When we discuss the “most popular dog breeds,” we’re looking at which types of dogs people choose most often. It’s not just about which dogs look cute (although that’s part of it), but also other factors that make some breeds stand out more than others. These could include changes in how people live, what’s shown in the media, and trends over time. But what exactly makes a dog breed popular, and how are these rankings created? Let’s break it down.
Popularity among dog breeds usually reflects what people want and need at a certain time. For a breed to become popular, it usually means the dog fits well with how people live, has a good nature, and is easy to have at home. Learning about why some breeds are chosen more often helps us understand more than just their names-it tells us about how people live and what they value in a pet.
What makes a dog breed “popular”?
Popularity in dog breeds is about more than how they look. It’s about the traits of the dog, how those traits fit with what people want today, and how popularity is measured. This is usually done by official groups that keep records of registrations.
A popular dog breed is usually friendly, easy to train, can live in different types of homes, and has something about it that draws people in. To find out which breeds are truly popular, we look at data from well-known organizations that keep careful track of their numbers.
How do kennel clubs rank popular dog breeds?
Kennel clubs like the American Kennel Club (AKC) play a major role in tracking which breeds are popular. They keep detailed records and release yearly lists showing how many new dogs of each breed are registered. Every spring, the AKC puts out a new ranking based on the past year’s registrations.
These numbers only include purebred dogs registered with the club. This means that designer mixed breeds (like Goldendoodles) are not included. The AKC’s list lets us see which breeds people have been choosing most often over the years and how people’s choices change over time in the United States.
What factors affect a breed’s popularity?
Several things affect a dog breed’s popularity. Personality is very important; friendly and flexible breeds are almost always near the top. For example, the Golden Retriever is well-loved for being loyal and gentle, especially around children.
How easily a dog fits into a certain lifestyle also matters. More people are living in apartments, so breeds that are comfortable in small spaces, like the French Bulldog, have become very common. Other things like health, need for grooming, and how often a breed appears in movies or TV shows can also play a part. In the end, breeds that are easy to take care of and can mix well into family life tend to stay popular for years.
How has the list of most popular breeds changed over time?
The breeds people choose change over the years. Sometimes the most picked breed stays at the top for a while, then gets replaced by others. These changes can be influenced by things like where people live, what’s popular in the media, and changes in society.
Looking back, you’ll see trends: in some decades certain breeds were clear favorites, but those choices shift as culture and living situations change. Even movies and TV can make people want a specific kind of dog.
Which breeds were favorites in each decade?
The story of popular breeds in the United States is quite interesting. In the 1910s, the Boston Terrier was most popular, being the first American breed accepted by the AKC. The German Shepherd became popular in the 1920s, helped by movies starring Rin Tin Tin.
Boston Terriers were on top again in the 1930s, but by the 1940s, Cocker Spaniels took over. In the 1950s, thanks in part to the cartoon Snoopy, Beagles became number one. Poodles then became the most popular during the 1960s and 1970s. Cocker Spaniels returned in the 1980s, and from the 1990s through 2022, the Labrador Retriever held the top spot for an impressive 31 years-showing just how much people love Labs for their friendly, outgoing nature.
What changes have we seen recently?
In recent years, there have been some clear changes. After three decades at the top, the Labrador Retriever was passed by the French Bulldog in 2022, and the Frenchie has stayed number one through 2024. This shows how apartment-friendly, smaller breeds are now more appealing as more people live in cities.
The overall top five have remained the same since 2022-French Bulldog, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, German Shepherd Dog, and Poodle. Still, some other breeds have jumped up the rankings, like the Cane Corso, which moved from 47th in 2014 to 14th in 2024. Other breeds like the Kerry Blue Terrier and Bracco Italiano have gone up as well, showing that people’s tastes are broadening.
Why do some breeds gain or lose popularity?
Many things can make a breed go up or down in popularity. Changes in how and where people live are big factors-small, adaptable dogs are more popular in cities, while breeds that need big yards and lots of exercise are becoming less common in those areas. Media attention can also make people interested in a certain breed overnight. Health and general ease of care also matter, as people want dogs who fit into their lives easily.
Most popular dog breeds worldwide (2025)
By 2025, the most popular dogs around the world include both well-known old favorites and some newer stars. Rankings might be a little different depending on the source, but these breeds are usually recognized in the top spots regardless of location.
