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 Joining the list this year of American Kennel Clubrecognized breeds are the Irish Red and White Setter, Norwegian Buhund and Pyrenean Shepherd will be among more than 160 breeds competing for Best in Breed, Group Winner and Best in Show honors here at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center. The addition of these breeds brings the number of breeds and varieties recognized by the American Kennel Club to over 160.
The Irish Red and White Setter is a distinct breed which is part of the Sporting Group, not just a different colored version of the Irish Setter. Bred primarily for the field, they are strong, powerful and athletic, with a keen and intelligent attitude. Known in Ireland since the 17th century, the Red and White is thought to be the older of the two Irish Setters. However, it was nearly extinct by the end of the 19th century. During the 1920s, efforts were made to revive the Irish Red and White Setter and by the 1940s, the breed began to re-emerge in Ireland.
 The Norwegian Buhund was once the cherished companion of Vikings. It is a versatile farm dog, originally from Norway, that herds livestock, guards property and has been used for hunting game. The name means farm dog --"Bu" in Norwegian means homestead or farm and "hund" means dog. The Buhund is a double- coated, squarely-built spitz, a little under medium size, with mobile prick ears, a tightly-curled tail carried over the center of its back, and dark, almond-shaped eyes with an intelligent, friendly expression. This energetic working dog has plenty of strength, and stamina, and is also known to be independent. The Norway Buhund is part of the Herding Group.
 The final new breed this year is the Pyrenean Shepherd. Also known as Berger des Pyrénées or “pyr shep”, this breed is also part of the Herding Group. Herding has been and remains the mainstay of the economy of the High Pyrenees and the Pyrenean Shepherd is the traditional working companion of the larger dog, the Great Pyrenees. Together they aid the shepherd in his everyday tasks involving sheep or other livestock. Although small in stature and weight, the breed is said to have few equals in both herding and guarding. The face is expressive and intelligent, with dark eyes, except in the case of merles or slate gray coat color. The body is long and lean, and reflects the natural energetic athleticism of the dog. |
