Meet the 3 rare dog breeds that just received AKC recognition

Nickname: Russian Colored Lapdog
Origin: Russia, 1950s
Family: Bichon
Size: Toy
Coat: Medium Wavy
Shed: Moderate
Personality: Sweet and friendly, with no signs of aggression
Life Expectancy: 14 to 20 years

There are some new dogs on the block!

On January 1, 2026, the Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne, and the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier earned full American Kennel Club recognition, increasing the roster of AKC-recognized breeds to 205. While these pups have been around for ages in Russia, France, and the U.S., respectively, their new AKC recognition allows them to officially compete in AKC conformation shows near and far.

Now, we know what you’re thinking: If these dogs have deep roots in their home countries, why are they just now earning recognition? The AKC has very high standards when it comes to officially recognizing breeds. The extensive approval process requires a minimum of 150 dogs with three-generation pedigrees, a written breed standard, and one club representing the breed in the U.S.—and that’s just to make it to the Miscellaneous Class. Further criteria must be met to become fully recognized.

All this to say, if you like to be up to date on all things AKC or if you’re looking to add a new furry member to your family in 2026, keep reading to get to know the new AKC-Recognized Dog Breeds.