Danish-Swedish Farmdog: American Kennel Club Announces Newest Breed

The American Kennel Club (AKC) announced Thursday that the Danish-Swedish Farmdog is the newest dog breed in their registry.

Why It Matters

Dog breeds added to AKC's largest purebred dog registry are allowed to compete at all levels of the club's sports and events. The club holds more than 26,000 sports and events every year.

What To Know

The Danish-Swedish Farmdog is the 202nd breed fully recognized by the AKC. Just because a breed is newly recognized does not mean it was newly created.

This image provided by the American Kennel Club (AKC) shows a Danish-Swedish Farmdog standing outdoors, the latest dog in the American Kennel Club's lineup of recognized breeds. The AKC announced Thursday that the Danish-Swedish Farmdog... Brooks H Mabry/American Kennel Club via AP

What Are Danish-Swedish Farmdogs Like?

Danish-Swedish farmdogs, originally known as Danish Pinschers, can be found on farms in Denmark and southern Sweden. They perform various tasks on the farm, but their specialty is vermin control.

These dogs are very fast and need daily exercise. They don't require much grooming, just a brushing and bath on occasion.

The Danish-Swedish Farmdog "is a people-oriented, friendly, loving companion," a press release from the AKC issued Thursday read.

What Is The AKC?

The AKC was founded in 1884. Besides running its dog registry, the nonprofit oversees the sport of purebred dogs in the U.S. and is a leading dog advocate.

"The AKC advocates for the purebred dog as a family companion, advances canine health and well-being, works to protect the rights of all dog owners and promotes responsible dog ownership," the press release read.

How Does A Dog Breed Become AKC-Recognized?

A breed must have an active following and interest from U.S. owners to gain AKC recognition. A breed club of responsible owners and breeders must also be established for a breed to be added to the non-profit's registry. And lastly, there must be a sufficient population of dogs from the breed spread throughout the U.S.

What People Are Saying

Gina DiNardo, AKC Executive Secretary, said in the press release: "We are excited to welcome the Danish-Swedish Farmdog to the AKC registry as our 202nd breed. This compact working dog is very versatile, loves a challenge and having a job to do."

"It would make a wonderful addition to a family that is able to provide it with the exercise and mental stimulation that it needs. As always, we strongly encourage prospective dog owners to do their research to find the best breed for their lifestyle," DiNardo added.

What Happens Next

The Danish-Swedish Farmdog will enjoy the good press it's getting with its AKC recognition and maybe more Americans will consider adding one to their family.

This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.