What Dog Breeds are Not Recognized by the AKC?

Introduction to Dog Breeds Not Recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC)

When it comes to purebred dogs, the first thing that comes to mind is the American Kennel Club or AKC. Founded in 1884, it is one of the biggest purebred dog registry in the world.

For a dog breed to be officially recognized as by the AKC, it must meet certain standards such as having a breed standard (appearance, temperament, other traits), a minimum number of dogs, and being registered with a national breed club. However, not all breeds make it to the list of akc recognition(at least not yet). In this blog post, we’ll discuss what purebred dog breeds are not accepted by the AKC and why.

Read More: Guide to Dog Clubs for Dog Owners.

1. Designer and Hybrid Dogs:

Designer and hybrid dogs are not recognized by the AKC. These breeds are a mix of two different purebred dogs, and their popularity grew in the late 20th century. Despite the rise in popularity, most new designer dogs do not have an established breed standard that has been maintained for a consistent period of time.

Examples of designer/hybrid dogs include the Maltipoo (Maltese and Poodle mix), Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever and Poodle mix), and Cockapoo (Cocker Spaniel and Poodle mix). While these breeds are not recognized by the AKC, they are recognized by other organizations like the Designer Dogs Kennel Club and the International Designer Canine Registry.

Read More: Everything You Need to Know About Mixed Breed (Designer) Dogs.

2. Rare Breeds:

Some dogs are not accepted by the AKC because they are considered rare or new. For a breed to be AKC registered, they need at least 100 dogs from 20 different states to be recognized.

Some examples of rare breeds include the Carolina Dog, the Thai Ridgeback, and the American Indian Dog. While these breeds may not be recognized by the AKC, they have dedicated breed clubs that advocate and support them.

3. International Breeds:

The AKC only recognizes a dog breed and other dogs that have breed kennel clubs from the United States. This means that international dog breeds are not recognized by the AKC.

Some popular international breeds that are not recognized by the AKC include the Norwegian Elkhund, the Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog, and the Shiba Inu. These breeds are recognized by other international dog breed registries like the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI).

4. Non-Purebred Dogs: Rescue (Super Designer) Dogs

Finally, non-purebred or mixed breed dogs of unknown breed (mutts) are not recognized by the AKC. These dogs are a mix of two or more unknown breeds, and they often end up in animal shelters or as rescue dogs.

While no registry exists for mutts, there are several organizations that advocate for their care and well-being, including the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS).

Additionally, with new DNA testing, many owners have been able to determine the ancestry breeds and form unique breed groups of rescue dogs (super designer dogs) on Furlyfe.com. Want to see a Siberian Cockerbeagle?

Read More: Five Ways to Find Your Dog’s Littermates

The American Kennel Club Foundation Stock Service (FSS)

The American Kennel Club (AKC) Foundation Stock Service is a program that aims to promote and recognize new breeds that are not yet recognized by the AKC. This program serves as a platform for breeders and enthusiasts who want to preserve and promote their rare breed.

The AKC Foundation Stock Service currently recognizes over 190 dog breeds from around the world, each with a unique history and characteristics. From the Catahoula Leopard Dog to the Spanish Water Dog, every dog breed recognized in the program is given the opportunity to grow and flourish under the guidance of the AKC and participate in some AKC events.

By recognizing these new breeds, the AKC Foundation Stock Service is helping to further breed standard, preserve the diversity of the dog world and ensure that these valuable breeds are not lost to history.

Six Dog Breeds in the Foundation Stock Service

1. Alaskan Klee Kai – This mini version of the Alaskan Husky has become popular for their striking resemblance to wolves as puppies. The breed comes in three different sizes, ranging from toy to standard, and was originally bred to create a companion-sized version of the beloved sled dog. While they may be small, they’re known for their intelligence and playfulness.

2. Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog – As the name suggests, this breed is a working dog used for herding cattle. They are closely related to the Australian Cattle Dog, but have a distinct stubby tail. Their high energy level and love of exercise make them great companions for active individuals or families.

3. Catahoula Leopard Dog – This unique breed has a striking coat that comes in a variety of stunning colors and patterns, such as leopard spots, brindle, and solid colors. They were originally used for hunting wild boar and cattle, but have become popular as loyal family pets. They are known for their high energy level and intelligence, making them great for advanced training.

