The American Kennel Club is welcoming four new breeds of dogs, including a South African guard go and a Spanish fishing dog, that will now be allowed to compete in dog shows nationwide, VA Gazette reported on Thursday.
The Berhamasco, the Cirneco dell'Etna, the Spanish Water dog and the Boerbol are now recognized by the club fully and can compete in club events starting Jan. 1, according to a club spokeswoman. The new recognitions brings the number of breeds in the AKC to 184.
But the new breeds must wait until 2016 to compete in the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club show because entries for this year's competition are closed. The Westminster club is an AKC member.
The Spanish Water Dog is described as a "lively, hardworking, and very intelligent," in addition to being "naturally protective," KRVN reported.
The Italian Cirneco dell'Etna is a "hunter that works by scent, sight and hearing."
Athletic, sociable and intelligent are the qualities the AKC gave the Bergamasco. The Boerbol is said to not be a good dog for first-time owners, but is one that strongly protects its family.
