The world’s most popular dog breeds
The world’s most popular dog breeds
Dogs share a bond with humans like no other animal on earth. For us fur parents, our four-legged companions mean everything to us. We share this sentiment with millions of other dog owners around the world.
With dogs being the most popular pet, it’s no surprise that there are over 300 different breeds recognized by various kennel clubs. This number continues to grow as new breeds are created through crossbreeding.
Yet, with many options, there remains a small group of breeds heralded as the most popular in the world – some of which are centuries old.
Popular dog breeds tend to have things in common such as positive personalities, family-friendly attributes, long lifespans/healthy reputations and more. It is also common for people to look for low maintenance breeds when choosing a dog and in some cases appearance plays a factor as well.
Most Popular Breeds in the World
Now we’re counting down our picks for the most popular breeds in the world, starting from the tenth spot.
10. Poodle
This popular pooch is available in three different sizes – standard, miniature, and toy. But they all share the same curly coat that doesn’t shed much. Poodles are also highly intelligent and easy to train. As a result, they’re often used in dog sports and as service dogs.
9. Beagle
Beagles are irresistibly adorable, yet they have a hunting background. These pups have an excellent sense of smell, making them ideal for stuff like detection tasks and search and rescue. But what makes beagles popular is their laid-back personality. We all know Snoopy, the most famous beagle in the world!
8. Boxer
The Boxer has German origins. The breed owns about 3.5% of worldwide registrations, which deserves a place on this list. Boxers have an intimidating appearance, but they’re just big softies. Ironically, they should be on the top half of this list if the sole criterion is their personality since they have quite the patience to keep up and tolerate kids. That alone makes them one of the most popular dogs around.
7. English Bulldog
The English Bulldog is a national icon in the United Kingdom. But this breed’s popularity has transcended borders, becoming one of the most beloved dogs of all time. Bulldogs have a gentle and affectionate personality, which is ideal for families with small children. Although they’re expensive, the truth is they don’t require a lot of grooming and maintenance. Well, you just have to deal with their snoring.
6. Dachshund
Meant to be bred to hunt rabbits and rodents, Dachshunds unexpectedly became one of the most iconic breeds because of their unique and quite funny appearance. The long body and awfully short legs make them look dachshunds like they’re always running. They’re also among the most popular dogs in the US, with over 600,000 registrations annually.
5. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers are a hypoallergenic breed, which makes them perfect for people with allergies to dogs but who still want to experience the joys of owning a furry friend. Don’t be deceived by the dog’s small stature – Yorkies are tenacious and feisty. They were originally bred to go down into badger holes, after all.
4. German Shepherd Dog
This German Shepherd Dog perfectly represents an “iconic” breed. They’ve been used extensively in popular culture, often as a loyal and courageous canine companion. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and easy to train. They excel in various dog sports and working roles such as law enforcement, security, and search and rescue.
3. Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is arguably the most sought-after family dog. They’re gentle, obedient, and intelligent. Goldens are also one of the easiest breeds to train, too. They were originally bred to be hunting dogs, but their endearing personality quickly made them suitable as family pets. No wonder they’re one of the most recognized furry buddies.
2. French Bulldog
The American Kennel Club lists this outrageously adorable breed as the second most popular in the United States. The Frenchie’s popularity can be attributed to their comical appearance, easy-going temperament, and low exercise needs, to name a few. They’re also relatively easier to take care of since they don’t require a lot of grooming.
We’re naming it the runner-up, and deservingly so. Frenchies may not be as versatile as the German Shepherd or as iconic as the Golden Retriever, but their undeniably lovable personality and great looks make them the perfect first-time pet for many people.
And the most popular dog breed is…
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever has been AKC’s most popular breed since 2013. Owning about 13% of registrations worldwide, it’s not hard to see why the Lab is on top. They’re gentle and highly intelligent – two attributes that make an ideal pet. Also, Labrador Retrievers come in a handful of different sizes, coat colours, and types. Not all breeds in this list offer this versatility.
Memorable dog films like the “Old Yeller” and “Marley and Me” also helped increase the Labrador Retriever’s popularity.
So, do you own one of these dog breeds on our list? If not, then you sure know somebody who does. And perhaps you’ll adopt one yourself.