You’ll find family-friendly companions, active working dogs, and easy-to-keep small breeds high up on the list. Here’s a closer look at the main contenders.
| Rank | Breed | Main Qualities |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | French Bulldog | Great for apartments, affectionate, small size |
| 2 | Labrador Retriever | Friendly, energetic, excellent for families |
| 3 | Golden Retriever | Gentle, smart, good with children |
| 4 | German Shepherd Dog | Loyal, smart, good for service and protection |
| 5 | Poodle (Standard/Miniature/Toy) | Intelligent, hypoallergenic, easy to train |
| 6 | Bulldog | Calm, affectionate, good for small spaces |
| 7 | Beagle | Playful, good with kids, good sense of smell |
| 8 | Rottweiler | Protective, loyal, strong work ethic |
| 9 | Dachshund | Lively, bold, good for small homes |
| 10 | German Shorthaired Pointer | Active, smart, great for active people |
Labrador Retriever
Labradors are known for being friendly and energetic. They were long the number one breed in the U.S., now holding the second spot. They’re good for families, enjoy being active, and are often used as guide dogs, search and rescue, and for other types of work.
French Bulldog
The French Bulldog has become the most popular breed for three years in a row. Small size and adaptability to city life make them very popular in apartments. They are affectionate, easy to care for, and love to be close to people.
Golden Retriever
Ranking third, Golden Retrievers are loved for being gentle and easy-going. They’re smart, adaptable, and very loyal. They do well with kids and in service roles, like helping people with disabilities.
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are smart, confident, and brave. They make loyal family pets and are often used as police, guard, or service dogs. They need regular exercise and training, but reward owners with strong loyalty.
Poodle
Poodles, coming in three sizes, are known for being bright and easy to teach. Their coat is good for people with allergies. They are able to live in different types of homes and are active in dog sports and as pets.
Bulldog
Bulldogs remain popular, known for their unique look and calm, loving temperament. They like short walks and tend to prefer being indoors, making them good for small homes, but can have trouble with hot weather.
Beagle
Beagles are cheerful, friendly, and known for their excellent sense of smell. They’re good with kids and other animals, but need a safe yard because they love to follow their nose.
Rottweiler
Rottweilers are strong, confident, and love the families they live with. They need training and good socialization, but make wonderful companions and guard dogs for the right owners.
Dachshund
Dachshunds have long bodies and short legs. They’re playful, lively, and loyal but can be stubborn. They come in different sizes and coat types and are great for small homes.
German Shorthaired Pointer
This breed is lively, smart, and needs lots of exercise. They are a good choice for active people or families who like being outdoors.
Popular breeds by region and city
Popular breeds can change a lot from one region or city to another. Climate, how people live, and local preferences can all affect which dogs become favorites. What’s common in a big city may not be as popular in the country.
United States: top breeds in various cities
The national top five breeds-French Bulldog, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, German Shepherd Dog, and Poodle-are favorites almost everywhere, but cities often have their own trends. The French Bulldog is top in cities like Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York City, San Francisco, and Washington D.C., likely because they’re a good fit for apartment life.
In places like Boston and Seattle, Golden Retrievers are very popular, and cities like Raleigh and St. Louis have Labrador Retrievers as the local favorite. Some areas, like Detroit, even have protective breeds like the Rottweiler and Cane Corso high up on their lists. This shows how where you live can affect which dog breeds are most chosen.
Popular breeds in other countries
Outside the United States, different breeds are sometimes favored. For example, the Labrador Retriever often tops the lists in the UK, but English Cocker Spaniels and Springer Spaniels are also popular there because of local hunting traditions. In Italy, hunting dogs like the English Setter and German Shorthaired Pointer are among the top picks. In worldwide stats, breeds like the Chihuahua and Yorkshire Terrier are also frequently high on the list, showing how people everywhere have unique needs and tastes in dogs.
What makes popular breeds a good choice?
