Top Ten Dog Breeds of the U.S.

According to The American Kennel Club's 2009 registration statistics, the top ten dog breeds in the United States include returning contenders, some making their way up the list and a few new additions. The bulldog is one of the newcomers, joining that perennial favorite the Labrador retriever---which has reigned supreme for 19 consecutive years. The list is quite varied, from dogs often found working for Homeland Security to the ones whose primary job is sitting on your lap.

  1. Labrador Retriever

    • Consistent winner of the prize for most popular breed, the gentle Labrador retriever is a working dog that enjoys having a job to do. They especially love retrieving hunted game and also make superb service dogs. The Lab loves children and is devoted to and protective of his family. The Lab comes in black, chocolate and yellow.

    German Shepherd

    • The German shepherd took over the Number 2 spot on the list of most popular dogs in 2009. The German shepherd is fiercely loyal and self-confident, and thrives in a family---but can be wary of strangers. The colors of the coat are commonly black and tan. She requires regular exercise and grooming.

    Yorkshire Terrier

    • The tenacious little "Yorkie" was unseated for the Number 2 spot this year. A favorite as a lap dog, the Yorkshire terrier was originally bred to chase down vermin. The breed moves fast and fits nicely into snug spaces. The Yorkshire terrier is persistent and does not give up easily. A member of the toy group, this dog's coat is silver and tan.

    Golden Retriever

    • Its origins in the Scottish highlands, the golden retriever was bred for hunting. Gentle, intelligent and devoted, the "golden" is the perfect fit as a family dog. She is protective and playful with the children of the family. The golden retriever comes in colors ranging from cream to dark gold.

    Beagle

    • The beagle, an English import, is happy and care-free, making him an ideal family dog. The beagle's coat is usually tri-color: white, lemon and reddish brown. This breed needs regular exercise to suit his curious, adventurous and energetic nature.

    Boxer

    • The boxer loves people and is a protective guardian of the children in the family. The boxer got its name from the way he'll stand up on his hind legs, batting at his opponent, appearing to box. Coat colors of the boxer are brindle, fawn and white. The breed requires minimal grooming but does need daily exercise.

    Bulldog

    • The bulldog is another new arrival on the most popular dog list. The affectionate, dignified bulldog likes to think of herself as a lap dog. The bulldog requires minimal grooming and exercise. This non-sporting breed adores children.

    Dachshund

    • A member of the hound group, the dachshund is native to Germany, where his name means "badger dog." The breed comes in colors of red, brown and black. The dachshund is playful and affectionate and fits well into family life.

    Poodle

    • The charming, playful and highly intelligent poodle is another breed native to Germany. A poodle love kids and often sees himself as one of them. This is one of the hypoallergenic dog breeds, so she will fit in well among allergy sufferers. Poodles need frequent grooming to prevent matting. Coat colors include white, apricot, black, brown and silver.

    Shih Tzu

    • The Shih Tzu is a courageous dog, despite his gentle, playful nature. A spirited, lively animal that loves children, the breed requires minimal exercise but must have frequent grooming to keep his long coat tangle-free. The Shih Tzu comes in colors of brown, red and black.