Trusty canines have been a human's best friend since the dawn of modern civilization, resulting in a broad range of breeds as wonderfully diverse in appearance and personality as the very people who bred them. Good for companionship and protection, dogs remain so lovable that we're willing to look the other way even when they occasionally ruin the carpet or destroy our favorite slippers.
Meanwhile, as we crafty humans (and chance) continue experimenting with the possibilities of genetic selection and crossbreeding, new breeds emerge to deliver all sorts of lovable (and not so lovable) unique traits along with them. Not to mention all the breeds that have been around for hundreds of years, slipping under the American radar until finally earning their way into our hearts and homes. It might lead one to wonder: Have any new purebreds been officially recognized by the American Kennel Club—which determines our pedigree registry—in 2026?
Wonder no more. Stacker is here to heed the call. So far in 2026, AKC has recognized three new breeds, bringing the total number of AKC-recognized breeds to 205.
What will the future hold for our favorite furry friends? Only time will tell.
1. Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka
Often simply called "Bolonka" ("Bolonki" in the plural), the name of this charming, medium-coated toy breed translates to "Russian colored lapdog." The easygoing Bolonka stands just 11 inches tall and weighs between six and nine pounds, making for a petite, ultra-friendly companion who can go just about anywhere with their owner. When they're not lounging around with family members, Bolonki are dedicated watchdogs, though they won't bark constantly.
2. Basset Fauve de Bretagne
The spirited, sociable Basset Fauve de Bretagne developed in 18th- and 19th-century France as a short-legged hunting hound. Though once believed to be near extinction, the breed has continued to thrive in its native country and now enjoys growing popularity worldwide. The Basset Fauve de Bretagne easily wins over owners with its friendly facial expression and sweet demeanor, though the dogs can be stubborn and are happiest with vigorous exercise.
3. Teddy Roosevelt Terrier
President Theodore Roosevelt is said to have owned these energetic ratting terriers, whose adaptability and petite size make them equally well suited to apartments or rural living. Though bred to hunt vermin, the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier also excels at obedience and agility training. Regardless of the task at hand, the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier requires significant exercise and an indoor-outdoor environment where they can spend quality time with their favorite humans.
How the AKC Determines New Breeds
Getting a new breed officially recognized by the AKC isn't exactly a walk in the park. It's a lengthy process that takes years of dedication from breeders and owners committed to their breeds.
The road to acceptance starts with meeting specific criteria, including foreign breed registry recognition and reliable U.S. record-keeping before entering the AKC Foundation Stock Service (FSS). From there, breeds need 150 dogs with three-generation pedigrees, a written breed standard, and one U.S. club representing them before moving into the Miscellaneous Class.
Before achieving full recognition, breeds must prove they have a minimum number of dogs spread across different areas of the United States, parent club members in good standing, and dogs earning Certificate of Merit titles in the Miscellaneous class. Only then can they finally join the official roster and start competing in AKC Conformation events.
