As we roll into mid January, The Westminster Dog Show looms around the corner. It is always an exciting time of year for the dog show community.
Every year the AKC adds a new breed or two. New breeds that would like to achieve recognition must have a strong backing by their fanciers. Clubs are formed to support the breed and perfect the conformation of their dogs. Three hundred purebred dogs of a new breed are needed to be eligible for AKC acceptance.
This year at Westminster two new breeds will compete for the first time. The Coton de Tulear, a Non Sporting dog originally from Madagascar will be well represented with an entry of 14 dogs. This small companion dog became very popular in Europe especially in France in the 1800’s.
The Wirehaired Vizsla is similar to the smooth coated Vizsla, except for the coat. It is in the Sporting group. This dog is used for hunting in Hungary. There are four entered of this new breed at Westminster 2015.
A new feature of this years show is Westminster Presents; Meet The Breeds. At this event spectators can get up close and personal with the breeds they would like to find out more about. This will be held Saturday, Feb. 14th from 10am to 5pm. at Pier 92 in NYC.
Another important note, Westminster will be held Feb 16th and 17th this year, another break from tradition. Westminster has always been held the second Monday and Tuesday of February.
For more information on “Meet the Breeds” go to the WKC website.
As of January 1st, 2015, four new dog breeds have been recognized by The American Kennel Club. These dogs will be able to enter Westminster in 2016. This brings the total number of AKC recognized breeds to 184.
Bergamasco
The Bergamasco is an ancient breed used in herding and guarding sheep and cattle and found in the Italian Alps
Boerboel
The Boerboel is a large dog from South Africa traditionally used for farm work and known to be very protective of family
Cirneco dell’Etna
The Cirneco dell’Etna is a small breed named after Mt. Etna in Sicily and historically used to hunt rabbits.
Spanish Water Dog
The Spanish Water Dog is from the poodle family and a breed of dog developed by shepherds in Spain.
More about Westminster 2015 to come!