Top 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds in America
The Most Popular Dogs in America
Most Popular Dog Breeds
Have you ever wondered what the most popular dog breeds in America are? Here is the top 10 list (statistics from the American Kennel Club). I have also included a little information on each breed, as well as their origin. See if your favorite dog breed is in the top 10.
Most Popular Dog Breeds in America
- Labrador Retriever
- German Shepherd
- Golden Retriever
- Beagle
- Bulldog
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Boxer
- Standard Poodle
- Rottweiller
- Dachshund
1. Labrador Retriever
Once again, the Labrador Retriever is rated as the most popular dog breed in America by the American Kennel Club. Originally from Newfoundland, the Labrador Retriever was initially used working alongside fisherman, helping them to pull in their fishing nets and catch fish that escaped from fishing lines. “Labs” as they are affectionately called, were bred primarily to act as game retrievers and are popular amoung bird hunters. They are very family friendly dogs and easily trainable, because of this they are excellent as guide dogs for the blind, as part of search-and-rescue teams or in narcotics detection with law enforcement. The Labrador Retrievers come in three colors - yellow, black and chocolate. They were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1917 and are included in the “Sporting" group.
2. German Shepherd
Originated in Karlsruhe, Germany in 1899. Originally they were used for herding and farm dogs. The German Shepherd is now thought of as the world's leading police dog, guard dog and military dog. They have consistently rated as one of the most popular breeds in the United States. The German Shepherd is also a loving family companion, being loyal and protective. They may be most colors, but the most common color is black and tan. The German Shepherd was recognized by the AKC in 1908 and are included in the "Herding" group by the AKC.
3. Golden Retriever
Originated in the Scottish Highlands in the 1800s and was used as a hunting dog. The Golden Retriever is an active and energetic breed, with a friendly temperament. They have a water-repellent double coat and love the water. The Golden Retriever makes a wonderful hunting companion and an ideal guide, assistance and search and rescue dog. Their beautiful golden-colored coat is can range from light to dark gold. The Golden Retriever was recognized by the AKC in 1925 and is included in the "Sporting" group.
4. Beagle
The origin of the Beagle is not certain. It is believed that they originated in England where English Gentlemen had packs of hounds. The larger hounds hunted deer and the smaller ones hunted rabbits. These are believed to be the first Beagles. They will make a “baying” sound when tracking or sometimes when they just want attention. They are very friendly and curious dogs. The most well known Beagle, is “Snoopy”, from the Peanuts comics. Beagles are small compact dogs with short, easy to care for coats. Beagles comes in two different heights (13 in. and 15 in.) and their colors include tri-color, red and white and lemon. They were recognized by the AKC in 1885 and are included in the "Hound" group.
5. Bulldog
Better known as the “English” Bulldog, is said to have originated in the British Isles. They became know as the “bull” dog as they were used to actually bait bulls. They had to be ferocious as well as brave and impervious to pain. When dog fighting became illegal in England, fans of this breed began breeding to eliminate the ferocious characteristic of these dogs and within a few generations they became loving pets with a good natured temperament. The Bulldog may be brindle, white, red, fawn, fallow or piebald. They are short legged, stocky dogs with short noses and an adorably wrinkled face. The Bulldog was recognized by the AKC in 1886 and are included in the "Non-Sporting" group.
6. Yorkshire Terrier
The “Yorkie” as they are affectionately called, is named for the English city of Yorkshire where they originated. Yorkshire Terriers were used in the nineteenth century to catch rats in clothing mills. They are brave for little dogs, energetic and curious. Their compact size makes them ideal for traveling with their owners. Yorkshire Terriers have long, silky coats that are blue and tan in color. They must have regular brushing, but seem to enjoy it. The Yorkshire Terrier was recognized by the AKC in 1885 and are included in the "Toy" group.
7. Boxer
This breed originated in Germany in the 19th century. Boxers were bred for dog fighting and hunting. They are powerful and intelligent dogs and were used by hunters to hold down larger prey while the hunter was in route. Boxers are known for standing on their hind legs and batting at their opponents with their front paws, thus the name of “Boxer”. They were popular in World War I and World War lI as guard dogs and couriers and became very popular dogs in the US after the war. The Boxer appears in both fawn and brindle colors. They were recognized by the AKC in 1904 and are included in the "Working" group.
