The most popular dog breeds have it all – from timeless classics to up-and-comers who are sure to soon be stealing the spotlight from their more well-known canine brothers and sisters.
While we always expect to see dogs like the French Bulldog and Labrador Retriever headlining popular dog lists, we're starting to see some newcomers moving up the ranks, like the adorable Miniature American Shepherd.
Ready to find out which dog is the most popular in the US and which one just scraped into the top 32? Below, we reveal the most popular dog breeds according to the American Kennel Club – and we have a feeling a few of the entries on this list are going to surprise you!
Most popular dog breeds
1. French Bulldog
There are so many reasons to love French Bulldogs – it’s no wonder they're the most popular dog breed in the US! A dog of few words, Frenchies don't yap or bark unnecessarily and their small size coupled with their bat-like ears makes them one super adorable package.
Highly affectionate, outstanding with children, and very low maintenance on the exercise front, the adaptable French Bulldog really is the whole package.
2. Labrador Retriever
A breed that's loved the world over, the friendly and outgoing Labrador Retriever is a high-spirited pup with kind eyes and endless enthusiasm. With their easygoing and social nature, Labradors see all strangers as a best buddy in the making and they make incredible playmates for children.
Be warned, though, Labradors require a lot of exercise to keep them happy and healthy so they're best suited to those with an active lifestyle.
3. Golden retriever
Another beloved family pet, the golden retriever is one of the friendliest dog breeds with a natural love of people. Devoted, trustworthy, and always eager to please, they are incredibly emotionally intelligent and have a deeply sensitive nature that makes them the canine companion of choice for many singles, couples, and families.
Their joyous approach to life never fails to put a smile on their owner's faces but they're also one of the most hardworking dogs around, which is why they’re one of the best service dog breeds.
4. German Shepherd
If you're after a loyal and courageous companion with an outstanding work ethic, the German Shepherd is hard to beat.
With an off-the-charts level of intelligence and a dedicated nature, the German Shepherd is highly trainable and loves to learn.
These high-energy dogs that were originally bred for herding sheep, their obedience, bravery, and devotion mean they're now often found in law enforcement roles.
They are sensitive dogs who need lots of positive reinforcement, but can make excellent family members as long as you have plenty of time to invest in them.
5. Poodle
Overflowing with intelligence that makes them a dream to train, the poodle is agile, graceful, and always up for having fun. Originally bred to retrieve waterfowl, they're now a popular family dog whose lively and playful nature makes them a huge hit with children.
Coming in three sizes, standard, miniature, and toy, they're commonly bred with other pups, such as Labradors, golden retrievers, and cocker spaniels to create doodle dogs.
6. Dachshund
There are some things you'll only know if you're a dachshund owner — like just how spunky these little pups can be! Know for their long bodies and super short legs, the dachshund has a courageous nature and is always on the go.
Originally bred as a hunting dog, they love to chase, so you're guaranteed that there'll never be a dull moment when you have one of these dogs in your family.
Utterly devoted to their owners, they can be independent-minded and easily distracted, so when training them, short sessions with lots of positive reinforcement works best.
7. Bulldog
Instantly recognizable thanks to their thick-set and low-slung bodies, the English Bulldog may wear a permanently sour expression on their face but beneath their furrowed brow lies a friendly and calm nature. Brave and tenacious, bulldogs have a fearless spirit and strong protective instincts, but at home, they are gentle and docile, making them fantastic friends for children.
Easygoing and very chilled, they're highly adaptable and will be just as happy living in a small apartment as a sprawling farmhouse. A daily stroll or a good play session is perfectly acceptable for the bulldog who's quite content to spend the rest of their time catching up on their beauty sleep.
8. Beagle
Carefree, optimistic, and merry, the delightful beagle has long been a firm favorite amongst dog lovers. They're athletic dogs who love being in on all the action, so if you're looking for a pup who will happily accompany you on adventures, the beagle is a great choice.
Curious and brave with a delightful dose of mischief, beagles can be somewhat of a handful to train as they're so inquisitive and energetic. We recommend you start training this breed early to ensure you end up with a well-behaved adult dog.
9. Rottweiler
There are few breeds more misunderstood than the Rottweiler, which is often portrayed as being ferocious and aggressive. And yet when Rottie's are well-trained and socialized, nothing could be further from the truth.
Yes, they do have strong guarding and protective instincts, so make for one of the best guard dogs, but they are also incredibly loyal and loving – so much so that this large dog will think nothing of sprawling out on their owners lap in search of a cuddle and a nap.
An energetic dog who does best with an active family, the Rottie makes a devoted and playful companion for the right person.
10. German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer is a medium-sized versatile gundog with an enthusiastic nature. When it comes to dog breeds that were made for running, the German Shorthaired Pointer is hard to beat thanks to their endless stamina, so if you like hitting the trails, this could well be the pup for you.
Energetic but with a gentle disposition, they're wonderfully friendly and loyal dogs who form strong connections with their human family.
11. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Originating in Wales where it has traditionally been used to herd cattle, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a sturdy dog renowned for its affectionate and friendly nature. Intelligent, playful, and outgoing, they have a comedic streak which makes them a lot of fun to have around.
Corgis need a lot of exercise and while on the whole they're easy to train, they do have a stubborn streak that requires owners to be both patient and consistent. Just be aware that their strong herding instincts can spill over into the home where they may try to hear other animals and children.
12. Australian Shepherd
One of the best dog breeds for life on the farm, the athletic and energetic Australian Shepherd is never happier than when they have a job to do.
While their name would lead you to believe they were developed in Australia, they actually originated in California and in both countries, they remain a popular breed with farmers and cowboys.
Smart and exuberant, the Aussie Shepherd requires lots of mental and physical stimulation, but as long as they get this, they'll reward their humans by being an obedient and devoted companion for life.
13. Yorkshire Terrier
When it comes to the best small dog breeds, the Yorkshire Terrier is hard to beat. Affectionately referred to as the Yorkie, this pup may be compact in size but they're big on personality. A self-assured, lively bundle of fun, the Yorkie is bold and fearless with strong hunting instincts.
Confident and independent, this litter terrier breed is known for being eager to please and quick to learn. Providing plenty of laughs and love, it's impossible not to fall head over heels for this sprightly and tenacious terrier.
14. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
A wonderful choice, if you're looking for a gentle and affectionate family companion, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, is the epitome of flexibility and adaptability, being equally happy living a highly active lifestyle or a more sedentary one.
Because of that, they're fantastic dogs for everyone, including seniors. Intelligent and easy to train, Cavies are motivated by love and affection, so be sure to give them plenty of praise when they do something well.
15. Doberman pinscher
Quick to learn and even quicker to respond, the fiercely protective and obedient doberman pinscher is always looking for ways to please their owner. Curious, intelligent, and athletic, they are energetic dogs who need an active lifestyle in order to thrive.
A large dog breed that can weigh up to 100 pounds, they are loyal and loving with family but can be aloof with strangers. Because of their strong prey drive, dobermans are not recommended for homes where small pets are present.
16. Cane corso
A strong-willed dog with a dominant personality, the cane corso needs an experienced owner who's equipped to meet their needs. An Italian mastiff breed who can weigh up to 110 pounds, these large dogs are incredibly loyal to those they love but can be very wary and aloof around strangers.
Early training and socialization are key when it comes to this breed to ensure their protective instincts are channeled appropriately. However, as long as their needs are met, the Cane Corso makes a devoted and affectionate companion.
17. Miniature schnauzer
Originating in Germany in the mid to late 19th century, the miniature schnauzer is a small dog measuring 12–14 inches and weighing no more than 20 pounds. Alert little dogs with plenty of personality, they're one of the best dogs for extroverts thanks to their lively and sociable nature.
Vocal and family-friendly, they're incredibly enthusiastic dogs and love attention. Highly intelligent, they're easy to train but are known for having a stubborn streak, so a firm but loving hand is essential.
18. Boxer
When it comes to the most important things to know about boxers, their big hearts are at the top of the list. Loving dogs with deeply loyal natures, boxers often forget how big they are and will think nothing of regularly attempting to be a lap dog.
They are delightfully playful and goofy and seem to be forever in high spirits. A mischievous pup with boundless energy, they adore children and are deeply kind.
19. Great Dane
The Great Dane is known as the gentle giant of the canine kingdom and for good reason – while they may be big and look imposing, they are true softies at heart. Measuring up to 32 inches, they're the tallest dog breed in the world but that won't stop them trying to seek out a cuddle!
Calm, sweet-natured, and affectionate, they are a true friend to all and are known for being low-energy, making them a good choice if you're looking for a chilled-out fur friend.
20. Shih tzu
One of the world's most popular toy dog breeds, the friendly and outgoing Shih Tzu is a companion dog from Tibet whose name means "little lion." Small in stature but with a big heart, the affectionate Shih Tzu loves cuddling up on a nice warm lap and is completely devoted to their humans.
They make wonderful family pets and because they're so good-natured, they're more than happy to offer a warm welcome to strangers. Highly adaptable, they're just as well suited to city life as they are to life on the farm.
21. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a gentle giant with a sweet and affectionate nature. Lovingly referred to as 'nanny dogs' because of how fantastic they are with children, this breed hails from Switzerland and is built for hard work.
Instantly recognizable thanks to their tricolored coat, the fluffy Bernese Mountain Dog has a calm temperament that makes them well suited to family life as well as therapy and service roles.
Active dogs who need plenty of exercise, the Bernese Mountain Dog is loyal, intelligent, eager to please, and easy to train.
22. Pomeranian
Looking for a perky and plucky little dog with a spirited nature? Well, look no further than the feisty Pomeranian! Hailing from the Pomerania region in north-west Poland and north-east Germany, this spitz dog may be small but they have a huge personality and adores being the center of attention.