Popular breeds often have qualities that match well with what people want: some are best for families, others for apartments, and some fit especially well with active lifestyles. Here’s a quick look at which breeds are known for certain strengths.
| Trait | Good Choices |
|---|---|
| Family Friendly | Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Beagle, German Shepherd, Boxer, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel |
| Apartment Living | French Bulldog, Mini/Toy Poodle, Bulldog, Miniature Dachshund, Yorkshire Terrier |
| Active Owners | Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, German Shorthaired Pointer, Australian Shepherd |
Which breeds are best for families?
If you want a family dog, some breeds are well-known for being especially good with kids. Golden Retrievers are gentle, patient, and loving. Labrador Retrievers are outgoing and friendly. Beagles are cheerful and do well with both children and other pets. German Shepherds, with training, are very loyal and protective. Boxers are known for being playful and great with kids, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are gentle and sweet, ideal for younger children.
Best breeds for apartments
For apartments or small homes, the French Bulldog is a favorite. They are quiet, loving, and don’t need much space. Mini and Toy Poodles also do well-these dogs are smart and don’t shed much. Bulldogs enjoy staying indoors and keeping cool. Mini Dachshunds are playful and small, though sometimes stubborn. Yorkshire Terriers are little and don’t take up much space, and their coat is good for people with allergies.
Top breeds for active people
If you enjoy exercise or outdoor hobbies, breeds like the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, German Shepherd Dog, German Shorthaired Pointer, or Australian Shepherd will keep up with you. These dogs need regular activity and enjoy joining their owners on walks, hikes, or runs.
Health points to watch for in top breeds
Every breed can have certain health problems. Larger dogs like the Labrador or Golden Retriever may have joint problems. Responsible breeders try to check for these issues. French Bulldogs and Bulldogs can have breathing problems because of their head shape, and need to avoid too much heat. German Shepherds can also have joint issues. Dachshunds need careful handling to protect their backs. Poodles are usually healthy but can have some eye or bone problems. Always find a breeder who tests their dogs’ health to help your pet live a long, happy life.
Where is dog breed popularity headed?
Just like with other trends, which dogs are popular keeps changing. People’s choices are influenced by things like lifestyle shifts, the environment, and social media. While we can’t say for sure what the future holds, there are hints at what could become more common.
New breeds gaining fans
Some breeds are quickly becoming more popular. The Cane Corso, for example, has moved up quickly in the rankings. It’s attractive to those wanting a protective, loyal companion. The Kerry Blue Terrier has also become more common, known for its allergy-friendly coat. The Bracco Italiano, a skilled hunting dog, has moved up since joining U.S. ranks. These shifts show that people are open to trying new types of dogs beyond the usual choices.
The role of social media
Social media now makes a big impact on which breeds get attention. A fun video or a pet with a big online following can make people want a certain dog almost overnight. This can be good for showing people new breeds, but it also means some may jump into owning a breed without enough research. It’s always important to learn about a breed before getting one, instead of making a quick decision based on a trending video.
Questions people ask about popular breeds
When thinking about bringing home a dog, people naturally have questions, especially about the most popular breeds. Here are some of the common ones and their answers.
Which dogs are easiest to train?
Some breeds are generally quicker to learn than others. Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers are known for being easy to train and are a good choice for first-time owners. Poodles of all sizes pick up new commands fast and enjoy learning. German Shepherds are very smart but do best with firm, steady training. Miniature Schnauzers are also good for training. Most important is to use positive feedback, start early, and have patience.
Is a popular breed the best one for someone new to dogs?
Not always. Popular breeds are often chosen for good reasons, but what matters is whether the breed fits your lifestyle. For example, a French Bulldog is a top pick for apartment living but needs special care due to its breathing and heat issues. German Shepherds are popular but need lots of exercise and training. Before picking a popular breed, research what that breed needs and make sure it fits you and your home.
How do you find a good breeder or adoption agency?
To find a healthy and well-adjusted dog, it’s best to look for breeders or adoption groups with a good reputation. National breed clubs often give lists of responsible breeders who test their dogs for health problems. Good breeders are open about their dogs’ health, let you meet the puppy’s parents, answer questions, and focus on finding the right home, not making a fast sale.
For adoption, search local shelters or breed rescues. Good shelters provide medical care, do interviews, and check homes before adoption. They help you pick a dog that matches your lifestyle and help with the adjustment. Avoid buying from places that sell many breeds at once, pet stores, or anyone who won’t answer your questions, as these are often warning signs.
