Top 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds

Every year, the American Kennel Club posts its dog registration statistics. This list shows how 164 AKC registered breeds are rated in order of popularity. The top 10 breeds may vary in the standings by areas of the country. The bulldog is a favorite in California, South Florida prefers the German shepherd, and in Providence, Rhode Island, the Labrador retriever does not even factor into the top five. These are, however, the top 10 breeds in order of popularity in 2009.

  1. Labrador Retrievers

    • Labrador retrievers have been rated No. 1 for 19 years in a row. AKC spokesperson Lisa Peterson attributes this widely held acceptance to their loyal and gentle nature. These dogs are friendly, lovable, smart and great with kids. They are easily trained and make excellent sporting companions.

    German Shepherds

    • The German shepherd is ranked the second most popular breed in the nation for the first time in more than three decades. Their increased popularity may be due to enhanced security efforts taking place in the United States and overseas. These very intelligent, beautiful dogs are loyal family pets, ideal companions and dependable K-9 partners when needed.

    Yorkshire Terriers

    • Yorkshire terriers are the smallest of the terrier breeds. Highly energetic, very protective and loyal to their families, these little dogs do not always get along well with strangers. They do, however, love to be close to their owners.

    Golden Retrievers

    • A golden retriever is extremely kind and gentle by nature and loves playing with people and their toys. These beautiful dogs are very affectionate, have excellent temperaments and are easily trained.

    Beagles

    • Beagles are often used by homeland security personnel because of their strong scenting ability. They have assertive hunter attitudes, but are also kind, gentle and love their families. Their loud barking and howling also make them great watchdogs.

    Boxers

    • Boxers are energetic, fun-loving, good with children, extremely loyal and low maintenance. However, because they can be very headstrong, they should have obedience training when they are young. These loyal and affectionate dogs love to be outdoors.

    Bulldogs

    • Bulldogs are unwavering and dignified, with lovable mellow dispositions. They form strong bonds with children, while being gentle and protective. These calm and composed dogs also have a strong sense of dedication to their families.

    Dachshunds

    • A dachshund loves to have fun and play. These dogs may be small, but they are very protective of their families. Originally bred to hunt badgers, they are fearless and have been known to nip at strangers and others dogs.

    Poodles

    • The poodle is a loyal and extremely intelligent dog. This popular breed is an excellent companion, easy to train and adapts to almost any type of residence. This an ideal companion for someone who does not have a lot of living space, as well as for someone with more spacious accommodations.

    Shih Tzu

    • The Shih Tzu breed is smart, obedient and loves to play. They are very energetic dogs that love to be around their people.