I'm not sure if there's something about releasing a breed that doesn't keep up some minimum of registrations or such over some time.
It must be very small, because the Wire-Haired Pointing Griffon should be long gone! (I saw ONCE a real, live WHPG and it was a "thrill" for me - I spoke at length to the owner/handler even as I was showing my young GS that day!)
There was one at the shows in West Palm Beach this year. I stopped them and admired him, as they are very similar to spinone. I don't think it has to do with registrations. Some breeds have very very few per year and AKC keeps them on. I've really never heard of them kicking anyone out. They all still generate SOME income for AKC! ;)
susie