15 Gorgeous New AKC Dog Breeds That Will Amaze You
Dog lovers have reason to celebrate as the American Kennel Club continues to recognize amazing new breeds. These newcomers bring unique traits, fascinating histories, and stunning appearances to the canine world. From working dogs with incredible skills to companion animals with charming personalities, these recently recognized AKC breeds are capturing hearts across the country.
1. Belgian Laekenois
This rustic herding dog joined the AKC’s official roster in 2020. With its distinctive rough, tousled coat and alert expression, the Laekenois stands out from its Belgian shepherd cousins.
Originally bred to guard linen fields in Belgium, these dogs combine protective instincts with a devoted, hardworking attitude. They thrive on having a job to do and form tight bonds with their families.
Athletic and intelligent, the Laekenois requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
2. Barbet
The Barbet’s shaggy, curly coat and cheerful demeanor make this French water dog irresistible. Dating back to 16th century France, these versatile retrievers excel at waterfowl hunting but have found their place as beloved family companions.
Their webbed feet and water-resistant coat reveal their aquatic heritage. Don’t let the teddy-bear appearance fool you—Barbets are intelligent workers who need regular mental challenges and exercise.
Recognized by the AKC in 2020, these sociable dogs typically get along well with children and other pets, making them wonderful additions to active families.
3. Dogo Argentino
Muscular and powerful, the Dogo Argentino commands attention with its striking white coat and athletic build. Developed in Argentina for big-game hunting, particularly wild boar, these dogs possess remarkable courage and stamina.
Behind their imposing appearance lies a loyal and protective companion. The Dogo forms deep bonds with family members while maintaining a natural wariness of strangers—qualities that make them excellent guardians.
Officially recognized by the AKC in 2020, this breed requires an experienced owner who can provide consistent training, early socialization, and plenty of exercise to channel their energy properly.
4. Russian Toy
Small in stature but enormous in personality, the Russian Toy weighs just 3-6 pounds yet carries itself with remarkable dignity. These diminutive companions developed as ratters and lap dogs for Russian aristocracy during the 18th century.
Available in both smooth and long-coated varieties, their expressive eyes and perky ears give them an endearing, alert expression. Despite their delicate appearance, Russian Toys are surprisingly active and playful.
The AKC welcomed this breed to its ranks in 2022, introducing more Americans to these charming little dogs who bond intensely with their owners and make surprisingly good watchdogs.
5. Bracco Italiano
The ancient Bracco Italiano brings old-world elegance to the pointing dog world. With its distinctive droopy ears, soulful expression, and athletic build, this Italian breed combines beauty with remarkable hunting abilities.
Known as the Italian Pointer in English, these dogs have served as versatile hunting companions for centuries. Their calm, patient temperament at home contrasts with their enthusiastic work ethic in the field.
Recognized by the AKC in 2022, the Bracco needs moderate exercise and appreciates having a job to do. Their affectionate nature makes them wonderful family dogs who form strong bonds with their people.
6. Mudi
Hailing from Hungary, the Mudi showcases versatility few breeds can match. These medium-sized herders excel at virtually everything—from livestock management to agility competitions to search and rescue work.
Their wavy-to-curly coat comes in several colors, with the most common being black. With naturally pricked ears and an alert expression, Mudis radiate intelligence and enthusiasm for life.
The AKC officially welcomed this rare breed in 2022. Energetic and quick-learning, Mudis thrive with active owners who can provide both physical exercise and mental challenges to keep their bright minds engaged.
7. Biewer Terrier
Elegance meets playfulness in the Biewer Terrier, a relatively new breed with distinctive tri-colored silky hair. These little charmers originated in Germany in the 1980s as a rare color variation of the Yorkshire Terrier.
Despite their dainty appearance and long, flowing coat, Biewers maintain a true terrier personality—spunky, confident, and full of fun. They typically weigh just 4-8 pounds but carry themselves with remarkable dignity.
Recognized by the AKC in 2021, these affectionate companions adapt well to apartment living and make delightful family pets, combining a portable size with an adventurous spirit.
8. Lancashire Heeler
Small but mighty, the Lancashire Heeler packs working dog talent into a compact 10-inch frame. These spirited little dogs originated in England’s Lancashire region, where they excelled at both herding cattle and hunting rats on farms.
