Westminster Dog Show - New Breeds This Year!

In honor of a friend who is showing her French Bulldogs at Westminster this year, I thought I'd share a bit of news about this prestigious show. 


First good luck Terri!! 

NOT her dog..just a pic of a Frenchie

So this year, they are having 6 new breeds represented in the show (where they have a total of 179 breeds and varieties being shown!). Now these are not "new breeds" that were recently developed. It's just that sometimes breeds are not recognized by the AKC. They still exist of course! But the AKC has certain standards they look for - including conclusive, documented proof that a certain breed was consistent through so many generations and that there is enough interest in that breed in the US. There are MANY breeds in Europe and elsewhere that you've never heard of! 
If you want more info on any of these, Google the breed name. 


They are:


1. Icelandic Sheepdog

 -never saw one


2. Leonberger

-had one client in Sussex County that had a few - nice dogs


3. Boykin spaniel

-never saw one but I recall a tech mentioning it once..she thought it was something someone made up...admittedly the name sounds funny...think about it..


4. Cane Corso

-have seen and dealt with several - some people are afraid of them - but they are protective dogs that have been used as guard dogs - I have seen very sweet ones (that were properly socialized!)


5. Bluetick Coonhound

-seen these guys...very nice dogs


6. Redbone Coonhound

-seen these too - maybe 1 or 2 in 13 yrs but hounds are generally nice dogs


The Official Westminster Website