Miscellaneous Dog Breeds
Among the several dog breed groups categorized by the American Kennel Club, the miscellaneous class differs significantly from the others for the fact that it consists of breeds that haven’t been fully recognized or assigned to a breed group. These are purebred dogs found throughout the world that aren’t recognized by the American Kennel Club, but that deserve to belong to a breed group and given the opportunity to eventually grow in popularity. One day, these breeds may become eligible for registration with the American Kennel Club Stud Book.
A Look Back in History
Back in 1884, 13 breed clubs, 10 American clubs and 3 Canadian clubs reunited and founded the American Kennel Club. Since 1923, five breed groups were organized, and later a few more were added. As of December 5, 2012 the American Kennel Club has fully recognized 177 breeds categorized into seven groups and one class. Today, the groups consist of: the sporting group, the hound group, the working group, the terrier group, the toy group, the herding group, the non-sporting group and the miscellaneous class which with time may be given the opportunity to move within one of the seven groups.
Dogs in the miscellaneous class are dogs that are currently registered with the AKC Foundation Stock Service Program (FSS). FSS was purposely crafted for purebred breeds that are not yet eligible for AKC registration. In order to be accepted and compete in the miscellaneous class, the National Breed Club must submit a written request. Typically, dogs in this class compete for one to three years. At the end of the first year, the National Breed Club is then contacted for updates and if all the criteria for AKC recognition are met, the supporting information is presented to the Board of Directors for consideration to attain full recognition.
Who Should Own a Dog in the Miscellaneous Class?
- Those who want a not-so-common breed. Because dogs in this group are awaiting recognition, they may not be widespread as other breeds.
- Those who are willing to learn more about these breeds before adding them to their household. Because these breeds aren’t much widespread, information about them may not be as readily accessible as with other more common breeds. It’s a good idea to contact breeders, breed clubs and other owners to learn more about the breed and how it fits in your home and lifestyle.
- Fanciers eager to help a dog breed become more recognized. It’s through these committed individuals interested in perpetuating these breeds that the goal of reaching recognition is made possible. If you want to be a part of achieving this goal, then a dog from the miscellaneous class may be a good option.
- Those with allergies. There are a couple of breeds currently in the miscellaneous group which are hairless and less likely to create allergic reactions.
While you may not know well these breeds today, there’s little doubt about the fact that there is a high probability these breeds will be becoming more and more popular in the future coming years. We therefore should not be surprised to see some of the dogs in the miscellaneous class one day competing for the coveted Best in Show prize.