If you consider yourself a dog lover, chances are you can tell a Golden Retriever from a Lab in a heartbeat. Between those floppy ears, wagging tails and unmistakable personalities, most pet enthusiasts can identify dozens of popular dog breeds on sight. But what if we told you there’s a new face joining the club? It’s true! The American Kennel Club just made a major announcement, officially recognizing a rare dog breed that’s as so adorable.
This new dog breed is one so uncommon that many people have never even heard its name, let alone seen one trotting down the street in America. Why? There are only a few hundred of these pups in the United States, making this unique dog breed a rare gem in the canine world. However, with its newfound recognition, this beautiful dog breed might not stay that way for long.
If you’re curious what the name of this rare dog breed that is now officially part of the American Kennel Club’s recognized breeds, keep reading! That, as well as info about its personality, appearance history and more are below! Trust us, you’ll quickly fall in love with this unusual and small dog breed and want to become a pet parent to one of them ASAP!
Related: 7 Underrated Dog Breeds You’ll Love & Wish You Knew About Sooner
What Is the New AKC-Recognized Dog Breed?
A rare new dog breed called the Danish-Swedish Farmdog.
Drumroll, please…the rare and newest recognized dog breed in the Unites States is the Danish-Swedish Farmdog (DSF)! This marks the 202nd breed officially announced by the American Kennel Club (AKC), making it a special and standout addition in the world of AKC-recognized dog breeds.
So, what kind of personalities do Danish-Swedish Farmdogs have? “Danish-Swedish Farmdogs are small, compact dogs with a big attitude and a passion for a job and a challenge,” says the AKC. “A dedicated and hardy working breed, Farmdogs are far from needy, capable of entertaining themselves, and, like a cat, will lie on their back and play with a ball. These dogs are ready to accompany their owners to any activity.”
What Do Danish-Swedish Farmdog Look Like?
When it comes to appearance, the Danish-Swedish Farmdog is a super cute breed as it looks similar to a Beagle or a Jack Russell Terrier. They have short coats that are smooth and easy to care for and often feature a mix of white with brown or black markings, which adds to their overall charm.
Adult Danish-Swedish Farmdogs are typically 12-14 inches tall and weigh between 15 and 20 pounds, making them great apartment living dogs and pets for active families who enjoy outdoor adventures.
Related: These 6 Green-Eyed Dog Are Cute Devoted Pals, Say Vets
How Many Danish-Swedish Farmdog Exists?
Right now, spotting a Danish-Swedish Farmdog in the U.S. is like finding a four-leaf clover as there are only about 400 of them nationwide! But with the AKC’s official stamp of approval and growing buzz about the breed, these adorable pups could soon become the next regulars at your neighborhood dog park.
However, although the rare breed is newly recognized by the AKC in America, outside of the United States, these furry companions aren’t as rare as. In fact, they have built a loyal following across Europe, especially in Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Germany and the Netherlands.
The Surprising History Behind the Danish-Swedish Farmdog
While the AKC may have just welcomed the Danish-Swedish Farmdog into its official ranks this year, they say this breed’s story actually stretches back centuries, all the way to the Viking Age. Known for their intelligence and versatility, Danish-Swedish Farmdogs have long been a jack-of-all-trades, serving as farm helpers, rodent catchers, performers and even dock divers.
However, according to the Danish-Swedish Farmdog Club of America, this rare dog breed almost went extinct and was thankfully saved from extinction by the joint effort of the kennel clubs of Denmark and Sweden in 1987.
Source:
AKA
This story was originally reported by Parade Pets on Nov 6, 2025, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
