THE 148TH ANNUAL WESTMINSTER KENNEL CLUB DOG SHOW
Hidden Gems
As the only dog show telecast live in America, the Westminster Kennel Club continues its mission to educate the public about the 200+ breeds and varieties. Some breeds only register a few hundred each year with the American Kennel Club. Long in history, yet short in numbers, these rare breeds are the result of the work by preservation breeders who over decades have ensured the health and well-being of these historic breeds of dogs.
HERDING GROUP
Lancashire Heeler
The Lancashire Heeler is known for its medium to high energy levels, combined with intelligence, alertness, and friendliness, making it quick to pick up new tasks. This sturdy little dog has a short, weather-resistant coat in black and tan or liver and tan. Small yet powerful and built sturdily, the Lancashire Heeler is alert and energetic, excelling at herding cattle while also exhibiting terrier instincts for hunting rabbits and rats. Although the breed’s history dates back to the 17th century, its exact origins remain unknown.
TOY GROUP
Affenpinscher
In France, the Affenpinscher is called Diabolotin Moustachu, which means “moustached little devil” and that tells you about both his appearance and his attitude. The Affenpinscher is a happy combination of charm and pluck, taking himself very seriously. A small dog with stamina, agility, and great courage, he also is a sensitive and gentle companion with a great desire to please. Affenpinschers are intelligent and quick to learn, and require a minimum of grooming. They are alert and willing at all times to protect their owner, his home and possessions.
SPORTING GROUP
Field Spaniel
Developed in the midlands of 19th century England, the Field Spaniel remains among the rarest of spaniel breeds. Moderate and well balanced, the field spaniel is a combination of beauty and utility, renowned for a beautiful head with expressive brows that convey high intelligence and good nature. The Field Spaniel is versatile and intelligent, excelling in hunting, obedience, agility and tracking, as well as in the show ring. As companions, they have few rivals. Affectionate and devoted to their owners, they exhibit a healthy dose of impishness, a penchant for instinctual problem solving, and a finely developed sense of humor.
WORKING GROUP
Leonberger
The Leonberger is a large, muscular and elegant dog distinguished by a black mask and medium-length, weather-resistant coat of lion-yellow to reddish-brown color. Males and females are easily distinguished by size, with males carrying a lion-like mane. The Leonberger combines confident calmness with intelligence and a lively temperament. For its size, the Leonberger is graceful and light on its feet. Originating in Leonberg – or modern day Baden-Württemberg, Germany – in the mid-19th century, the Leonberger was kept as a farm dog and valued for its watch and draft abilities. Today, the Leonberger is an excellent family companion, comfortably performing a wide variety of jobs.
HERDING GROUP
Norwegian Buhund
Once the cherished companion of Vikings, the Norwegian Buhund is a versatile farm dog 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 working breed has a lot of energy, strength, and stamina, but is also known to be independent.