8. Standard Poodle
Originating in Germany, the Poodle was used as a water retrieving dog. The “Poodle Cut” was actually designed by hunters to help the dog move through the water more efficiently. The tufts of hair that were left long were in significant areas where they were used as insulation for joints and vital organs against the cold. Some people think of Poodles as “sissy” dogs and not very smart. They are actually one of the smartest of the dog breeds and they excel in obedience training. Poodles can be a variety of solid colors, including white, black, apricot and gray, but are never multi-colored. The Poodle comes in standard, miniature and toy sizes. They were recognized by the AKC in 1887. The standard and miniature sizes are included in the "Non-Sporting" group and the toy size are included in the "Toy" group.
9. Rottweiller
It is believed that the Rottweiler originated from the Roman herding dogs. As the Romans were invading Europe, they kept herds of animals for their food supply. The dogs were used to keep the herd together and guard the food supply at night. As the need for their services diminished, the Rottweiler almost became extinct. Luckily in the early 1900’s a club was formed and established the standard breed. The Rottweiler is a very intelligent and powerful dog. Their high endurance and easy of training makes them exceptional guard, police and therapy dogs. They are also excellent cattle dogs. The Rottweiler’s coat is black with rust or mahogany markings. They were recognized by the AKC in 1931 and are included in the "Working" group.
10. Dachshund
Originating in Germany in the 1600s, the Dachshund were bred to hunt and dig out badgers. The word Dachshund means “badger dog” in German. They have a very friendly personality and a keen sense of smell. Known for their long, low bodies and elongated noses, they are excellent hunters for above ground as well as below. They come in a variety of colors and can be long haired, wire haired or smooth. The Dachshund were recognized by the AKC in 1885 and are included in the "Hound" group.
There are 175 different dog breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club and I am sure they are all one of man’s best friends!
Questions & Answers
© 2012 Sheila Brown
Comments
Sg.....I love all dogs. My entire family are dog (& cat) lovers. At one time or another, we've all had at least one of every breed on your list. Oh, but I'm so disappointed that my favorite breed is not listed. I have a special affinity for Border Collies. I'm also kind of fond of Cocker Spaniels...I think they are the cutest puppies in the world.
Thanks for a great and informative hub!..UP++
- AUTHOR
Hi Mary! I thought the reason for the "poodle cut" was really interesting myself.
A Yorkipoo is a new one for me, but I bet he is adorable! You should show us a picture someway!
This is one hub that really needs to be updated, I wish I had about 8 more hours in my day.
Thank you for stopping by, Mary and I hope you have a wonderful day!
I don't know how I missed this hub. I am a die hard dog lover. I knew most of what you said about all the dogs except for the reason for the poodle cut.
My son just got a Yorkipoo and it is, without a doubt, the cutest little dog I've ever seen. He's only six moths old but he's the friendliest little guy, but I digress.
Even though this hub is about the 2012 list, I have a feeling it is pretty close to what's still popular today.
Voted up, useful, and interesting.
- AUTHOR
Thank you Patricia! This is one hub that I need to update. Of all the dogs I have owned, I have never had a German Shepherd, but I know they are great dogs. We have a lab now, as a matter of fact, it is her picture that I used for the hub. She is getting on in years now, I will really hate to see her go, she has always been very protective of me. Thank you for stopping by and for the angels!
Well done, Sheila. I was not really much of a dog person ..we had a few dogs as I was growing up but I just never was much in to them for whatever reason (except for one) ...
Then my daughter asked if we could have a small dog, when my grandson was about 4. I relented and off to the shelter she went and she got a young dog, which was not small....a German Shepherd. and she became our loving and loyal and precious family member till her death at 15.
The list of dogs you have here is indeed a noble one...if another dog ever owns me, it will be the #1 pick on your list.
Voted up++++ and shared
Angels are on the way to you today ps
Those are all beautiful dog breeds. My favorite is the German Shepard, of which I have had a few during my life. - Interesting list.
- AUTHOR
Thank you Peggy! I am going to try to get back to writing here and being more active. :)
Came back to tell you that I am pinning this to my dogs board on Pinterest.
My hubby had a poodle that was very smart. He loved spaghetti, and when hubby was asked if he would like some spaghetti, the dog would go running and jumping on everyone and everything, so they started spelling spaghetti, and to soon he caught on. So the poodle is smart.
- AUTHOR
Hello manatita44. Yes, the poodle originated in Germany and were used as retrievers. The "poodle cut" was used to leave the hair thick on the area that covered the vital organs of the dogs, such as the heart, lungs and head area. These were the standard size poodles. The word "poodle" actually comes from the German word "pudel" which is short for pudelhund. Which basically means, dog that splashes in the water. I appreciate the share of information, I'm sure your friend will find this interesting. Thank you for your interest and share. Have a wonderful day! :)
- AUTHOR
Thank you manatita44! I'm so glad you found my article interesting. Dogs are truly man's best friend. They are the most faithful and loyal companions. Thank you for stopping by and commenting, it is truly appreciated! :)
"water retriever dogs? The "Poodle Cut" was to assist them in keeping warm while swimming in the cold waters of Germany, where they originated". Thanks. I will share this with my friend.
