The air is filled with the sound of barking, from deep and resonant to high-pitched yapping. Excitement fills the air as you enter the exhibit hall, a sea of dogs and dog enthusiasts clamoring to see their favorite dog breeds, check out dog sporting events, and learn about educational canine topics. You see cuddly, huge dogs with fur sticking out on all sides, and smooth, sleek, and slim dogs that look like they’re ready to win races. Welcome to the AKC’s Meet the Breeds event!
The American Kennel Club held its annual AKC Meet the Breeds dog extravaganza on January 25-26 at Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. From Affenpinschers to Yorkshire Terriers, learn about AKC’s Meet the Breeds convention that gives like-minded dog enthusiasts a chance to interact with over 100 dog breeds from around the world.
The AKC’s Meet the Breeds Event: How it All Got Started
The AKC was founded in 1884 with a mission to serve as “a trusted expert in breed, health, and training information for all dogs. AKC actively advocates for responsible dog ownership and is dedicated to advancing dog sports.” Curious dog enthusiasts can read dog breed profiles on 200 dog breeds, each year adding more.
The first dog accepted into the AKC was an English Setter named Adonis consisting mainly of various hunting dogs, and the most recent dog breed to join the ranks is the Lancashire Heeler in 2024. Dog breeds are organized into seven dog breed groups:
- Toy
- Terrier
- Hound
- Herding
- Working
- Sporting
- Non-Sporting
Meet the Breed Event History
The AKC’s Meet the Breeds event began in 2009 to expose people to all sorts of dog breeds, from more popular breeds like Shih Tzus and Mini Dachshunds to some rare dog breeds you might not be familiar with, like the Basset Fauve de Bretagne from France or the Mudi, a herding breed from Hungary.
Over the years, the event has received support from big-name canine companies, including Purina Pro Plan, AKC Pet Insurance, and local news stations. Over the years, different cities have hosted the event, including San Diego, Tampa, Dallas, and Columbus.
In addition to perusing booths touting their dog breeds’ history, virtues, and characteristics, participants can stop by educational booths to learn about responsible pet ownership, play with puppies, and watch various dog sport demonstrations. Participating dog breeds come from the official AKC purebred dog list, dogs waiting to become full members of the Miscellaneous class, and Foundation Stock Service (FSS) dog breeds.
Let’s learn about some of the dog breeds you can meet!
Meet These 10 AKC Dog Breeds
Have you been interested in a dog breed to adopt? Check out some interesting information about 10 of the over 100 dog breeds featured at the AKC’s Meet the Breeds event.
1. Affenpinscher
If you’re looking for a bold, adorable dog that makes hilarious faces, look no further than the Affenpinscher! Originally from Germany, these little dogs only grow to be around 10 pounds as adults. Due to their funny facial expressions, Affenpinschers are often called “ape terriers,” “monkey dogs,” and “mustached little devils.” Affenpinschers are “famously funny” and look like they came straight out of a Star Wars movie, a mix of Chewbacca and Ewok. Instead of soft, cuddly fur, they have harsh dense coats and should be hand-plucked to remove dead fur instead of brushing. Affenpinschers are a great choice for someone looking for a small, human-like, serious yet silly dog to keep them company.
2. Basset Fauve de Bretagnes
As mentioned before, the only thing you now probably know about Basset Fauve de Bretagnes is they hail from France. “Basset” means “low set” in French, and the full breed name translates to “Fawn Colored Brittany Basset.” They only grow up to 15.5 inches and weigh 23-39 pounds. These eager-to-please French hounds have been hunting deer, boar, rabbits, and more in the Breton region since the 1500s. Only nobility and aristocracy were permitted to own packs of Basset Fauve de Bretagnes for hunting alongside horses. After the French Revolution, any citizen could enjoy the company of these smart, sociable dogs. Their popularity is increasing as more people in the United States fall in love with these lively canine companions.
3. French Bulldog
If you’re looking for a dog that always seems to have a smile on its face, a French Bulldog puppy is for you! Also called Frenchies or “clown dogs,” French Bulldogs are lively, intelligent companions who love being part of the family. They have bat-like ears, compact bodies, and snubbed snouts. French Bulldogs are affectionate and love cuddling up with their owners. Their friendly, gentle nature and loving, easy-going personalities have made the French Bulldog the #1 most popular AKC dog breed of 2024, ousting the Labrador Retriever from its top spot for over 30 years.
