6 new breeds at Westminster

If you are in to purebred dogs, six new dog breeds will debut at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog show that opens on Valentine’s Day in New York. If you work in rescue you might want to check them out so when they begin to show up in shelters, you will recognize them. Of course, we in Florida recognize the hounds and spaniel already. They have been around the south for as long as I can remember. As listed on the Westminster website, they are:

*The Boykin Spaniel, a versatile and compact gundog. The breed was developed in the early 1900s in the Midlands of South Carolina to fill the need of local hunters for a smaller retriever for hunting waterfowl. Their nickname is apropos: “the little dog that doesn’t rock the boat.” In the field, they steal the show as tenacious, assertive and enthusiastic flushing and retrieving spaniels. In the home, they steal hearts as gentle, affectionate and fiercely loyal members of the family. In 1985, Gov. Richard Riley signed an act making the Boykin Spaniel the official state dog of South Carolina.
*The Bluetick Coonhound, an athletic, compact, speedy and well-muscled hound.A determined and steady tracker, the Bluetick “should be a free tonguer on trail with a medium bawl or bugle voice,” according to the standard. Its name comes from its dark blue coat pattern, covered in ticking and featuring black spots on its ears, back and sides. That color may come from the Grand Bleu de Gascogne (French Staghound) as well as the English Foxhound. In America, Blueticks were referred to as English Coonhounds for many years.
*The Redbone Coonhound, a courageous breed. Known for being a versatile hunter of tremendous skill, they are used on differing game, inlcuding raccoon, bear and mountain lion. Dating back before the Civil War, breeders and hunters strove to have a hound that could not only perform in the woods but also have a strikingly beautiful look. A solid red coat, a personality to please and a natural tracking and treeing ability sets the Redbone Coonhound apart from other breeds.
*The Cane Corso, an ancient Italian breed, robust and muscular, medium to large, yet elegant and athletic. Historically found on family farms, its primary function was to mind livestock and property, as well as hunt for large game. The overall demeanor of the Cane Corso is confidence and impressive presence. The Cane Corso is highly intelligent and easily trained, docile and affectionate with family and friends. The breed faced extinction in Italy in the early 1970s, but working dogs from rural farms helped it recover. The Cane Corso was initially imported to the U.S. in 1988.
*The Leonberger, a large, muscular, elegant dog distinguished by a black mask and medium-length weather resistant coat ranging from lion-yellow to reddish-brown. Males and females are easily distinguished by size, with males carrying a lion-like mane. The Leonberger combines confident calmness with intelligence and a lively temperament. Originating in Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany, in the mid-19th century the Leonberger was kept as a farm dog and valued for its watch and draft abilities. Today the Leonberger is an excellent family companion, comfortable performing a wide variety of jobs.
*The Icelandic Sheepdog, which arrived in Iceland on the longboats of the first Viking settlers. Its working method adapted to the struggle for survival, making it indispensable. A hardy and agile Nordic herding Spitz that barks, it is slightly less than medium size with prick ears and a curled tail. It is rectangular when seen from the side. The coat is thick and extremely weatherproof. Being very alert, it will give visitors an enthusiastic welcome without aggression. They are cheerful, friendly, inquisitive, playful and unafraid.

Comments

Popular Posts