This small-scale dog is the newest member of the Herding Group .
Kyle Reynolds / Getty Images
The American Kennel Clubannouncedon Jan. 3 , 2024 , the Lancashire heeler is the new breed to earn the club ’s recognition , becoming the 201st dog breed recognized by the AKC . These heelers fall in the Herding Group and are now eligible to compete in AKC - sanction events , like firedog show and dog sports .
Photo:Kyle Reynolds / Getty Images
" We are excited to receive the Lancashire Heeler to the AKC registry as our 201st breed , " AKC Executive Secretary Gina DiNardo said in a news release . " A minuscule , powerful herding wiener that flourish on human interaction , this breed would make a slap-up associate for active kinfolk that can ply a big flock of love and attention . We powerfully encourage prospective dog proprietor to do their research to find the expert strain for their life-style . "
Lancashire heelers are the first stock to be recognize since the Bracco Italianoearned their recognitionin 2022 .
Although their precise blood line is unknown , theAKC saysthat Lancashire heelers date stamp back to the 17th hundred , and are the answer of a cross between a type ofWelsh corgiand theManchester terrier . Their unique " Heeler smile " is a stylemark of the breed where they string back their lips in a way that mimics a human smile .
The Lancashire heeler was discern byThe Kennel Clubin the United Kingdom in 1981 and join theAKC Foundation Stock Servicein 2001 . The United States Lancashire Heeler Club was form in 2007 and has worked since then to realise full AKC recognition for this modest blackguard breed . A strain can earn AKC recognition by the world of an combat-ready interest and follow in the United States ; an ground breed club ; and a " sufficient " universe of dogs broadcast across the country .
