American Kennel Club (AKC) announced last June 1 three new dog breeds which were added to its growing litter list of 173 recognized pooches. AKC welcomes English Coonhound to the Hound group, Finnish Lapphund to the Herding group, and Cesky Terrier to the Terrier group

American English Coonhound is an avid hunter known for its tremendous speed and loud voice. Originally these hounds were used to hunt fox by day and raccoon by night in the American colonies. Today, they still need regular daily exercise to stay in shape. They are affectionate dogs that appear alert and confident and make great companions for active owners. American English Coonhounds are sociable animals that get along well with people and other dogs. They are very trainable and eager to please.

The Finnish Lapphund is an alert and agile dog. The first Finnish Lapphunds were the helper dogs of the Sami – a tribe of semi-nomadic people in the northern region of Finland, Sweden, and part of Russia called Lapland. Because they were originally bred to live and work outside north of the Arctic Circle herding reindeer, Finnish Lapphunds have a thick double coat. They are intelligent, eager to learn, and are calm and friendly with people. They make loving and devoted family pets that do well with children and other dogs.

Intelligent and full of energy, the Cesky Terrier was bred to hunt vermin, fox, and badger, among others. They are active dogs that love to play, and require daily exercise. Cesky Terriers are loyal to their families, patient, gentle, and get along well with people of all ages, making them a wonderful family pet. They are anxious to please and easy to train. Their coat requires daily grooming as puppies and brushing twice a week as adults.

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[Dog descriptions and photos via American Kennel Club]