10 Fun Facts About AKC’s Newest Italian Breeds

Bergamasco (AKC recognition January 1, 2015)

• The breed’s traffic-stopping dreadlocks are called flocks. (For the Puli and Komondor, they’re called cords.)
• The flocks begin to form naturally, but during the first year, owners have to be vigilant about separating the mats. Once grown, they’re easy to maintain.
• At the AKC’s 2015 Meet The Breeds, the Bergamasco was named Best Booth.

Cirneco dell'Etna (January 1, 2015)

• Originally used for rabbit hunting in Sicily.
• “dell’Etna,” means Mount Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe. It was added to the breed’s name in 1939.
• The Cirneco dell’Etna Club of America refers to them as an ancient breed.

Lagotto Romagnolo, (July 1, 2015)

• The only purebred dog specifically bred to hunt the highly-valued truffle.
• His gorgeous, curly coat doesn’t shed.
• The name is synonymous with “water dog,” which was the breed’s original function.

Here are the AKC’s other Italian breeds:

• The Bracco Italiano is in the AKC’s FSS Group, meaning, not yet eligible for AKC registration, but the process is underway.
• Cane Corso (Working Group)
• Neapolitan Mastiff (Working Group)
• Spinone Italiano (Sporting Group)​

If you’re wondering why the Italian Greyhound didn't make the list: Despite its name, the original roots of the breed trace back to the area that is now Greece and Turkey.

Watch this Lagotto zoom for the 'shroom:

Related:

Italian Breeds March Up 5th Avenue in Honor of Columbus Day

How Does a Breed Become an AKC Breed?