NEED TO KNOW
Three new dog breeds are getting their official recognition.
On Tuesday, Dec. 30, the American Kennel Club (AKC), the world’s largest registry of purebred and mixed-breed dogs, shared that three breeds have been added to its official registry: the Basset Fauve de Bretagne, the Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka and the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier.
As part of the AKC registry, the newly added breeds can now compete in confirmation dog shows like the Westminster Dog Show and the AKC National Championship.
“We are excited to welcome the Basset Fauve de Bretagne, Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka and Teddy Roosevelt Terrier to the registry,” Gina M. DiNardo, AKC President and CEO, said in a press release. “As always, it’s extremely important to do your research to find a breed that matches your lifestyle.”
“Each of these three breeds is unique, giving prospective dog owners even more options to find the right dog for them,” she added.
Although none of these dog breeds are “new,” each has reached a large enough population in the United States to meet the requirements for full recognition, bringing the number of recognized breeds to 205.
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne, also known as the Fawn Colored Brittany Basset, is a hound with coarse, wiry fur that conveniently repels dirt and does not mat, according to the AKC.
With ancestry dating back to the 1500s, the hunting breed used to hunt a variety of different game in France. Now, the medium-sized dogs are cheerful and intelligent home companions who require at least two brisk walks a day and weekly combing and brushing.
Getty
As for the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier? According to the AKC, the small to medium-sized hunters were developed in the United States to control vermin at homes and farms.
Now, the lively, friendly and affectionate breed thrives on regular exercise and continues to possess a strong and protective nature.
Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
Getty
Finally, the Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka is a small and friendly breed from Russia that is now joining the Toy Group. According to the AKC, the little dogs are clever and independent, but remain “intensely loyal” to their families.
While their coats require frequent brushing, they do not need much exercise and are often great with children and other dogs.
Getty
Each breed is now eligible to compete in any of AKC’s 26,000 sports and events each year. To learn more about the Basset Fauve de Bretagne, Teddy Roosevelt Terrier, Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka, or any of the other 205 AKC-recognized breeds, visit the American Kennel Club’s website.
