AKC Reveals 25 Most Popular Dog Breeds in the US

Dogs have been man’s best friend for centuries, providing companionship, security, and loyalty to their owners. With so many different dog breeds to choose from, it can be overwhelming when deciding which one will be the perfect fit for your family. In the United States, certain breeds tend to be more popular than others. The American Kennel Club (AKC) used registration data to compile a list of today’s most popular breeds.

Whether you’re looking for a loyal guard dog or a playful companion for your children, this blog post will highlight some of the most popular dog breeds in the US and what makes them so beloved among pet owners. Many will be no surprise to you. After all, the No. 1 breed has been the same for over 30 years! But there are others that we expect will come as a shock. Let’s talk dogs!

Havanese

Originating from the extinct Blanquito de la Habana breed, the Havanese a bichon-type dog breed and holds the title of being Cuba’s national dog. Its roots can be traced to the Bichón Tenerife, another now-extinct breed. Havanese are also excellent watchdogs who take the job seriously but usually keep the barking to a minimum.

Pomeranians

The Pomeranian, a Spitz-type dog breed, derives its name from the Pomerania region in north-west Poland and north-east Germany within Central Europe. Due to its diminutive size, it is categorized as a toy dog breed but originates from larger Spitz-type dogs such as the German Spitz. Pomeranians are a lively breed, but they can exercise through indoor play and brief walks, making them well-suited for city and suburban living. They excel at learning tricks and games, but their main delight is being a source of amusement and companionship to their beloved human.

Boston Terriers

The Boston Terrier is a vivacious and charming companion, distinguished by its sleek tuxedo coat, sporty yet compact physique, and the amicable sparkle in its big, round eyes. Its decorous demeanor has earned it the moniker “The American Gentleman.” These little dogs are well-proportioned and weigh no more than 25 pounds. Their fashionable “tuxedo” coats can be black, brindle, or seal (dark brown) against a white background. The head is square with a short muzzle and large, round eyes that exude kindness, curiosity, or mischief.

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are a beloved toy dog breed that has been adored for centuries. Originating in China, these dogs were bred to be companions and lapdogs for royalty, and they have retained their charming and affectionate personalities to this day. Shih Tzus are known for their long, silky coats that require regular grooming, but their gentle nature and playful demeanor make them wonderful family pets. They are typically small in size with a distinctive flat face and large round eyes. Shih Tzus are intelligent and quick learners, making them easy to train for tricks or obedience.

Cane Corso

Cane Corso dogs are a large and powerful dog breed that was originally bred in Italy for guarding and hunting purposes. They are known for their muscular bodies, athletic abilities, and protective instincts. Cane Corsos can weigh between 90-120 pounds and stand up to 27 inches tall at the shoulder. Their short, thick coats come in various shades of black, gray, fawn, or red. While they may look intimidating, Cane Corsos can be loyal and affectionate with their families. However, they require early socialization and training to prevent aggression towards strangers or other animals. With proper care and attention from their owners, Cane Corsos can make excellent companions for experienced dog owners who appreciate their strength and protective nature.

Bernese Mountain Dogs

Bernese Mountain Dogs are a large and beautiful dog breed that originated in Switzerland. They were originally bred as working dogs for farmers, but today they are often kept as family pets due to their gentle nature and loving personality. Bernese Mountain Dogs can weigh up to 115 pounds and stand up to 27 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a distinctive tri-colored coat that is thick and soft, with shades of black, white, and rust. Despite their size, Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for being good-natured and affectionate with their families. They enjoy spending time outdoors and make great hiking or camping companions. However, they do require regular exercise and grooming due to their thick coats.

Siberian Huskies

Siberian Huskies are a medium-sized dog breed that originated in Northeast Asia. They were originally bred as sled dogs and are known for their endurance, strength, and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. Siberian Huskies have a thick double coat that comes in various colors, including black, white, gray, or a combination of these. They have bright blue or brown eyes that give them an alert and intelligent look. Despite their working background, Siberian Huskies make great family pets due to their friendly nature and loyalty toward their owners. However, they do require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

Miniature Schnauzers

Miniature Schnauzers are a small dog breed that originated in Germany. They were originally bred as ratting dogs, but today they are often kept as family pets due to their affectionate and loyal nature. Miniature Schnauzers have a distinctive appearance with their wiry salt-and-pepper coat, bushy eyebrows, and beard. They are intelligent dogs that can be easily trained, making them great companions for families with children or other pets. Miniature Schnauzers are friendly, playful dogs that make great companions for those looking for a small but spunky pet.

