Dogs have always been widely cherished and adored as beloved companions, and it comes as no surprise that the United States is home to millions of dog lovers across the nation. With such a diverse range of breeds, it can be intriguing to explore which ones rank as the most popular across the country.
There are approximately 89.7 million dogs in the United States. Around 70% of households in the country have at least one dog. [1]
In 2022, the French Bulldog became the top-ranked breed for the first time in history. The Labrador Retriever is no longer the most popular dog breed in America after a 31-year reign. [2]
Here, we highlight the 10 most beloved dog breeds in the USA that have captured the hearts of dog enthusiasts far and wide. Whether you are considering welcoming a new furry friend into your home or simply have a fascination for our four-legged companions, get ready to discover the top breeds that have won over the hearts of Americans everywhere.
Top 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds of 2022 in the United States
French Bulldogs
- Breed Group: Non-Sporting
- Average Weight: Less than 35 pounds
- Character Traits: Playful, Intelligent, Adaptable
- Colors: White, Brindle, Fawn, Tan, Brindle & White
French Bulldogs are small, compact dogs with big personalities, which makes them one of the most popular small-dog breeds, especially among city dwellers. They are known for their adorable appearance, including their bat-like ears and wrinkled face.
Despite their small size, they are sturdy and make great companions for families or individuals. French Bulldogs are known for their playful and affectionate nature, making them perfect for apartment living. [1]
Labrador Retrievers
- Breed Group: Sporting Group
- Average Weight: 65-80 pounds (male) 55-70 pounds (female)
- Character Traits: Active, Friendly, Outgoing
- Colors: Black, Chocolate, Yellow
Labrador Retrievers have held the top spot as the most popular dog breed in the USA for many years. They are friendly, outgoing, and excellent family pets. Labs are intelligent and highly trainable, making them versatile in various roles, including service and therapy work. They are also great with children and other animals, making them the perfect addition to any household.
Golden Retrievers
- Breed Group: Sporting Group
- Average Weight: 55-75 pounds
- Character Traits: Intelligent, Friendly, Devoted
- Colors: Dark Golden, Light Golden, Cream
Golden Retrievers are known for their kind and gentle nature. They are highly sociable and get along well with both humans and other pets. Golden Retrievers excel as family pets due to their loyalty, intelligence, and patience. They are often trained as therapy or guide dogs, thanks to their calm and friendly demeanor.
German Shepherd Dogs
- Breed Group: Herding Group
- Average Weight: 50-90 pounds
- Character Traits: Courageous, Confident, and Intelligent
- Colors: Black, White, Black & Tan, Black & Silver, Red & Black, Sable, Grey
German Shepherd Dogs are renowned for their loyalty, intelligence, and protective instincts. They are versatile and highly trainable, making them ideal for various roles such as police, military, and search and rescue work. German Shepherds are loyal and devoted to their families and require mental and physical stimulation to thrive.
Poodles
- Breed Group: Toy Group and Non-Sporting Group
- Average Weight: 4-6 pounds for Toy Poodles, 10-15 pounds for Miniature Poodles, and 40-70 pounds for Standard Poodles
- Character Traits: Intelligent, Agile, Self-Confident, Energetic, Dignified, and Exceptionally Intelligent
- Colors: Black, White, Apricot, Sable, Cream, Black & White, Blue, Silver, Brown, Grey, Red
Poodles come in three sizes – standard, miniature, and toy – and are known for their intelligence and elegance. They have a curly and hypoallergenic coat, making them suitable for people with allergies. Poodles are highly versatile and excel in activities such as obedience training and dog sports. They are also sociable and make great family pets.
Bulldogs
- Breed Group: Non-Sporting Group
- Average Weight: 40-50 pounds
- Character Traits: Sociable, Brave, Serene
- Colors: White, Tan, Piebald, Tan & White, Brindle & White, Red & White, Red Brindle, Red
Bulldogs are known for their muscular build and distinct appearance. Despite their strong physique, they have a gentle and affectionate nature. Bulldogs are great with children and make wonderful apartment pets due to their laid-back demeanor. They are easily recognized by their wrinkled face and unique personality.
Rottweilers
- Breed Group: Working Group
- Average Weight: 80-135 pounds
- Character Traits: Devoted, Affectionate, Self-Assured Protector
- Colors: Black, Mahogany, Tan
Rottweilers are powerful and confident dogs. Known for their protective instincts, they make excellent guard and working dogs. However, with proper socialization and training, Rottweilers can also be gentle and affectionate with their families. They require an experienced owner who can provide them with the necessary structure and exercise.
Beagles
- Breed Group: Hound
- Average Weight: 20-30 pounds
- Character Traits: Inquisitive, Amiable, Joyful
- Colors: Lemon & White, White & Tan, Tri-color, White & Chocolate, Chocolate Tri, Orange & White, Red & White
Beagles are merry and friendly dogs known for their keen sense of smell. They are highly adaptable and excellent with children. Beagles are often used in search and rescue operations due to their excellent tracking abilities. They are active and require regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
Dachshunds
- Breed Group: Hound
- Average Weight: 11-32 pounds (standards and miniatures exist)
- Character Traits: Curious, Sociable, Energetic
- Colors: Black, Black & Tan, Chocolate & Tan, Blue & Tan, Chocolate & Cream, Cream, Tan, Red
Dachshunds, often referred to as “wiener dogs,” are small dogs with long bodies and short legs. They come in different coat varieties, including smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired. Dachshunds are playful and loyal, making them great companions for individuals or families. They have a confident personality and love to explore their surroundings.
German Shorthaired Pointers
- Breed Group: Sporting
- Average Weight: 45-70 pounds
- Character Traits: Friendly, Intelligent, Eager to please
- Colors: Brown Roan, Brown & White, Brown, White & Chocolate, Black & White
German Shorthaired Pointers are energetic and athletic dogs originally bred for hunting. They are highly intelligent and require mental and physical stimulation to be happy. They are known for their versatility and excel in various dog sports, including agility and field trials. German Shorthaired Pointers are also friendly and make great family pets for active households.
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Sources
[1] Martyn, M. (2023, August 11). How Many Dogs Are In The US? A Look At The Numbers! WAF. https://worldanimalfoundation.org/dogs/how-many-dogs-are-in-the-us/
[2] Haid, M. (2023, May 23). The Most Popular Dog Breeds of 2022. American Kennel Club. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/most-popular-dog-breeds-2022/
