THE 149TH 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.
NON-SPORTING
Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is known for their fluffy, cotton-like coat and cheerful personality. Standing 8-11 inches and weighing between 8-13 pounds, this small breed from Madagascar is both playful and gentle, thriving on companionship and affection. They adapt well to different environments and are particularly good at forming strong bonds with their family members and other pets in the household. Cotons also make fast friends wherever they go.
FUN FACT: Named for the seaport town of Tulear, Cotons were once the preferred lapdog of the nobles of Madagascar. History buffs will find many fanciful tales about how the breed arrived on shore— including swimming from a shipwreck!
PERFECT FOR: This breed is sociable and flourishes in both single and multi-pet households, though Cotons are not particularly independent. They thrive with an owner who can devote time to both grooming and providing affectionate care.
WORKING GROUP
Boerboel
Standing as high as 27 inches and weighing between 150-200 pounds, the Boerboel is a robust and commanding breed that emanates strength and confidence. Originally bred in South Africa to defend homesteads against large predators, their intelligence and resilience make them reliable protectors. Boerboels are also known for their gentle, loving interactions with family members and are among the most agile of all mastiff varieties.
FUN FACT: Historically, Boerboels were used to guard the diamond mines in South Africa. The breed has also been referred to as the South African Mastiff and the South African Farmer’s Dog.
PERFECT FOR: The Boerboel is best suited for experienced dog owners committed to consistent training and socialization. These lovable giants typically thrive in single-pet households, too.
HOUND
Cirneco dell'Etna
Independent, friendly, and low-maintenance, the Cirneco dell’Etna boasts an elegant and graceful lineage that dates back thousands of years. These prick-eared sighthounds are named after the rugged, volcanic terrain of Mount Etna in Sicily, where they historically aided peasant farmers by hunting wild rabbits. Adults typically stand 16 to 20 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 17 and 26 pounds.
FUN FACT: Between the 5th and 2nd centuries B.C., Sicily minted over 150 types of coins featuring the Cirneco.
PERFECT FOR: Ideal for those seeking a low-maintenance yet affectionate companion, the Cirneco dell’Etna adapts well to various living environments and provides quiet, steadfast friendship.
TOY GROUP
Russian Toy
The Russian Toy is a delicate yet spirited breed, known for its elegance and expressive eyes. These tiny dogs pack a big personality, combining keen alertness with boundless affection. Originating from Russia, they were favored by nobility and today continue to charm with their graceful demeanor and loyal companionship. Despite adults standing only 8 to 11 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 3 to 6 pounds, Russian Toys are robust and lively, eager to engage with their family and alert them to any disturbances.
FUN FACT: The Russian Toy has two distinct varieties based on their ear types: one with long, fringed ears that are unique among toy breeds, and another with erect ears, giving each a distinctive, charming appearance.
PERFECT FOR: Once bred by Russian aristocrats, today these petite dogs will feel right at home in an apartment of any size. Russian Toys are perfect for someone looking for a small companion with moderate energy levels.
HERDING GROUP
Beauceron
Beaucerons are revered for their intelligence, loyalty, and protective nature—and of course their distinctive double dewclaws and striking black and red coat. Adults typically stand 25.5 to 27.5 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 70–110 pounds, making them one of the larger and more robust herding breeds. Their strength and alertness made them indispensable as both herding dogs and guardians of the estate throughout French history.
FUN FACT: Beaucerons get the nickname “Bas Rouge” or “Red Stockings” due to the red patches that sometimes appear on the breed’s characteristically long legs.
PERFECT FOR: These highly intelligent and self-willed hounds are typically a good fit for experienced dog owners and those who live energetic lifestyles.
SPORTING GROUP
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are celebrated for their intelligence, friendliness, and outgoing personalities—and of course their trademark copper double coat. Adults typically reach 18 to 19 inches at the shoulder and weigh 25–35 pounds, earning them the title of the smallest and most compact retriever recognized by the AKC. Despite their smaller size, these energetic dogs are full of vigor—a trait that made them invaluable companions for tolling waterfowl during early 19th-century hunts.
FUN FACT: Comprising five words and 34 characters, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever boasts the longest name of all AKC-recognized breeds. Popular nicknames include “Little River Duck Dog” and “Yarmouth Toller.”
PERFECT FOR: Active individuals and families who can reciprocate the affection of this sociable and people-pleasing breed.
TERRIER GROUP
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Dandie Dinmont Terriers, standing 8 to 11 inches tall and weighing between 18 and 24 pounds, epitomize the charm and affection of small dog breeds. Originating from the borderlands between England and Scotland, these terriers are distinguished by a distinctive “top-knot” of silky hair and captivating, round expressive eyes. They blend classic terrier tenacity with a more reserved demeanor, making them endearing companions for novice and experienced dog owners alike.
FUN FACT: Dandie Dinmont Terriers are named after a fictional character, Dandie Dinmont, from Sir Walter Scott’s 1815 novel “Guy Mannering.”
PERFECT FOR: Dandie Dinmonts are adaptable to various living situations and can thrive in both urban and rural settings. Their gentle nature also makes them well-suited for homes with older children and seniors.
