Photo Credit: Jack Grassa

Ever heard of a Boerboel or a Cirneco dell’Etna? Check out the handsome hounds that debuted in this year’s Westminster Kennel Club All Breed Dog Show

By Sarah Emily Gilbert

The 140th Westminster Kennel Club All Breed Dog Show invaded Madison Square Garden on Monday and Tuesday, February 15-16.   With a combined entry of over 3,000 dogs in three competitions, this year’s show surely brought the world’s best and brightest purebred dogs. Entries came from all 50 states and 12 foreign countries, but the tristate area brought some serious competition. New York had the most entries (270), followed by Pennsylvania (203), and New Jersey (190). However, a California pooch came home with the title of 2016 Best in Show. CJ, a 3-year-old male German Shorthaired Pointer from the town of Temecula, stole the heart of judge Dr. Richard Meen from Canada.

While a Shorthaired Pointer won it all, the breeds with the largest entries were the ever popular Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and French Bulldog. However, there were seven lesser-known, but equally impressive breeds that made their first appearance at Westminster last night. Below, you’ll see the new breeds that vied to be this year’s “top dog.”

Cirneco dell'Etna (Hound Group): This small hound-type dog is used in Sicily for rabbit hunting. Able to work for hours without food or water, they are known to be an extremely hardy breed, free from inherited health problems. Their affectionate and gentle temperament makes them an ideal companion for children.

Bergmasco (Herding Group): This ancient sheepherding breed dates back thousands of years to the Italian Alps (near Bergamo), where it was used to tend and herd sheep in the extreme climate and mountainous terrain.   The breed is known to make a deep connection with people and display patience and self-control.

Berger Picard (Herding Group): Also known as the Picardy Shepherd, the Berger Picard is one of the oldest French herding breeds. They love to work, but are known to be playful and comical - fitting for a breed that always looks like its smiling.

Boerboel (Working Group): Originally from South Africa, the Boerbel is known for its big, strong, and athletic build. Bred as working farm dogs, this striking breed has strong territorial instincts, but can make a calm, obedient companion when socialized properly.

Lagotta Romagnolo (Sporting Group): This loyal Italian breed’s name means “lake dog from Romagna” due to its impressive aquatic ability. However, the Lagotto is used in the modern day as a truffle-hunting dog. Its rustic curly coat protects it from the thorns and brambles in the forest when searching for truffles buried deep underground.

Mini American Shepherd (Herding Group): This small sized herding dog is a U.S. native. It is known for its excellent athletic ability, endless energy, and superior intelligence. This breed makes for a perfect family pet with its devotion and willingness to please.

Spanish Water Dog (Herding Group): This medium sized, curly-coated farm dog most likely originated in Turkey where it was imported to Spain to work as a guard dog and sheepdog. The Spanish Water Dog is also used as a fisherman’s assistant due to its impressive water retrieval skills. The breed is said to be loyal, affectionate, and spirited.