Their fox-like appearance—complete with alert expression and intelligent eyes—hints at their clever nature. The breed’s most distinctive feature might be its “Heeler smile,” a charming expression that makes them look perpetually happy.
Among the newest additions to the AKC’s roster in 2023, these adaptable dogs combine a strong work ethic with a loving personality, making them excellent companions for active families.
9. Azawakh
Elegant and otherworldly, the Azawakh resembles a living sculpture with its incredibly lean build and graceful lines. These sighthounds from West Africa can reach speeds of 40 mph, their bodies perfectly designed for desert hunting.
Fiercely loyal to their families yet aloof with strangers, Azawakhs form intense bonds with their chosen people. Their short, fine coat comes in various colors and patterns, often with white markings on the legs, chest, and face.
The AKC recognized this ancient breed in 2019. Independent thinkers with a sensitive nature, Azawakhs thrive with gentle handling and owners who respect their dignified temperament.
10. Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen (GBGV) brings French hunting tradition wrapped in a shaggy, charming package. These medium-sized scent hounds feature rough, tousled coats and long ears that help trap scent while tracking.
Developed to hunt small game through the rough terrain of western France’s Vendée region, GBGVs combine determination with a happy, outgoing personality. Their expressive eyes and bushy eyebrows give them an endearing, almost human-like expression.
Recognized by the AKC in 2018, these sociable dogs enjoy being part of family activities. Their hunting heritage means they appreciate having space to explore and follow their excellent noses.
11. Nederlandse Kooikerhondje
The Nederlandse Kooikerhondje combines striking looks with a fascinating history. These spaniel-type dogs feature white coats with reddish-orange patches and distinctive feathered black tips on their ears called “earrings.”
Originally bred in the Netherlands to lure ducks into elaborate traps called “kooien,” these dogs used their playful movements and feathery tails to entice curious waterfowl. This unique hunting method dates back to the 16th century.
Officially recognized by the AKC in 2018, these alert, intelligent dogs make responsive companions who enjoy both physical activities and quiet time with their families.
12. Pumi
The Pumi’s corkscrew curls and expressive face make this Hungarian herding dog instantly memorable. Their medium-sized bodies carry a distinctive coat of tight curls that form clumps rather than falling in traditional waves or locks.
With naturally erect ears that tip forward at the ends and a whimsical expression, Pumik (the plural form) have an almost terrier-like alertness and energy. They approach life with enthusiasm and intelligence, making them quick learners.
Welcomed into the AKC in 2016, these energetic workers need regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their adaptable nature and moderate size make them suitable for various living situations with active owners.
13. Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo might look like a teddy bear, but this ancient Italian breed has a serious job—truffle hunting! Their dense, curly coat resembles wool and comes in various shades of brown, often with white markings.
Originally water retrievers in the marshlands of Romagna, Italy, these dogs later specialized in finding valuable truffles underground. Their powerful nose and determined digging ability make them exceptional at this unique work.
Recognized by the AKC in 2015, Lagottos combine a keen work ethic with an affectionate personality. Their hypoallergenic coat requires regular grooming to maintain its distinctive curly texture and prevent matting.
14. Bergamasco Sheepdog
The Bergamasco Sheepdog’s extraordinary coat sets it apart from every other breed. As these Italian herders mature, their hair naturally forms distinctive flat, felt-like mats called “flocks” that reach the ground and protect them from harsh Alpine weather.
Despite their unusual appearance, Bergamascos are balanced, patient dogs with an independent thinking style developed from centuries of working with shepherds in the Italian Alps. Their unique coat requires minimal maintenance once the mats form properly.
The AKC recognized this ancient breed in 2015. Calm and loyal, Bergamascos form strong bonds with their families while maintaining a thoughtful, measured approach to life.
15. Spanish Water Dog
The Spanish Water Dog’s rustic curly coat and bright eyes reflect its heritage as an all-purpose farm dog from Spain’s wetland regions. These versatile workers herded livestock, assisted fishermen, and retrieved waterfowl—often all in the same day!
Their distinctive coat naturally forms wooly cords when left ungroomed and provides protection in all weather conditions. Athletic and energetic, Spanish Water Dogs approach life with enthusiasm and intelligence.
Recognized by the AKC in 2015, these loyal companions need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Their strong work ethic and eager-to-please attitude make them excellent partners for active owners interested in dog sports.