4. Keeshond
A Keeshond puppy, also called a "Kees," "Keeshonden," or "Smiling Dutchman," can trace its ancestry back to Pomeranians, Samoyeds, and other spitz-like dogs. Keeshonds served as watchdogs on canal barges on the Rhine River in the Netherlands, even appearing on the Great Seal of Amsterdam as the national dog of Holland. Keeshonds are unique in that they look like a combination of a fox and wolf wearing glasses with a thick coat of bear-like fur. Because they were bred to be guard dogs, they can be wary of strangers but incredibly loyal and affectionate with their owners. One fun fact you might have learned at the Keeshond booth at Meet the Breeds is their name “Keeshond” is one of the most mispronounced names in the dog world – while some people say “Quiche Hound” or “Keys Hound,” it’s actually pronounced “Caze-Hawnd.”
5. Leonberger
A Leonberger isn’t something with ketchup, lettuce, and tomato you order at the counter. Rather, it’s a fluffy, friendly large dog with origins in Germany with an affectionate spirit. It’s easy to see why they were a favorite of nobility including Napoleon III, King Edward VII, and Tsar Alexander II. These gentle giants are great with kids and love being close to their family members as companions. As Working group members, Leonbergers have an excellent work ethic and powerful physiques even weighing as much as some humans! They’re also agile and nimble despite their huge size. Leonbergers do well at cart-pulling competitions, enjoying the company of humans and other dogs while performing a “job” to keep them active and engaged. A Leonberger is easy to train because they love pleasing their people.
6. Maltese
A Maltese dog is a small, elegant toy dog breed known for its long, silky white coat and lively personality. Originating in the Mediterranean on the island of Malta, Maltese were one of the first dog breeds to be bred specifically for companionship instead of having another purpose. They are affectionate and friendly and often form strong bonds with their owners. Their size, low-to-no-shedding hair, friendly nature, and adaptability to various living situations make a Maltese dog a great choice for different living situations and first-time dog owners. Their affectionate nature means they get along with children who know how to treat them safely. Maltese learn quickly and are easy to train, so be thinking of the fun tricks you will teach your Maltese puppy!
7. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Pembroke Welsh Corgi puppies paws down have the cutest behinds of any dog breed! Their fluffy backside, long bodies and snouts, huge bat-like ears, and short, stubby legs make this comical dog the talk of the dog park with its silly antics and boundless energy. Queen Elizabeth II adored Corgis and kept a royal Corgi breeding program, enjoying the company of over 30 Corgis in her lifetime. These high-energy dogs are perfect playmates for boisterous kids. Whether they're herding their human pack or melting hearts with their hilarious nature, Pembroke Welsh Corgis bring endless joy and laughter.
8. Rottweiler
Rottweilers are strong dogs that look imposing, but beneath those power muscles lies a goofy, loving personality. At heart, these dogs are real softies, exhibiting a calm disposition that makes them great with children and other animals. Their origins date back to ancient Rome, where they have been used for centuries as cart pullers, guards, shepherds, and in other protective, active ways. Rottweilers do best living with an experienced dog owner who can devote time to training and exercise. They are very intelligent and need a “job” to do, so keeping a Rottweiler puppy busy should be an important daily focus.
9. Shiba Inu
Is that a fox? No, it’s a Shiba Inu puppy! Shiba Inus are a delightful breed known for their charming personalities, high activity levels, fox-like faces, and overall good health. These dogs are the most popular companion dogs in Japan, and it’s easy to see why when you meet their spunky, bold personalities and active, alert nature. Shiba Inus are “cat-like” with their independent nature and love to keep themselves tidy and clean. They are said to pick up on human emotions, and you’ll swear they know exactly how you’re feeling and respond to cheer you up or celebrate with you.
10. West Highland White Terrier
A West Highland White Terrier, also called Westies or Poltalloch Terriers, is a small white dog originating in Scotland that only grows to be around 20 pounds. It is the perfect companion for just about any size living space. Westies were originally used to hunt burrowing prey and vermin but can now be found making their owners laugh with their stubborn nature. West Highland White Terriers form close bonds with their owners and are very affectionate with the people they love. True to typical Terrier nature, they are self-confident, spunky little puppies with a love of life. However, you’ll want to train them not to bark because they want to “tell” you all about it!
Pawrade Puppies Are Waiting For You to Meet Them
At Pawrade, we feature a myriad of dog breeds you can choose from ranging from small apartment dogs to great big family dogs. Need a hiking buddy? How about choosing one of the best hiking dog breeds to hit the trail and summit the peak by your side? Maybe you’re an empty nester looking for a little companion buddy to keep you company. Regardless of your desires, Pawrade has you covered with your perfect dog breed selection! Let us know if you have questions about various dog breeds to choose the right puppy for you.
