AKC Adds Three New Breeds To Its Registry

(USATODAY) -- The American Kennel Club officially recognized three new breeds for a total of 164 registered breeds. For photos of the Bluetick Coonhound, Boykin Spaniel and Redbone Coonhound, visit this album. Details about the latest additions:

Bluetick Coonhound: Like many coonhounds, it gets its name from a coat pattern, which is dark blue in color and covered in a ticking or mottled pattern. Working ability is very important to owners who prize the sturdy and athletic Bluetick for its skill in trailing and treeing raccoons and other small animals. The breed has origins in the English Coonhound, which was a fast working dog that excelled at following fresh game trails.

In 1945, Bluetick breeders broke away to form their own slower-working dog that could pick up older scent trails. Blueticks are known for having the typical coonhound "bawling" bark. This steady and determined breed can stay on the most intricate of tracks, making it a prized companion for active sporting families.

Boykin Spaniel: The official State Dog of South Carolina, the breed is a medium-sized, all-around hunting dog with a cheerful, energetic personality. The breed was developed in South Carolina in the early 1900s by Mr. L. Whitaker Boykin. Originally used to hunt wild turkeys, Boykins now typically work with ducks and other waterfowl. With a rich, chocolate-brown coat and charm to spare, the breed thrives on human companionship and enjoys children and other dogs. The Boykin has the stamina to stay by its owner's side during a full day. It fits best with an active family.

Redbone Coonhound: Known for its flashy red coat, the dog is a versatile worker and possesses the ability to hunt and swim over a variety of terrain while still maintaining its speed and agility. The breed is even-tempered and wants to please its owner. The Redbone dates back to red foxhounds brought over by Scottish immigrants in the late 1700s and red foxhounds imported from Ireland before the Civil War. Redbones possess a natural treeing instinct and will track game ranging from raccoons to cougars.

How does a breed become registered? The AKC describes the process on its website and says it takes anywhere from one to three years.