AKC Miscellaneous Class - Meet the Breeds

Dog breeds that are admitted to the AKC Miscellaneous Class, more or less go through an evaluation period while they are working toward full AKC recognition.

During this review time these "hopefuls" are still enrolled in the Foundation Stock Service until it is determined if they will be granted full registration status and become part of a standard group. 

In the meantime, breeds accepted into this class are permitted to compete and earn titles in Companion Events and also some Performance Events, but it is not until they are admitted to the official Stud Book that they can compete in regular conformation events and start earning championship points.

What Comes After Recognition?

Once a breed achieves official status, they are assigned to a breed group based on factors such as their characteristics, temperament, origins, purpose and history.

Factors that influence official recognition into an established AKC class, relate to evidence that there is progressive development, activity and substantial interest in the breed. Also, that breeding activity and awareness of the breed is expanding through the determined efforts of an established parent club.

The images shown below represent each of the 13 breeds currently in the Miscellaneous class of the AKC as of this update - June, 2026. This group represents but a small fraction of the total number of other purebred dogs that exist throughout the world.

The breeds in the Miscellaneous class will, of course, change from time to time as a breed receives full recognition and is  assigned to a breed group within the AKC.

It is interesting to note that the origins of those presently listed come from far and wide, including the countries of Russia, Germany, Italy, the United States and Japan, to name a few.


Miscellaneous Class Breeds 2026

The miscellaneous dog breeds are quite a diverse group both in physical appearance and in the abilities they bring.


Alaskan KleeKai standing outside in the grass with bushy background Alaskan Klee Kai
Spitz type breed of dog
The Alaskan Klee Kai is an American spitz-type breed of dog, developed in the late 20th century as a companion-sized dog resembling the larger Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky. It is an energetic, intelligent dog with an appearance that reflects its northern heritage.
Bolognese white dog standing in the grassBolognese
An attractive small white curly-coated dog related to the Bichon breed. Known for being an easy-going breed that is playful and likes staying close to his human family.
Czechslovakian Vlciak dog standing in the grass against a muted backgroundCzechoslovakian Vlciak
A highly intelligent, breed that resembles a wolf. A large dog noted for being very loyal and devoted to his family. They are strong, have good endurance, do well in dog sports and are best with active families.
Dutch Shepherd dogDutch Shepherd
Athletic herding dog breed that does well in agility and field trialing. His work related jobs, in addition to being a competent herder, include guarding and search and rescue.
German Spitz dog standing in the grassGerman Spitz
This lovely small dog with a stunning coat makes an excellent family companion. Being both lively and outgoing, but wary of strangers, he also makes a good watchdog. One of several Spitz breeds, he is characteristically entertaining and devoted to his family.
Akitainu dog in portrait
Japanese Akitainu
The Japanese Akitainu is a large dog breed similar in appearance to the American Akita, but they are separate breeds. Originating from the mountains of northern Japan, they were used by Matagi people for guarding and the hunting of bears. The breed is known for its deep loyalty.
Norrbettenspets dog breedNorrbottenspets
A small yet extremely rugged dog of the Spitz type designated to the hound group.
This energetic and playful dog needs plenty of exercise.
Peruvian Inca Orchid dog head and shoulders looking into the cameraPeruvian Inca Orchid
A smart, agile sighthound of ancient origins, aka Moonflower dog and Inca Hairless dog. His likeness has been seen on Inca pottery since 750AD.
Portuguese Podengo dog standing outside on rough groundPortuguese Podengo, aka Podenco Ibicenco
Sadly many Portugese Podengos are waiting to be rescued. This one, as of writing, was here in the Podengo-post Rescue with others.
Agile, playful and loving, the Podengo has been seen in artifacts since 700s BC.
Pyrenean Mastiff dog breed standing in profile next to green fence railings outside
Pyrenian Mastiff
The Pyrenean Mastiff is an ancient breed descended from Molosser type dogs believed to have been brought by the Phoenicians to what is now Spain some 3,000 years ago. It was developed as a livestock guardian breed along with many similar mastiffs.
small munsterlander dog sitting outside
Small Münsterländer
Also known as Kleiner Münsterländer in its native Germany, this medium-sized breed is a versatile hunting dog capable of working over land and water. His abilities include, pointing, retrieving, tracking and swimming. They thrive in families that love outdoor activities.
Yakutian Laika dog sitting in the grass
Yakutia Laika
The Yakutia Laika originated in Siberia as a working breed. The dogs were used by native Sakha people for hunting, sled pulling, reindeer herding, and as draft animals. They were also enjoyed as family companions and are known for their friendly and gentle nature.
kai ken dog lying down facing camera
Kai Ken
The Kai Ken is a native Japanese breed discovered in 1929 in the mountain regions near Mount Fuji. It is a highly regarded and rare breed even in its homeland. It is reputed to be very intelligent with strong hunting instincts and bonds closely with its human family pack.

FAQs

What are miscellaneous class dogs?

The AKC Miscellaneous class is an interim category for rare breeds working toward full recognition that cannot be placed into any of the other AKC approved group categories. Dog Breeds that can currently compete in the Miscellaneous Class are still enrolled with the AKC Foundation Stock Service.

What is the purpose of the Miscellaneous class?

The purpose of the Miscellaneous Class is to encourage the development and recognition of new and rare dog breeds while providing a pathway towards full AKC recognition.

Can breeds in the Miscellaneous class participate in AKC events?

Yes. Breeds in the Miscellaneous Class can compete in certain events, such as obedience trials and conformation shows, but only within their class.

What is the Foundation Stock Service (FSS)?

The Foundation Stock Service is used to enroll new and developing breeds that are not yet fully registrable and where pedigree and ownership records can be started. This is the starting point for the breed recognition process to achieve full AKC recognition.


Share Your Knowledge and Pictures

Are you the proud owner of any of the dog breeds named above?

If you are, your "insider" information would be of great value to others who are interested in one of these breeds!

We invite you to share your dog's pictures and his/her story as well as your knowledge about the breed you are familiar with.

You can put the spotlight on your dog by uploading his/her photos and telling their story here. For inspiration, read some of the stories already submitted by other dog lovers.


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Photo Credits:
  • Norrbottenspets: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Spitz_De_Norrbotten.jpg License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0
  • Peruvian Inca Orchid: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Taru_metsa.jpg License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.5
  • https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Basset_Fauve_de_Bretagne2.jpg pc.david License: creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0
  • Bolognese Mrtibbs1999, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
  • Czechoslovakian Vlciak UsernameNotInUse, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
  • Kai Ken: Plopperdeplop1, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
  • Alaskan Klee Kai Hyrel at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka, and German Spitz, Pixabay