4. Carolina Dog – This breed is also known as the American Dingo, and is believed to be one of the oldest dog breeds in North America. They were originally used by Native Americans for hunting and as a companion animal. The Carolina Dog has a unique coat and appearance, resembling a wild dog or coyote. They are highly intelligent and have a strong prey drive, making them the best dog breed suited for experienced dog owners.

5. Jagdterrier – Developed in the 1920s, also known as German Hunt Terrier – can trace their roots to a small group of Fox Terrier breeders who chose to split from the German Fox Terrier Club and craft an entirely new breed. The foundation for this new dog was laid by crossing four original Fox terriers with black and tan Jack Russell Terriers; today’s modern-day Jagdterrers are all direct descendants of these animals. They are experts in small game and large game alike.

6. Karelian Bear Dog – Prized for its courageous hunting abilities, the Karelian Bear Dog hails from Northern Europe’s region of ‘Karelia’ and has been around for many thousands of years. It is a Spitz-type breed that remains relatively uncommon across most parts of our world – though this does not take away from its illustrious past or extremely valued purpose! .

Hunting with these loyal canines is a unique experience. They silently track their prey in pairs, barking exuberantly when it’s found to signal the hunter and keep the animal still until help arrives. Thought to have been part of Viking communities for centuries, they were prized as versatile companions – herding farm animals, watching over families, even pulling sleds! But most importantly? These trusty canine pals were also used to hunt larger creatures like moose and bears.

(Many other include toy fox terrier, cavalier king charles spaniel, American hairless terrier, rat terrier, Biewer terrier,irish setter, cesky terrier, wirehaired vizsla, peruvian inca orchid, dogo argentino, belgian laekenois, norwegian lundehund, portuguese podengo, portuguese podengo pequeno) See a Full List Here: FurLyfe Breed List

Six Dog Breeds Not Recognized by the AKC (But Still Beloved By Dog Owners)

Although the AKC FSS recognizes 190 different breeds of dogs that are working to establish full recognition. There are still amazing dog breeds that have not yet met the FSS requirements. Below are five of those breeds.

1.Akbash Dog – The Akbash is a sturdy and swift dog, as befits its occupation to protect Sheep herds. When not preoccupied with warding off wolves, the Akbash is level-headed and introspective, with both agility and an independent mindset. He is experienced in working alongside people rather than being subordinate to them.

2.American Pit Bull Terrier – The APBT, or American Pit Bull Terrier, often has a scary appearance. However, they are bred to be loving family dogs that accept people. With the right owners who provide socialization, training and love, these dogs can have docile personalities and be great companions for humans.

3.Black Mouth Cur – The Black Mouth Cur is an athletic and hard-working breed, possessing a medium build with droopy ears plus usually (although not always) having a black mask on its face.

Bred in the United States, this exceptional dog has various distinct lines which display unique physical traits and personalities. Even today, the Black Mouth Cur is a multi-purpose pup known for its many jobs—from hunting partner and cattle herder to watch dog.

4.Koolie – The Koolie, otherwise known as the Australian Koolie, was initially bred in Australia during the early 1800s from working dogs brought over from Britain. Amazingly, there is a considerable variation among these canines within Australia due to its use for labor rather than physical traits and characteristics.

5.Norwegian Elkhound – Boasting an impressive legacy as a vigilant watchdog, flock guardian and big-game hunter, the Norwegian Elkhound is Norway’s national dog. He adorns a thick gray coat that serves to protect him from all kinds of dangers along with broad head, erect ears and tail which curls up on his back.

6.West Siberian Laika – The West Siberian Laika is an ancient Spitz breed hailing from Russia. This loyal dog has been carefully cultivated over hundreds of years to assist local tribes with hunting a wide range of animals, including sables and squirrels.

See a Full List Here: FurLyfe Breed List

Some Final Thoughts on Non-Recognized Breeds

The AKC is one of the largest purebred dog registry in the world, but it doesn’t recognize all dog breeds. Designer and hybrid breeds, rare breeds, international breeds, and non-purebred dogs are not recognized by the American Kennel Club.

However, this doesn’t diminish the value and uniqueness of these breeds to pet parents. There are many other dog organizations and breed clubs that support and advocate for these dogs. As dog owners, it is important to recognize and appreciate these these dogs for their individual personalities and traits, regardless of their kennel club status.