Courageous dogs who will happily take on pups three times their size, the Pomeranian is fun, vocal, playful, and affectionate. Just be mindful that they can be wilful, so early training and socialization are a must.
23. Boston Terrier
Originating in the US in the 19th century, the Boston Terrier is a cross between the English Bulldog and the now-extinct English White Terrier.
Affectionately known as the "American Gentleman" thanks to the fact that their black and white coat makes them look like they're wearing a tuxedo, the Boston Terrier is a bright dog with a comical nature who gets on famously with both adults and children.
Kind, curious, and full of mischief, they are spunky, people-oriented dogs who enjoy being out and about. One of many brachycephalic dog breeds, they have a shortened muzzle and pushed-in face that can make breathing and exercise difficult.
24. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is a medium-sized working dog belonging to the spitz family. Known for their outstanding endurance, they're one of the best dog breeds for cold climates thanks to their thick double coats. Smart and outgoing dogs who are known for being independent thinkers, they're super talkative and have endless energy.
Because they're so intelligent and active, they do best in homes with humans who live a very outdoorsy lifestyle and have the time, patience, and energy to train them. For those able to tick those boxes, the Siberian Husky will reward you by being an affectionate and devoted companion.
25. Havanese
Native to Cuba, the Havanese always have a cheerful expression on their face and a spring in their step. Happy and charming dogs with a playful nature, the Havanese is easy to train and has a very low prey drive, so you won't need to worry about them chasing after everything that moves if you let them off leash!
Affectionate with everyone but sticking like glue to their owner's side, they are true “Velcro dogs” who love to cuddle.
26. Shetland Sheepdog
There are so many things to love about the Shetland Sheepdog – their gorgeous looks for starters! But the Sheltie (as they're affectionately known) is definitely a case of beauty being more than skin deep because these pups are also incredibly loyal and loving.
Eager companions who always want to please, Shelties are energetic and bright dogs who are never happier than when they have a job to do. Outstanding athletes, they excel at obedience and agility and make sensitive and affectionate family pets.
27. English Springer Spaniel
English Springer Spaniels are high-energy dogs originally bred to hunt and retrieve game. Enthusiastic and cheerful pups with a happy-go-lucky nature, they adore the water and get on well with just about everyone.
This British breed is not a dog for the faint of heart as they need a lot of physical and mental stimulation to keep them happy, healthy, and out of mischief. They also don't do well with being left alone for long periods, so they're best suited for homes where someone is around most of the day.
28. Brittany
The Brittany is a gundog bred in France that has long been a favorite amongst hunters thanks to its endurance and versatility. Energetic but easygoing, they are extremely willing dogs with an upbeat and very sweet nature.
However, because they are sensitive souls who bond deeply with their humans, they don't do well with being left alone for long periods and are one of the dog breeds most likely to have separation anxiety.
They also like to stay busy, so be sure to provide them with plenty of enrichment either physically or in the form of the best dog puzzle toys.
29. Miniature American Shepherd
A stunningly beautiful dog who stands around 13–18 inches when fully grown and weighs between 20–40 pounds, the Miniature American Shepherd has a fantastic temperament that enables it to fit with ease into families with young children or other pets.
Highly intelligent, they need plenty of enrichment to keep their bodies and minds healthy, so if you plan on welcoming one of these cuties into your family, they'll need lots of long walks and brain games to keep them in good shape.
Eager to please and deeply devoted to their humans, they tend to be easy to train and they love to learn.
30. Cocker Spaniel
One of those dogs that almost anyone could name in a canine lineup, the sweet-faced cocker spaniel is a playful pup that makes an excellent companion for first-time pet parents. Lively dogs that love to have fun, make fantastic friends with children, and tend to have a happy, eager-to-please nature.
Kind and gentle, they're very adaptable and will be more than content in almost any living situation as long as they get plenty of exercise each day.
31. Border Collie
A British breed of herding dog, the Border Collie is a popular choice of pup on farms all over the world. Spunky and active dogs who make great family companions, they're always up for a hike or a game of frisbee and have almost inexhaustible energy levels.
Often considered to be the smartest dog breed, the border collie needs a lot of mental stimulation to prevent it from becoming bored and destructive. However, for those able to provide that, the border collie will be the most loyal and faithful of friends.
32. Chihuahua
Did you know Chihuahuas are the smallest breed? It's true! These pint-sized pups weigh no more than six pounds – but don't let their tiny stature fool you, they tend to be very feisty.
With a love of the spotlight, there's never a dull moment when you have a Chihuahua in the family, and while they are independent dogs, they are also highly affectionate and loyal to their chosen human.
Fun-loving “Velcro dogs” with minimal exercise needs, they're great if you're looking for a pup who'd rather be carried in your tote bag while you run errands as opposed to being taken on a long walk.
Looking for a new dog to join your family? How about one of the best dogs for seniors or the best dogs for first-time owners
