Americans love dogs! With over 90 million pet dogs in the United States, dogs are part of many households across the country. But when it comes to most popular dog breeds, which pups come out on top? Let’s explore what the data shows about America’s number one dog.
The Labrador Retriever Leads the Pack
According to the American Kennel Club, the Labrador Retriever has been the most popular dog breed in the United States for over 20 years. Labs top the list in registrations and make wonderful family pets with their friendly, outgoing personalities and enthusiasm for life.
Some key facts about the lovable Lab:
- Originated in Newfoundland, Canada as a working dog for fishermen
- Known as a smart, gentle and loyal companion
- Make great guide, service and therapy dogs
- Thrive when active; require daily exercise
- Shed moderately; weekly brushing advised
- Come in three colors: yellow, black and chocolate
It’s easy to see why Labrador Retrievers consistently rank #1 – they are adaptable, loving, energetic and make ideal family pets. Those traits keep leading people across America to welcome Labs into their homes year after year.
The French Bulldog is Gaining Ground
While the Lab tops the charts, the French Bulldog has skyrocketed in popularity over the past decade. Registrations for Frenchies have gone up over 6000% since 2003!
What accounts for America’s newfound love for the French Bulldog?
- Compact size makes them fit for apartment living
- Minimal shedding keeps grooming easy
- Loving, playful nature perfect for families
- Eager to please and highly trainable
- Distinctive bat ears and smushed faces endear them to many
While French Bulldogs have certainly found their way into America’s heart, they rank at #2 behind the still reigning Labrador Retriever when looking at AKC registrations.
Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds and Poodles Round Out the Top 5
Behind the top two breeds, the Golden Retriever holds down the #3 spot on the AKC’s list. Sweet, friendly and exuberant, the Golden continues to be a favorite for families seeking an outgoing canine companion. Goldens are true people pleasers, making them highly trainable.
Ranking #4 is the German Shepherd Dog. This intelligent breed is renowned for police and military service, but also shines as a devoted family pet. However, their strong guarding instincts do require proper socialization and training.
Finally, the Poodle comes in at #5, though toy and miniature sizes account for most Poodle registrations. Poodles excel in obedience training and agility and stand out as one of the smartest breeds according to canine experts. Their non-shedding coats make them an appealing choice for many pet owners.
Top 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds
While the top five breeds dominate much of the registration numbers, several other breeds have secured spots in the top 10. Here is the full ranking of America’s most popular dog breeds:
| Breed | 2020 Rank |
|---|---|
| Labrador Retriever | 1 |
| French Bulldog | 2 |
| Golden Retriever | 3 |
| German Shepherd Dog | 4 |
| Poodle | 5 |
| Bulldog | 6 |
| Beagle | 7 |
| Rottweiler | 8 |
| German Shorthaired Pointer | 9 |
| Yorkshire Terrier | 10 |
The Bulldog and Beagle push out the Dachshund and Boxer to take the #6 and #7 spots. Rottweilers and German Shorthaired Pointers traded places to land at #8 and #9. And the small but feisty Yorkshire Terrier holds onto the final spot in the top 10.
How Popular Dog Breeds Have Changed Over Time
America’s favorite dog breeds have certainly shifted over the past decades. For example, the Beagle did not even rank in the top 10 until the early 2000s. And as already highlighted, the French Bulldog has soared in popularity recently. To better understand how preferences in dog breeds have changed, let’s take a look at AKC’s top dogs over the decades:
| Decade | Top 3 Most Popular Dog Breeds |
|---|---|
| 1940s | Beagle, Cocker Spaniel, Boxer |
| 1950s | Beagle, Boxer, German Shepherd Dog |
| 1960s | Poodle, German Shepherd Dog, Beagle |
| 1970s | Poodle, Cocker Spaniel, Dachshund |
| 1980s | Dachshund, Poodle, Cocker Spaniel |
| 1990s | Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, German Shepherd Dog |
| 2000s | Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Beagle |
| 2010s | Labrador Retriever, German Shepherd Dog, Golden Retriever |
Some interesting trends emerge from the table. America’s preferences shifted away from smaller dogs popular in the 1940s-1960s towards more mid-sized family friendly breeds. Retrievers and German Shepherds stole the top spots starting in the 1990s. And while toy breeds like the Poodle and Dachshund once led registrations, today’s top 10 is dominated by larger canines.
