This ‘playful’ dog breed ranks as most popular in US. Which others made the list?

Simone Jasper
·1 min read
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A dog breed recently took over as the nation’s most popular — and holds onto its crown for a second straight year.

French bulldogs rank No. 1 on a list of top breeds registered with the American Kennel Club last year, according to results published Wednesday, March 20.

“Since overtaking the (lovable) Labrador retriever as the most popular breed, the French bulldog’s popularity has continued to surge,” the AKC wrote in a news release.

Here are the other breeds that were named the top five most common:

  • Labrador retriever at No. 2

  • Golden retriever at No. 3

  • German shepherd at No. 4

  • Poodle at No. 5

French bulldogs again topped the list after first breaking the Labrador retriever’s 31-year streak in 2022. And now, the Frenchie’s “surge in popularity shows no signs of slowing down,” Gina DiNardo, AKC executive secretary, said in the news release.

French bulldogs again received nods for their behavior and smaller size.
French bulldogs again received nods for their behavior and smaller size.

So, what could be drawing owners to French bulldogs?

“The breed is playful, adaptable and has an even temperament,” the AKC wrote. “Frenchies are very popular among city dwellers, as they’re also portable and get along with almost anyone.”

In an email, the AKC told McClatchy News it created the list after studying the 200 breeds that were in its registry in 2023. The breeds rounding out the top 10:

  • Dachshund at No. 6

  • Bulldog at No. 7

  • Beagle at No. 8

  • Rottweiler at No. 9

  • German shorthaired pointer at No. 10

The French bulldog hasn’t ranked as the favorite on every list. In January, a U.S. News & World Report team found Chihuahuas to be the “most beloved” dog breed in the country, McClatchy News reported.

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