The American Kennel Club has recognized the Bluetick Coonhound, Boykin Spaniel and Redbone Coonhound as the 162nd, 163rd, and the 164th registered AKC breeds.

All three of the newly-recognized breeds are hunting and tracking dogs. The Boykin Spaniel will join the Sporting Group while both the Bluetick Coonhound and Redbone Coonhound will join the Hound Group.

"We are happy that Boykin Spaniel, Bluetick Coonhound and Redbone Coonhound will be joining the ranks of fully-recognized AKC breeds," said Mari-Beth O’Neill, AVP of Customer Service. "Although these breeds have been classified in two different groups, all three possess energetic natures and are still very actively used by hunters as working dogs today. After their long histories of development within the United States, we look forward to finally seeing these three breeds eligible to compete for AKC Conformation championships, as they have already been actively competing in AKC Companion Events and Performance Events."

For pictures and characteristics of the new breed, visit the AKC’s Web site.