This Breed Just Beat Out Labrador Retrievers for America’s Favorite Dog
After more than 30 years, America officially has a new favorite dog.
On Wednesday, the American Kennel Club announced that the French Bulldog has taken the lead in its list of the most popular breeds in the U.S., ending the Labrador Retriever’s 31-year reign as the top dog.
“The French Bulldog has seen a surge in popularity over the years, and for good reason,” AKC Executive Secretary Gina DiNardo said in a press release announcing the news. “Frenchies are playful, adaptable, loyal, and outgoing.”
First recognized by the AKC in 1898, French Bulldogs’ adaptable, generally quiet demeanor and small size have made them particularly popular in cities across the country, where they’re a natural fit for apartments and smaller homes.
Although DiNardo added that Frenchies “make wonderful companions for a variety of people,” she emphasized the importance of “[doing] your research to not only find the right breed for your lifestyle, but to ensure that you’re getting a well-bred dog from a responsible breeder.”
French Bulldogs aren’t the only breed to surge in popularity in recent years. Other breeds that made major strides from 2021 to 2022 include the American Hairless Terrier, the Gordon Setter, the Italian Greyhound, and the Anatolian Shepherd Dog.
And don’t worry, Lab lovers — the popular breed hasn’t fallen far. Labradors still claimed the No. 2 spot on the AKC’s list, which is determined according to the number of pure-bred dogs registered with the organization. Golden Retrievers took third place, followed by German Shepherds and Poodles in fourth and fifth place, respectively.
Here’s the full list of the top 10 most popular dog breeds in the United States, according to the American Kennel Club:
- French Bulldogs
- Labrador Retrievers
- Golden Retrievers
- German Shepherds
- Poodles
- Bulldogs
- Rottweilers
- Beagles
- Dachshunds
- German Shorthaired Pointers
You can learn more and check out the full rankings here.