Interesting article on dogs. My favourite animal. Great info.
- AUTHOR
Hello manatita44! I'm glad you enjoyed my hub. I think the standard poodle is such a beautiful dog breed! Did you know that were originally used as water retriever dogs? The "Poodle Cut" was to assist them in keeping warm while swimming in the cold waters of Germany, where the originated.
Thank you for stopping by and commenting, it is always appreciated! :)
Nice reading about dogs. One of my friends is a dog-lover and has what looks like the Standard Poodle. Thanks.
- AUTHOR
Hi Pamela! We have a yellow lab now, her name is Sadie. Her picture is the first one on this hub. She is the most even tempered dog I have ever had. Very lovable, smart and won't let strangers get out of their car. ( I have to like that!) I'm so sorry you lost your lab, it is heartbreaking. I have also had several of these other breeds, but my two favorite would have to be the labs and the husky, which didn't make the list, oh well, we love her too! Thank you for stopping by and commenting, I always enjoy hearing from you! :)
This is a very interesting hub and my favorite dog I ever owned was a lab. I lost him during a surgery as he broke his shoulder jumping the gate when he was still young and feisty. That was really a heartbreak. I have had several others of those breeds during my life also. Great hub!
- AUTHOR
Hello Jo! I am so glad I have inspired you to write about your "girl"! I can't wait to read your new hub. I will try to offer some insight on what breed she may be, however, I am not an expert on dogs breeds. I think it is wonderful that she is a rescue and it sounds like she has a very loving home! Thank you so much for your wonderful comment and all your support, it is always appreciated! Have a wonderful day! :)
I had to tell you what a pleasure it was to read this. I am a dog/cat lover myself. I wish I could find out what breed our beautiful girl is. Thank you for the inspiration to write about her. And I hope when I complete it, you can offer some insight into what breed she may be.
She is a rescue, and she turns 3 yrs old this Aug. :-)
voted up +++ Shared & tweeted.
- AUTHOR
Hello Deborah-Diane! Our son has had 3 boxers, he just loves them. They are excellent dogs and so loving! My dad had a boxer, he always said it was the best and smartest dog he ever owned. Thank you for stopping in and your kind comment and votes! Have a wonderful day! :)
This is a great list of dogs and will be helpful for anyone who is trying to decide what kind of pet to get. Right now we are "dog sitting" for my daughter's boxer, and she is an excellent dog. Voted up as an awesome article!
- AUTHOR
Hi Rebecca! I'm glad you found my hub interesting. We have a yellow lab and a brown huskie. I think the lab is the smarter of the two. It's hard to tell as they are both so spoiled! I know she is the less stubborn! I may have to do a hub on the top 10 most intelligent dogs and see where they rate. Thanks for stopping by, commenting and the votes, I always enjoy hearing from you! Have a wonderful day! :)
I love dogs, so this was interesting to me. I have a lab and a part German Shepard that is super smart. I think they are listed as third smartest breed.. Thanks for sharing. Voted awesome and interesting!
- AUTHOR
Good morning carolina muscle! I think German Shephers are just awesome dogs, but I'm sorry to say, I have never owned one. I would have a hard time deciding on a favorite, but it would be between the Labrador Retriever and the Husky. Thanks for stopping in and commenting, it is always appreciated! Have a wonderful day! :)
I have always loved the temperament of German Shepherds, and have had several, but I think the Lab is still my favorite. Thanks for an interesting read !!!
- AUTHOR
Hi Deborah! We have a yellow lab, her name is Sadie. I agree they are great dogs and very intelligent! She is or house protector. If she doesn't know someone who comes up the drive, they won't be getting out of their car until we go outside and tell her it's ok. I really LOVE that! I feel very safe with her around. Thank you for stopping by and commenting, it is always appreciated! Have a wonderful day! :)
My first dog was a lab mix and she was the best, smartest dog ever (and, no, I'm not at all biased). : ) I'd love to get another lab some day.
