo.

The Xoloitzcuintli (pictured) is pronounced "show-low-etz-queent-lee". This breed is one of the world's rarest breeds and is still considered a "healer" in remote Mexican and Central American Villages today. The breed comes in three sizes: toy, miniature and standard; and two varieties: hairless and coated, which makes the Xolo ideal for those looking for a dog with more variety. According to the AKC, they serve as an excellent companion for families due to their attentive and calm nature and require moderate exercise and grooming. 

The Entlebucher Mountain Dog was bred to move cows from pasture to pasture in the Swiss Alps. The breed is medium-sized and prized for its agreeable nature, trainability, and devotion. Entles are an active, high energy and physical breed with above average exercise requirements, and for this reason the AKC suggests that they are best suited for active families and not the casual dog owner. The Norwegian Lundehund is known for having six toes on each foot and the ability to tip its head backward until it touches its backbone. These unique characteristics enabled the Norwegian Lundehund to climb steep, rocky cliffs and navigate crevices where the Puffins, a bird they were bred to hunt, nested. According to the AKC, Lundehunds make loyal and playful companions, but can be wary of strangers if not socialized.