Great Danes

Great Danes are a giant dog breed that originated in Germany. They were originally bred as hunting dogs and later became popular as guard dogs due to their imposing size and deep bark. Great Danes have a short, smooth coat that comes in various colors, including brindle, fawn, black, or blue. They have a gentle nature and are known for their patience with children, which makes them great family pets. Despite their large size, Great Danes are often described as “gentle giants” due to their calm and affectionate demeanor.

Doberman Pinschers

Doberman Pinschers are a medium-sized dog breed that originated in Germany. They were originally bred as guard dogs and have a reputation for being fiercely protective of their owners. Dobermans have short, sleek, usually black or brown coats with rust-colored markings. They are highly intelligent and easily trained, making them great companions for owners willing to put in the time and effort to socialize and train them properly. Despite their tough exterior, Doberman Pinschers are also known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners. However, they require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are a small dog breed originating in the United Kingdom. They were originally bred as lap dogs for royalty and have since become popular family pets due to their affectionate nature and adorable appearance. Cavaliers have long, silky coats in various colors, including black and tan, ruby, and tricolor. They are known for their sweet temperament and love to be around people, making them great companions for families with children or seniors looking for a loyal companion. Cavaliers are also intelligent and trainable but require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and prevent matting.

Boxers

Boxers are a popular dog breed known for their muscular build, short coat, and playful personality. Originally bred in Germany to be working dogs, Boxers are now commonly kept as family pets due to their loyalty and affectionate nature. They are highly energetic and require regular exercise to stay healthy and content. Boxers are also known for being excellent with children, making them a great choice for families. Despite their tough appearance, Boxers have a sensitive side and thrive on human interaction and attention.

Yorkshire Terriers

Yorkshire Terriers, or “Yorkies” as they are often called, are a small dog breed that originated in Yorkshire, England. They are known for their long, silky coats and spunky personalities. Despite their small size, Yorkies are brave, confident dogs that make excellent watchdogs. They are also highly intelligent and easy to train, making them popular for obedience competitions. Yorkies are loyal and affectionate towards their owners but can be wary of strangers. Due to their small size and low exercise needs, they make great pets for apartment dwellers or those with limited outdoor space.

Australian Shepherds

Australian Shepherds, also known as “Aussies,” are a medium-sized dog breed that originated in the Western United States. They are highly intelligent and energetic dogs that were originally bred to work on ranches and farms herding livestock. Aussies have thick, weather-resistant coats with distinctive markings and come in various colors. They are known for their loyalty and protective nature towards their owners, making them excellent watchdogs. Aussies require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy, which can include activities such as hiking, agility training, or participating in herding competitions. Due to their high energy levels, they may not be the best fit for people who live in apartments or have limited outdoor space.

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Pembroke Welsh Corgis

Pembroke Welsh Corgis, or simply “Corgis,” are a small dog breed originating in Wales. They are known for their short, stubby legs and long bodies, which give them a unique and adorable appearance. Corgis are highly intelligent dogs that were originally bred to herd livestock. Despite their small size, they have big personalities and are known for being outgoing and friendly with people and other animals. Overall, Pembroke Welsh Corgis make great family pets due to their affectionate nature and playful personalities.

Dachshunds

Dachshunds, also known as “Wiener dogs,” are a small dog breed originating in Germany. They are characterized by their long, low bodies and short legs, which were originally bred for hunting badgers and other burrowing animals. Dachshunds come in two sizes: standard and miniature, and they have a variety of coat types, including smooth, wire-haired, and long-haired. They are intelligent dogs that can be stubborn at times but make loyal companions to their owners. Due to their hunting background, Dachshunds have a strong prey drive and may not do well with smaller pets unless properly socialized. They make for excellent furry friends!

Pointers (German Shorthaired)

German Shorthaired Pointers, commonly known as Pointers, are a medium to large-sized dog breed originating in Germany. They were originally bred for hunting and have a strong prey drive and an excellent sense of smell. Pointers are highly intelligent, athletic dogs that require regular exercise to maintain good health and prevent boredom. They have a short, dense coat that comes in various colors, including liver, black, and white, with distinctive spots or patches. Pointers are loyal dogs that make great family pets due to their affectionate nature and eagerness to please their owners. They may be reserved with strangers but typically get along well with other animals if properly socialized.

