Meet the latest dog breed recognised by the American Kennel Club

Lex, a Lancashire heeler, sits at attention in Morristown, New Jersey, the United States. The heeler is the latest breed recognised by the American Kennel Club. The short-legged, long-bodied and rare herding breed is now eligible for thousands of US dog shows. Photo: AP/ Michelle Barlak

It's small in stature, big on activity and known for a “smile”, and it’s ready to compete with 200 other dog breeds.

Say hello to the Lancashire heeler, the latest breed recognised by the American Kennel Club. The organisation announced Wednesday that the rare herding breed is now eligible for thousands of US dog shows, including the prominent Westminster Kennel Club show.