The Danish-Swedish farmdog has become the 202nd canine breed recognized in the American Kennel Club’s purebred registry.
The change allows Danish-Swedish farmdogs to compete in the Working Group at AKC-sanctioned sports and other events, including agility, barn hunt, flyball, herding, lure coursing, nose work, obedience and tracking.
“This compact working dog is very versatile, loves a challenge and having a job to do,” said Gina DiNardo, AKC’s executive secretary. “It would make a wonderful addition to a family that is able to provide it with the exercise and mental stimulation that it needs. As always, we strongly encourage prospective dog owners to do their research to find the best breed for their lifestyle.”
Originally known as the Danish pinscher, the Danish-Swedish farmdog excelled on farms in Denmark and southern Sweden as a multipurpose barnyard dog. While the breed performed many jobs, its specialty was vermin control, according to the AKC.
Affectionately referred to as the “little big dog,” the breed is coordinated, agile and fast and requires daily exercise. Danish-Swedish farmdogs tend to be people-oriented and have minimal grooming requirements, needing only an occasional brushing and bath.
Requirements to become an AKC-recognized breed include:
- An active following and interest in the breed by U.S. dog owners.
- An established breed club of responsible owners and breeders.
- A sufficient population of dogs geographically distributed across the United States.