Eight Most Popular Dogs

The American Kennel Club generates a yearly list of the most popular dog breeds. The list is based on registration statistics. The popularity of a certain breed may be due to such things as seeing it in a movie, on a dog show or being owned by someone famous. Whatever the reason, a popular dog does not always mean it will be a good pet for your family. Each dog has a unique set of characteristics that may not be appropriate for your lifestyle.

  1. Labrador Retriever

    • The Labrador retriever is a hunting dog that has held the number one spot for the last 20 years. This dog was originally bred in Newfoundland, working alongside fishermen retrieving nets and fish. Labradors are family-friendly dogs.

    German Shepherd

    • German shepherds are herding dogs that were originally bred in Germany as farm workers. Today, the police and military commonly use German shepherds for protection. This breed is strong, fearless and protective. German shepherds became popular many years ago because of the movie "Rin Tin Tin."

    Yorkshire Terrier

    • The Yorkie is a toy dog with a large personality. This brave little dog was originally bred in England to catch rats. The Yorkshire terrier has long, silky hair that requires lots of brushing. This dog travels well, making it ideal for a busy family.

    Beagle

    • The beagle is a hound that was originally bred in England to hunt rabbits. It is one of the oldest hound dog breeds. This breed initially became popular from Snoopy in the comic strip "Peanuts."

    Golden Retriever

    • Golden retrievers were originally bred in Scotland as hunting dogs. Today, it is commonly used as a guide dog or for search and rescue. This dog is a trusting, friendly and loves children.

    Bulldog

    • Bulldogs are strong, have a gentle disposition and form strong bonds with children. They were originally bred in Britain as fighting dogs. The short nose of this breed makes it prone to overheating in warm weather.

    Boxer

    • Boxers are powerful, intelligent and versatile. They were originally bred in Germany as hunters for large game such as wild boar or bison and would hold the animal down until the hunter arrived. Boxers are able to stand on their hind legs to battle an opponent. This dog requires very little grooming.

    Dachshund

    • Dachshunds were originally bred in Germany as badger hunters. This dog has a keen sense of smell. Dachshunds have three coat varieties: short-haired, long-haired and wire-haired. It is an adaptable dog to most living environments.