- AUTHOR
Hello Indian Chef! I'm glad you enjoyed my hub. My mom and I raised pomeranians when I was a teenager, they are so, so cute! Hubby and I live in the country and have big dogs. We have yellow labrador retriever and a brown husky. A little dog out here would get eaten by a hawk or a coyote! Thank you for stopping in, commenting and voting! It is always appreciated! Have a wonderful day! :)
I love dogs. The dog sweetie was talking about was mine. Really loved reading about best dog breeds in USA. In India pomeranian and pugs are very popular too. Voting it up and beautiful.
- AUTHOR
Hi Debbie! I love German Shepherds too. They are very smart and very protective dogs! Thank you for stopping in and leaving such a lovely comment! Merry Christmas to you as well! :)
my favorite dog is the German Shepherd they are so loyal and loving. but you let someone mess with me or my family.. wow I feel sorry for the person.lol
great hub..
sharing
Merry Christmas
Debbie
- AUTHOR
Hi Susan! I just looked them up as I couldn't remember what they looked like. Wow! That's a big dog! They are beautiful though and look very sweet and gentle. Snuggle up to those puppies and you would stay plenty warm up there! Thank for stopping in and commenting, it is always appreciated! Have a wonderful day! :)
We have 2 Newfoundland dogs but I love all dogs big and small. I had a German Shepherd when I was growing up as well as Irish Setters.
- AUTHOR
Hello vespawoolf! I am a little apprehensive when I come across a rottweiler. Some time the owners train them to be aggressive as some do the pit bull. They are excellent dogs and excellent family dogs as long as they are owned by the right people. Bulldog puppies are just the cutest things when they are little!!! We currently have a yellow lab, who thinks she is still a puppy and a husky that doesn't even know she is a dog. Thank you for stopping in and commenting, it is always appreciated! :)
I've had friends at one time or another who have owned every one of these breeds! My husband's very partial to rottweiler and bulldogs. I think golden retrievers and labs are so cuddly. : ) Thank you!
- AUTHOR
Hi Nell! Golden Retrievers do look like they are smiling, don't they! LOL They are beautiful dogs. Thank you for your kind comment and vote. It is always appreciated! Have a great day! :)
Hi, my favorite is the golden retriever, they are known as the smiley dogs! lol! there is just something about them, but I love all dogs, so I am a bit biased! what a great hub! voted up! nell
- AUTHOR
Hello sweetie1! It is hard to keep a dog in an apartment, especially a larger breed dog. They really need room to run and play so they can get plenty of exercise. Perhaps you could see about getting a small breed dog. Thank you so much for your wonderful comment. I hope you have a wonderful day! :)
I love dogs but mom wont let a dog in our apartment. My best friend had German Shepard but she died at age of 4. She was very lovely and I do miss her a lot. You have written very nice hub on dogs and very well researched. Voting up and sharing.
- AUTHOR
Hello mperrottet! German Shepherds and beagles are both great dogs, I think beagles are so cute! You don't see many Old English Sheepdogs much anymore. I have always thought they were awesome dogs, but maybe hard to take care of with all that hair. We currently have a yellow lab and a Siberian Husky. They are both good dogs too. Most any breed of dogs are good dogs as long as they are treated right. Thank you for stopping in and commenting, it is always appreciated! Have a Happy Thanksgiving and be safe! :)
I had a German Shepherd and a beagle - both were great dogs. I currently have an Old English Sheepdog, and just love this breed. They used to very popular, but you don't see many of them today.
- AUTHOR
Hi Peggy! I thought this might be an interesting hub. I'm glad you liked it. My mom raised Pomeranians when I was younger. One of my favorite dogs was a Tea Cup Poodle that II had a Tea Cup Poodle for 14 years. I really miss her. Hubby and I had a black lab for a short time, he actually found us. I think you have read my hub on him, "God Sent us Jake - The Black Lab". He was such a good dog! My daughter and I rescued a long haired Dachshund at one time until he disappeard. We hope he finally found his way back home, he always seemed to want to "be on his way". We now have a yellow lab and a Husky. Huskys seem to be our favorite, we have had 4 now. Thank you for stopping in and leaving such a great comment and votes!! Have a wonderful day! :)
It is interesting to see which of the dog breeds are the most popular. My parents always favored the German Shepherds and they were all wonderful dogs. We have had several mixed breeds one of which had a good part black lab in her and one who had a good part golden retriever in him. Our other mixed breed was a United Nations. Ha! Our very first dog that my husband and I had was an Irish Setter and we now have my mother's last dog who is a Pomeranian. I see that those 2 breeds did not make the top 10 list. Oh well...not everyone can win the popularity contests! :)) Up and interesting votes.
