There are some new dogs on the block!
On January 1, 2026, the Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne, and the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier earned full American Kennel Club recognition, increasing the roster of AKC-recognized breeds to 205. While these pups have been around for ages in Russia, France, and the U.S., respectively, their new AKC recognition allows them to officially compete in AKC conformation shows near and far.
Now, we know what you’re thinking: If these dogs have deep roots in their home countries, why are they just now earning recognition? The AKC has very high standards when it comes to officially recognizing breeds. The extensive approval process requires a minimum of 150 dogs with three-generation pedigrees, a written breed standard, and one club representing the breed in the U.S.—and that’s just to make it to the Miscellaneous Class. Further criteria must be met to become fully recognized.
According to the AKC, “New AKC breeds draw attention as they’re often related to older established breeds but may differ in looks, personality, and purpose. Once people learn about the newcomers, they find their differences appealing, a perfect match for their lifestyle, and wonder how they ever lived without them.”
All this to say, if you like to be up to date on all things AKC or if you’re looking to add a new furry member to your family in 2026, keep reading to get to know the new AKC-Recognized Dog Breeds.
Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka
Nickname: Russian Colored LapdogOrigin: Russia, 1950sFamily: BichonSize: ToyCoat: Medium WavyShed: ModeratePersonality: Sweet and friendly, with no signs of aggressionLife Expectancy: 14 to 20 years
Basset Fauve de Bretagne
Teddy Roosevelt Terrier
Nickname: The TeddyOrigin: United StatesFamily: TerrierSize: SmallCoat: Short SmoothShed: ModeratePersonality: Lively and affectionate, but with boundariesLife Expectancy: 14 to 16 years
Rebecca Norris is a full-time freelance writer living in the DC metro area. She writes for a variety of publications, covering everything from beauty and wellness to style and celebrity news. When she’s not writing, she can be found doing all the dog mom things with her Jack-Chi, Cash.
