AKC’s Pack Grows With Addition Of 3 Dog Breeds

Mary Simpson
by Mary Simpson
Welcome to the club! This year, the American Kennel Club has added three more breeds to its official registry.


Founded in 1884, the American Kennel Club (AKC) is unquestionably the crème de la crème of clubs, a self-proclaimed arbiter of all things “dog”, and an organization fiercely committed to maintaining the integrity of the pure-bred dog registry. So when the AKC gives you the thumbs up and that sought-after nod that tells you “you’re in”, you’ve got some serious celebrating to do.


Such was the case when three new breeds were recently added to the exclusive registry: the Berger Picard, the Lagotto Romagnolo, and the Miniature American Shepherd. While the names may sound like designer watches or exotic sports cars, these breeds make great family pets and have earned their spot on the podium.

Joining the “herding” group, the Berger Picard is French in origin and was bred to be a working companion. He is a medium-sized boy who is good-natured, loyal, and very athletic, so requires daily exercise and mental stimulation. This breed needs regular brushing and the occasional bath.

Being accepted into the “sporting” group, the Italian Lagotto Romagnolo is the only purebred dog in the world recognized as a specialized truffle searcher. He’s an energetic boy that loves to swim, play, and retrieve so daily exercise is essential and his affectionate, intelligent demeanor means he is great with kids.

Another “herder” but of a smaller stature is the Miniature American Shepherd. This little guy hails from the U.S. and has boundless energy. He is an eager to please, devoted, good-natured, and intelligent boy who needs weekly brushing and tends to shed.


With the addition of these three breeds, AKC’s registry now stands at 187. These latest additions 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.

Mary Simpson
Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and two felines who prefer to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

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