January 25, 2012
Posted in Pet Supplies

More dogs are competing in this year's Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show than ever before, with six breeds debuting in the competition for the first time, The Associated Press reports.

In 1990, there were 142 eligible breeds, and the six new additions to this year's line up bring the total number of competitors up to 185, the news outlet reports. The Entlebucher mountain dog, is one new competitor, with an appearance similar to the Swiss mountain dog. This pooch is a native of Switzerland as well, but is the smallest of the American Kennel Club's Swiss breeds. Like it's cousins, it has a strong work ethic and is easy to train. Pet food such as Petcurean Go! Natural Grain Free Endurance Formula Dry Dog Food may be a good choice for this dog, which will stay active all its life. A supplement like Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet may also be good to protect its joints from wear and tear.

The Finnish Lapphund is a smaller breed, created for herding reindeer in parts of Scandinavia. This breed is thought to have existed for thousands of years, but only now is it being entered into the show because its popularity as a family pet in Finland. This pooch's long black coat may benefit from regular brushing with a Resco Pro-Series Combo Brush.

The Norwegian Lundehund, also known as the puffin dog, also hails from the cool climates of Scandinavia, and is known for hunting and retrieving puffins. This flexible, agile pooch is alert and cheerful, and may benefit from pet products like the Buster Food Cube to keep its mischievous streak in check.

The Xoloitzcuintli was previously known as the Mexican Hairless, and is the national dog of Mexico. Although they have served this important role abroad for years, their new-found popularity in America makes them eligible for this show now. Even hairless dogs need baths, and pet shampoo like oatmeal shampoo for dogs can be soothing on this pooch's skin. Hunters will be interested to see the Cesky terrier and the American English coonhound at this year's show.

Although these dogs have the novelty appeal because this is their first year in the show, the news source reports that they have plenty of competition from old standards like the Bichon Frise to win best in show. 

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