Top 10 Dog Breeds in America

For 30 consecutive years, the American Kennel Club (AKC) has named the Labrador Retriever the most popular dog breed in the United States.  

While top dog breeds from past years' lists remain, there were two notable changes in the most recent list: the French Bulldog surpassed the German Shepherd to take over the number-two spot, and the fun-loving Dachshund cracked the top 10, ousting the Pembroke Welsh Corgi.  

The following is the most recent list of the top 10 dog breeds released by the AKC. Did your favorite make the cut? 

 

#1: Labrador Retriever 

The Lab makes its 30th straight appearance as the number one breed. And why not? This family-friendly, smart, and fun-loving breed is a favorite in households across America. Their desire to please and gentle disposition also help them excel as guide dogs and search-and-rescue dogs. 

Fun Fact: The Led Zeppelin song "Black Dog" was named after a Lab that was found wandering around the band's recording studio, according to Mental Floss. 

Learn more about the good-natured Labrador Retriever. 

#2: French Bulldog

All you need to do is look at the French Bulldog's happy, smiling face to understand why this breed has gained tremendous popularity over the past few years! Great dogs for apartment dwellers, French Bulldogs have mixed demeanors—sometimes they love to run and play, and sometimes they just want to lie around and be loved. They thrive on human contact and attention, so this isn't a breed to be kept alone for hours at a time. 

Fun Fact: Ironically, the French Bulldog originated in England. 

Find out more about the cheerful French Bulldog. 

#3: German Shepherd 

A true dog lover's pet, the German Shepherd is intelligent and hardworking. This breed enjoys participating in outdoor activities for dogs and needs lots of mental & physical stimulation to remain at peak performance. With a poised and courageous demeanor, it's no wonder German Shepherds are often trained to assist the police, the military, and other service organizations.  

Fun Fact: There are only three dogs on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and two of them are German Shepherds (Rin Tin Tin and Strongheart), according to the Los Angeles Times. 

Read on about the loyal German Shepherd.  

#4: Golden Retriever 

Ah, the classic Golden Retriever! A very athletic and highly trainable dog breed, the Golden Retriever is another family-friendly pet with a fantastic demeanor. Because they love to run and play, they're a great fit for families with young children. As skilled workers, Goldens are popular hunting companions, guide dogs, and search-and-rescue dogs. 

Fun Fact: The first-ever image uploaded on Instagram was a photo of a Golden Retriever, according to TIME.  

Discover more about the endearing Golden Retriever. 

#5: Bulldog 

The Bulldog has a wrinkly face and an extremely lovable disposition. They make great companions and are very calm compared to the other most popular dog breeds on this list. Adaptable and docile, Bulldogs do not need a ton of exercise; these laidback dogs prefer to stay home and relax with their pet parents most of the time. 

Fun Fact: The Marine Corps adopted the Bulldog as its mascot after World War I, according to the AKC. 

Learn more about the tenacious Bulldog. 

#6: Poodle 

Poodles are known for making regular appearances in dog shows. Their elegant form never goes unnoticed, but their personalities are just as charming as their looks. While sometimes reserved, puppy socialization can help this breed become quite confident. They're smart, easy to train, eager to please, and lots of fun to be around. Plus, Poodles come in three different varieties—Toy, Miniature, and Standard—and are known to adapt well to different lifestyles. 

Fun Fact: Ancient Romans carved Poodle-like dogs on tombs as early as 30 AD, according to Dummies. 

Read more about the kindhearted Poodle. 

#7: Beagle 

Conveniently sized with short, low-maintenance coats, the Beagle is a smooth-coated dog breed that's both peaceful and cheerful. They do require some exercise, so a fenced-in yard is an ideal setting for them. A hunting breed with great curiosity, these hounds enjoy exploring and keeping their noses active. 

Fun Fact: Beagles' white-tipped tails make them easier to see and track through the woods, according to Embrace Pet Insurance. 

Gain more knowledge on the merry Beagle.  

#8: Rottweiler 

Large and powerful, Rottweilers are sometimes misunderstood because of their stature. However, they are actually one of the most intelligent dog breeds—easy to train and willing to work. Their broad chests and muscular bodies stand out, but Rottweilers have even bigger hearts and make for devoted companions. 

Fun Fact: As trains took over this breed's job of transporting cattle to market, Rottweilers almost became forgotten in the 19th century, according to Rottweiler Hub. 

Find out more about the fearless Rottweiler. 

#9: German Shorthaired Pointer 

One of the best active dogs for active families, the German Shorthaired Pointer is an enthusiastic outdoor-loving breed that needs plenty of exercise. They are considered jacks of all trades when it comes to dog sports and competition. Lighthearted and affectionate, German Shorthaired Pointers are friendly people-pleasers with a distinguished appearance that often feature spots or "ticking." 

Fun Fact: All German Shorthaired Pointers are born white with liver-colored patches. As they mature, they may become a solid liver color or their coat may fill in with various shades of liver ticking, according to Hound Games. 

Uncover more information on the eager German Shorthaired Pointer. 

#10: Dachshund 

Among the United States' top 10 dog breeds for the first time, Dachshunds are vivacious dogs known for their long bodies, short legs, and bold character! Lovingly referred to as wiener dogs, this comically shaped, social breed is inquisitive about everything and enjoys taking relaxed walks. Dachshunds also have a keen sense of smell that can distract them during training; patience, persistence, and positive reinforcement are key! 

Fun Fact: It is believed that the first hot dogs, called "dachshund sausages," were sold by a German immigrant out of a food cart in New York in the 1860s, according to Culture Trip. 

Learn more about the outgoing Dachshund. 

America's Favorite Furry Friends 

Whether your preferred pooch made the top 10 dog breeds list or is an up-and-comer, you'll be happy to know that all sorts of dogs occupy millions of homes and hearts in the United States. Plus, the most popular dog breeds get updated annually, so there's always next year! 

Curious about some of the lesser-known furry friends? Check out our list of 10 rare dog breeds to learn more.