Herding dog joins 222 other pedigree breeds
The Kennel Club has announced that the Pyrenean sheepdog (smooth face) has been granted recognition, with effect from 1 April 2021.
A small breed of herding dog from the Pyrenees region of France, the Pyrenean sheepdog (smooth face) is closely related to the Pyrenean sheepdog (long haired), which was recognised by The Kennel Club in 1988.
The smooth face has a softer, shorter coat than the long-haired variety. The hair on the face and muzzle even gives a shaved appearance as it is so short. The body is also shorter and the overall appearance is of a more square-shaped dog.
The Pyrenean sheepdog (smooth face) breed will be classified in the Pastoral Group on the Imported Breed Register, which consists of herding dogs associated with working cattle, sheep, reindeer and other cloven footed animals.
The Kennel Club now recognises 222 breeds of pedigree dog. In a statement, it said that an interim breed standard is currently being developed for the Pyrenean sheepdog (smooth face), with a publication date still to be announced.
Once a breed standard is published, the breed will be able to be entered at Kennel Club licensed breed shows.
Image (c) The Kennel Club.
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