What Qualities Make a Top Dog Breed?
When you look at the most popular breeds today, certain patterns emerge around why they earn top spots:
- Intelligence and trainability
- Adaptability to different living situations
- Friendly, outgoing personalities
- Patience with children
- Moderate exercise needs
- Affectionate and loyal
Breeds like the Labrador Retriever and Golden Retriever shine in many of these desired qualities. Labs and Goldens adore people, are highly intelligent, and are unflappable in temperament. German Shepherds and Poodles also check many of the boxes above.
However, every dog has unique qualities. So it’s important to research breeds thoroughly to find both a top dog and great pet match for your lifestyle and family.
Choosing America’s #1 Breed – What’s Important to You?
While the Labrador Retriever has clearly established itself as America’s top dog breed, popularity shouldn’t necessarily sway your personal breed selection. Every dog owner’s needs and preferences in a canine companion are different.
As you search for your perfect pup, consider these key factors:
- Activity level – can you meet exercise needs?
- Space for the dog – apartment vs house with yard
- Grooming requirements
- Shedding amount
- Size of the breed
- Your family’s lifestyle and daily routine
- Temperament – energetic vs laid-back
- Training difficulty
- Health issues common in the breed
- All members of household onboard with breed choice
Also meet potential breeds before adopting or purchasing a dog. Interacting with breeds directly gives you a clearer picture of their personality and needs.
While the Lab makes a wonderful pet for many, America’s most popular breed may not be the perfect match for you. Keep an open mind in your search for a furry family member.
Adopting a Mixed Breed
Looking beyond purebreds and considering mixed breeds also widens your options. Shelter and rescue dogs offer the chance to save a life while gaining a loving pet. And mutts tend to have fewer health issues than some purebreds.
Working with a shelter, discuss your lifestyle and preferences to find a mixed breed dog suited for you. You might just meet your perfect match of energy level, size, temperament and personality in a wonderful mixed breed.
Benefits of adopting a mixed breed include:
- Unique personality and looks
- Often less expensive adoption fees than purebreds
- Fur babies in need find loving homes
- May have less inherited health conditions
- You’re still getting a great pet without paying for pedigree
Expanding your search beyond America’s most popular purebreds can really pay off. Don’t overlook the amazing mixed breed dogs waiting to join your family!
Finding the Right Dog for You
The Labrador Retriever has clearly earned the title of America’s number one dog breed. But when choosing your own dog, go beyond what’s popular and find the canine companion that perfectly fits your home and lifestyle. Consider these final tips:
- Research breeds thoroughly before deciding
- Reflect on your family, activity level, living space
- Meet potential breeds before adopting
- Consider responsible breed rescues or shelters
- An open-minded search leads to the best match
- Opt for a dog who’ll be a great pet, not just a popular breed
- Remember: mutts make marvelous pets too!
Stay flexible in your quest for a furry friend. America’s top dog breed has staying power with good reason – the Lab is a fabulous family pet. But Labs aren’t perfect for everyone. Seek the canine companion destined just for you!
Conclusion
The Labrador Retriever has held the title of most popular dog in America for over 20 years. Labs are extraordinarily friendly, outgoing, intelligent and adaptable – perfect traits for beloved family pets. But America’s number one dog breed may not be the ideal choice for every dog owner. Carefully reflect on your needs and lifestyle as you search for a furry companion. Consider all options, including responsible breed rescues and shelters. And keep an open mind to find the wonderful dog destined to be your new best friend for years to come!