Three New Breeds Join the American Kennel Club’s Official Registry
The American Kennel Club (AKC) has recently expanded its family of recognized dog breeds, welcoming three distinctive additions to its official registry. This expansion brings the total number of AKC-recognized breeds to an impressive 205, further enriching the diversity of purebred dogs in America. The Basset Fauve de Bretagne, Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka, and Teddy Roosevelt Terrier have now earned their place among the elite ranks of canines eligible to compete in prestigious events like the Westminster Dog Show and the AKC National Championship. While these breeds might seem new to many Americans, they’ve actually existed for generations in various parts of the world, only now achieving sufficient population and ownership in the United States to meet the AKC’s rigorous recognition requirements.
“We are excited to welcome the Basset Fauve de Bretagne, Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka and Teddy Roosevelt Terrier to the registry,” said Gina M. DiNardo, AKC President and CEO, in a recent press release. She emphasized the importance of potential dog owners doing thorough research before choosing a breed, noting that “each of these three breeds is unique, giving prospective dog owners even more options to find the right dog for them.” This sentiment reflects the AKC’s commitment to responsible dog ownership and finding the perfect match between humans and their canine companions. With these additions, dog lovers now have an even wider selection of breeds to consider when looking for a four-legged family member that suits their specific lifestyle and preferences.
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne, sometimes called the Fawn Colored Brittany Basset, brings centuries of French heritage to American shores. This charming hound traces its ancestry back to the 1500s in France, where it established itself as a “serious hunter” capable of tracking various game. These medium-sized dogs sport a distinctive coarse, wiry coat that naturally repels dirt and resists matting—a practical feature that makes them relatively low-maintenance in the grooming department. Beyond their hunting capabilities, these dogs are described as “cheerful, intelligent and eager to please,” making them excellent companions for active families. Their friendly disposition combined with their rich historical background makes them a fascinating addition to the AKC’s hound group.
Despite its presidential name, the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier bears little physical resemblance to its namesake, but it certainly shares the 26th president’s enthusiasm for hunting and outdoor activities. This distinctly American breed was developed with a practical purpose in mind: controlling vermin on farms and in homes, essentially doing the job that “lazy cats won’t.” These small- to medium-sized dogs pack a powerful personality into a compact frame, displaying a combination of affection toward family members and a strong protective nature. Their pack instincts make them loyal companions, while their “boundless” energy requires owners who can provide adequate exercise and engagement. Unlike some high-maintenance breeds, these terriers require minimal grooming, making them practical choices for active families looking for a spirited yet manageable companion.
The Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka brings a touch of international charm to the AKC’s Toy Group. These small, friendly companions originate from Russia and excel in urban environments, particularly apartment living, where their modest size and adaptable nature make them ideal neighbors. Despite their diminutive stature, they possess impressive intelligence and an independent streak, balanced by an intense loyalty to their human families. One of their most endearing qualities is their compatibility with children and other dogs, making them versatile additions to households of various compositions. Their clever personalities and affectionate dispositions have already begun winning the hearts of American dog lovers who appreciate small breeds with substantial character.
With these three distinctive breeds now officially recognized, the AKC continues its long tradition of celebrating canine diversity while maintaining strict standards for breed recognition. Each new addition represents not just a different set of physical characteristics, but a unique history, temperament, and set of capabilities that enrich the tapestry of domestic dogs in America. From the hunting prowess of the Basset Fauve de Bretagne to the vermin-catching skills of the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier and the companionable nature of the Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka, these breeds offer something special for different types of dog enthusiasts. As they make their debut in upcoming dog shows and championships, these newcomers will have the opportunity to showcase their distinctive qualities to a wider audience, potentially inspiring more Americans to welcome these once-uncommon breeds into their homes and hearts.