- AUTHOR
Hello rajan! We have had the labrador retrienver, poodle and the dachshund. They were all very good dogs, each with a different personality. I am glad you enjoyed my hub. Thank you for your kind words and votes. Have a wonderful day! :)
Fine review of some most popular dog breeds. We have had a German Shepherd, a cocker spaniel and a black lab at different times. Learnt quite a bit from your informative hub, Sheila. Votes up, useful and interesting.
- AUTHOR
Hello moonlake! I bet your half Lab, half German Shorthair was a great dog. Those are both good breeds. I have heard of English Springer Spaniels, but have never owned one. I will have to look them up and learn more about them. We currently have a yellow lab who is 9 now. We also have a Siberian Husky who is about 5 now. Our daughter rescued her from life on a chain when she was about a half grown puppy. We have had 4 Huskies now. Thank you for your great comment and vote, it is always appreciated! Have a wonderful day! :)
We have owned only one half of one of the dogs in your pictures. He was half Lab and half German Shorthair. We love English Springer Spaniels. We have owned three. Enjoyed your hub and voted up.
- AUTHOR
Hello alocsin! The first picture on my hub is of our yellow lab, her name is Sadie. She likes to think of herself as a lap dog, but only her head will fit in my lap! They do love attention and are very affectionate and loyal dogs. Thank you for stopping in! I always appreciate your comments and votes. Have a wonderful day! :)
I can see why the labrador retriever is number one. My bro has had two so far, and they're quite affectionate and cuddly. Voting this Up and Interesting.
- AUTHOR
Hello Glimmer Twin! That's cool! I have heard of a labradoodle, but am not sure what they look like. Too bad you can't send a picture with the comment! I will look them up and at least get an idea of what they look like. Thank you for visiting and commenting, it is always appreciated! :)
Well we have one dog made up of 2 of the tops 10! Poodle & Lab, our labradoodle. Interesting hub!
- AUTHOR
Hi Peg! He name is Sadie, she is our yellow lab and I think she really was smiling! :) We had a black lab at one time, his name was Jake. Labs are really very good dogs, very affectionate , yet protective. Thank you so much for your wonderful comment and votes! It is always good to hear from you. Have a wonderful day! :)
- AUTHOR
Hi Carol! I love beagles too, they really are so cute, but they can really be noisy. Thank you for you wonderful comment and votes. I really appreciate you! Have a wonderful day! :)
Hello SGbrown. This immediately attracted my attention with the adorable picture right up front. It looks like he is smiling! We have a black lab now and he is indeed the perfect family pet: tolerant of everything, barks only when alerting of strange noise, affectionate, loves to be hugged and etc.. Have loved many of the others on the list too but they were all of dubious heritage being strays and rescues. Great information. Very interesting! Voted way up.
I love beagles..They are so cute. You did a great job on this hub of puppies. I love all dogs. Vote Up and thanks for sharing these photos.
- AUTHOR
Hello Faith Reaper! Jack Russells are very energetic dogs! Our Husky will get OCD over a new toy and carry it with her everywhere she goes, even when she eats, she will take it with her. She is so afraid our lab is going to get it, she won't lay it down except between her paws. Our dogs can be so crazy sometimes! Thank you for another wonderful comment, I do always enjoy hearing from you! Have an exceptionally wonderful day! :)
Currently, I have a Jack Russell, who is OCD about playing the ball, and I mean for hours on end, so we wind up having to hide it. LOL Oh, my three-legged dog never slowed down one bit and could run fast as lightening, and his legs were all so muscular.
Blessings. In His Love, Faith Reaper
I'm surprised to see the Rottweiller on your list of popular dogs. I have to vote for the Shih Tzu.
- AUTHOR
Hello Faith Reaper! Thank you! I have had several of these breeds as well. Currently have a yellow lab, she is about 8 now. Her name is Sadie. She really doesn't know she's a dog. When I was a teen-age, my neighbor had a 3 legged dog. I don't think it slower her down a bit. Thank you for stopping in, commenting and voting. I always enjoy hear from you. Have a wonderful day! :)
- AUTHOR
Hello Bill! Thank you! I currently have a yellow lab,Sadie. I also have a Husky, but they didn't make the top 10. Oh well, she is on my top 2 list! Thanks for stopping in and commenting, I always enjoy hearing from you! Have a wonderful day! :)
Great hub! I have had about six of those breeds over my lifetime, and the first is my favorite, as labs always remind me of my "sweet brownie boy" childhood, three-legged dog growing up.
Voted up
God bless. In His Love, Faith Reaper
Very interesting! We have two of those breeds eating dinner as I write this. :)
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