Rottweilers

Rottweilers are a large dog breed that originated in Germany. They were originally bred as herding dogs and have since been used as police and military dogs due to their intelligence, strength, and loyalty. Rottweilers have a short, thick coat that is typically black with distinctive rust-colored markings on their face, chest, and legs. They are powerful dogs that require proper training and socialization from an early age to prevent aggressive behavior towards strangers or other animals. However, when raised and trained properly, Rottweilers make excellent family pets due to their loving nature and protective instincts toward their owners. They are highly trainable dogs for tasks such as search and rescue or therapy work

Beagles

Beagles are a small to medium-sized dog breed that originated in England. They were originally bred for hunting and have an excellent sense of smell, which makes them ideal for tracking game. Beagles have short, smooth coats. They are friendly dogs that make great family pets due to their affectionate nature and love of human company. Beagles are highly energetic dogs that exercise regularly to maintain good health and prevent boredom. They may be prone to barking or howling if left alone for long periods of time, so they do best with owners who can provide them with plenty of attention and exercise.

Bulldogs

Bulldogs are a medium-sized dog breed that originated in England. They were originally bred for bull-baiting, but over time their temperament was selectively bred to be more docile and friendly. Bulldogs have short, smooth coats that come in various colors. They are known for their distinctive wrinkled faces and pushed-in noses. Bulldogs are affectionate dogs that make great family pets due to their gentle nature and love of human company. They do well with children and other pets when properly socialized from an early age. Bulldogs are not highly energetic dogs and do not require as much exercise as some other breeds, but they still benefit from regular walks or playtime to maintain good health.

Poodles

Poodles are a dog breed that originated in France. They come in three sizes – standard, miniature, and toy – and have a curly or corded coat that is hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for people with allergies. Poodles are highly intelligent dogs and are often used for activities such as obedience training, agility competitions, and hunting. They have a playful and affectionate nature, making them great family pets. Poodles require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and free from mats or tangles. They also benefit from regular exercise to maintain good health and prevent boredom.

German Shepherd Dogs

German Shepherd Dogs, or GSDs, are a large and highly intelligent dog breed originating in Germany. They were originally bred for herding and guarding livestock but have since become popular as police, military, and service dogs due to their intelligence, loyalty, and trainability. German Shepherds have a distinctive appearance with a muscular build and a thick coat that comes in various colors. They are known for their courage and protective nature, making them great watchdogs. However, proper socialization is important to prevent aggression towards strangers or other animals. German Shepherds require regular exercise to maintain good health and prevent boredom. They also benefit from mental stimulation, such as training exercises or puzzle toys to keep their minds sharp.

Golden Retrievers

Golden Retrievers are a beloved dog breed known for their friendly, loyal, and affectionate nature. Originally bred in Scotland for retrieving game birds, they have since become popular as family pets due to their gentle temperament and willingness to please. Golden Retrievers are medium to large dogs with dense and wavy coats that come in shades of gold. They require regular grooming to prevent matting and shedding. Golden Retrievers are intelligent and highly trainable, making them great candidates for obedience training, agility courses, or hunting activities. They also make excellent therapy dogs due to their calm demeanor and ability to connect with people of all ages. People absolutely love this dog breed.

French Bulldogs

French Bulldogs, also known as “Frenchies,” are popular small companion dogs that originated in France. This dog breed has a distinctive appearance: bat-like ears, a short snout, and a compact, muscular build. They are known for their affectionate and playful personalities and make great apartment pets due to their small size and low exercise needs. French Bulldogs are also intelligent but can be stubborn sometimes, making training a bit challenging. They crave human attention and love to cuddle with their owners. However, they can be prone to health issues such as breathing problems due to their short snouts, so it’s important to adopt from a reputable breeder who prioritizes the dog’s health over appearance.

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Labrador Retrievers

Labrador Retrievers, commonly known as “Labs,” are a popular dog breed of medium to large-sized dogs that originated in Newfoundland, Canada. They were originally bred for retrieving game during hunting expeditions and have since become beloved family pets due to their friendly and loyal nature. Labs have short, dense coats in three colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. They are highly intelligent and trainable, making them great candidates for various activities such as hunting, obedience training, agility courses, or search and rescue missions. Labs are also known for their love of water and swimming abilities. They are gentle and get along well with children and other animals. However, they do require regular exercise.

There you go! Now you know the most popular dog breeds in the US. We think these dog breeds are the best as well. But remember saving a “mix” is a really rewarding and fulfilling thing for you to do as well.