The American Kennel Club, ultimate overseer of these AKC events, including the National Dog Show 2009, frequently "recognizes" new breeds. Recognition, as such, does not mean that the dog did not previously exist as a breed, just that it was not approved for entry into AKC events.
As such, these new breeds aren't necessarily making their AKC debut today, but they are making their National Dog Show debut in their first year of recognition, 2009. The three new breeds are the Pyrenean Shepherd, the Irish Red and White Setter, and the Norwegian Buhund.
A dog show involves canines attempting to win their "breed," and then after that attempting to win their "group." If they win their "group," the group winners will then be gathered as they compete for Best in Show. Televised dog shows, like the National Dog Show 2009, will usually show only group, and then Best in Show competitions.
The three new breeds in the National Dog Show 2009 are as follows:
First up is the Pyrenean Shepherd, which is a member of the herding group. This breed originated in the Pyrenees Mountains along the border of Spain and France. They are the smallest of the French herding dogs and the Pyr Sheps, as they are nicknamed, come in two coat types: Rough-Faced and Smooth-Faced. Colors include shades of fawn from tan to copper, as well as charcoal to silver to pearl grey. Pyr sheps range in size from 15 to 21 inches tall at the shoulder, and are best owned by an active family.
The Irish Red and White Setter is, according to the AKC, "not just a different colored version of the Irish Setter." Ranging in size from 22 1/2 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder, the Irish Red and White Setter requires minimal brushing, but regular exercise. It is an excellent family dog and is new to the Sporting group.
The Norwegian Buhund is another new member of the herding group. They range in size from 16 to 18 1/2 inches tall at the shoulder and 26 to 40 pounds. As a member of the herding group, they require regular exercise.
This National Dog Show 2009 is the latest in a series that began in 2002. This event started airing following the Macy's Thankgiving Day parade in 2002, and now is now part of the Thanksgiving tradition.
Posted November 26th, 2009 by Michael Santo
