Most popular dog breeds | Money

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A dog’s breed can determine certain personality traits and health conditions, which is why breed is a factor that helps determine the cost of pet insurance. But what are the most popular breeds in the United States and why?

Here’s a look at the most popular dog breeds, along with the stats and characteristics of each.

Summary

20 Most Popular Dog Breeds in the United States

While Labrador retrievers have been the most popular dog for the past 31 consecutive years, French bulldogs have risen to first place in the most recent American Kennel Club (AKC) dog breed popularity rankings. These rankings are based on AKC registration statistics of the 200 breeds recognized by the organization.

Here is a list of the 20 most popular breeds with statistics from the AKC. Keep in mind that not all characteristics of a dog are based on its breed. All dogs are unique and may vary from the trends described below.

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1. French Bulldog

There’s no denying that French bulldogs are adorable, but they also have many other characteristics that make them a favorite dog breed. They tend to be playful, fun and good with children and other dogs.

For these and other reasons, we also consider Frenchies to be one of the best apartment dogs.

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2. Labradors

The ever-popular Labrador Retriever has three coat shades: yellow, chocolate and black. These dogs love to play and be outdoors, so they require plenty of daily exercise. They are easy-going but intelligent. Therefore, Labs are a popular choice for working dogs, including search and rescue and service dogs.

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3. Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is the infamous family dog. When you think of a Golden, you probably think of a friendly, happy-go-lucky pet. Other than that, it is another popular working dog because it is reliable and obedient.

Goldens are known for their beautiful, soft double coat. They shed their undercoat heavily once or twice a year and experience moderate shedding during the rest of the year.

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4. German Shepherd

The German Shepherd is a graceful, large dog known for heroic inclinations and intelligence. It’s no wonder they are a common police dog. Additionally, many families choose this breed for its loyalty and willingness to keep their family safe.

Depending on genetics and the breeder, German Shepherds are prone to certain hereditary health conditions, such as hip dysplasia.

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5. Poodle (standard)

Poodles are bright and highly trainable. The breed is also widely used in mixed breeds. In fact, some poodle mixes are even more popular than the purebred dogs on this list, such as the golden doodle (golden retriever + poodle), cockapoo (cocker spaniel + poodle), and Labradoodle (lab + poodle).

Aside from the standard size, poodles come in miniature and toy sizes from four to six pounds.

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6. Bulldogs

Unmistakable for its stocky build and wrinkled muzzle, the bulldog is a relaxed and adorable, sometimes stubborn breed. In fact, they can make great family members. However, due to their genetics, bulldogs require a carefully monitored diet and regular exercise. They can overheat easily, so they should spend limited time outdoors in the heat.

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7. Rottweiler

Rottweilers are beloved protectors with strong, muscular builds. Their coat is predominantly black with tan markings around the face, chest and legs. Rotties’ loyalty to their family can make them a great family pet, but they must be carefully socialized and trained, ideally starting when they are puppies.

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8. Beagle

The beagle has long been considered a great family pet, friendly and getting along well with others. True to the nature of hunting dogs, beagles are curious explorers. They can also be very vocal and howl if left alone.

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9. Dachshund

Dachshunds – also called “Weiner dogs” – have long bodies with short legs. While they are adorable, their build makes them prone to back problems, so running up stairs and jumping on furniture should be limited. This adorable dog breed also comes in various colors and coat types, including smooth, wire, and long coats.

Dachshunds were originally bred to hunt badgers, which explains why many love to dig. They are also courageous and not afraid to assert themselves.

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10. German Shorthaired Pointer

As a hunting dog, the German Shorthaired Pointer is athletic and energetic. They require a lot of physical activity every day to avoid boredom. These friendly dogs can also be great with active families who love the outdoors. However, due to their hunting instinct, you have to be careful around them around small pets.

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11. Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Welsh corgis are charming and affectionate. They are a herding breed, so they tend to be active, confident and fearless. If left alone for too long or they sense danger, corgis tend to bark a lot. But overall, corgis make excellent, loving pets.

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12. Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds are famous for their gorgeous coats and intelligence. Being a very energetic dog, they require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. After all, they are herding dogs, so they tend to be protective of their home and family.

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13. Yorkshire terriers

The Yorkshire terrier is a small, cheeky breed that loves to be spoiled. Because of their luscious coat, Yorkies require proper grooming, especially if their hair is kept long. These small dogs can also get cold easily.

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14. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Their gentle and easy-going demeanor makes the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel so popular. They are an easy pet to have. Not to mention, they are adorable and great with kids and other pets.

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15. Doberman

Another strong breed that is popular to have as a pet is the Doberman Pinscher. They have similar coloring to Rottweilers, but you can differentiate them by the leaner face and build of Dobermans. With proper training and socialization, Dobermans can be loving companions.

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16. Boxer

The boxer is a classic dog with a muscular build and a square, wrinkled face. They are popular pets who love adventure. Boxer dog owners need to make sure their dog gets enough exercise because they tend to have a lot of energy.

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17. Miniature Schnauzer

The term “schnauzer” is quite an appropriate name for this dog because in German it roughly translates to “whiskers”. These dogs can be courageous and confident in nature. They may be smarter than you, but they are very friendly and willing to train.

The AKC recognizes two other sizes of schnauzer as separate breeds: the giant schnauzer and the standard schnauzer.

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18. Cane Corso

As one of the largest dog breeds, the Cane Corso is a powerful and muscular breed. They may have protective guard dog instincts; the name roughly translates to “bodyguard dog” in Latin. This assertive and stubborn dog can do best with a confident owner and firm boundaries. However, Corsicans tend to be intelligent, loyal, and eager to please.

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19. Great Dane

Great Danes are commonly called “gentle giants,” and for good reason. Their enormous size makes them intimidating, but they are often very affectionate and good with children. Ownership requires a solid commitment to the needs of such a large dog, especially if this is your first time owning a large dog.

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20. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are adorable, small pets that can live a long time. They have average energy levels but love to be mischievous. They are also very adorable and friendly, so they will do well with small children and other dogs. Additionally, the Shih Tzu is one of the best apartment dogs.

Less popular dog breeds

The following list contains the least popular dog breeds recognized by the AKC:

1. English Foxhound
2. Norwegian Lundehund
3. Sloughi
4. American Foxhound
5. Belgian Laekenois
6. Azawakh
7. Hen Harrier
8. Sussex Spaniel
9. Czech Terrier
10. Pyrenean Shepherd