America’s Favorite Dogs: Top 15 Most Popular Breeds in US
Thinking about bringing home a dog and curious what America’s loving right now? Here’s a friendly, fact-packed guide based on the latest AKC registration rankings, with quick snapshots of each breed, practical advice on costs and care, and easy picks for different lifestyles.
Important note: “Popularity” here reflects AKC purebred registrations. Many U.S. households have mixed-breed dogs, which aren’t captured in AKC rankings but are incredibly beloved and common in shelters and rescues.
Check out more breed-related content:
- Top 20 Big Fluffy Dog Breeds for Extra Cuddles and Joy
- Best Dog Breeds for First-Time Owners + Beginner Tips
- Top 15 Low-Maintenance/Easy-Care Dog Breeds
The Top 15 Dog Breeds in the US
1. French Bulldog
For the third straight year, this compact, people‑loving charmer holds the #1 spot after overtaking the Labrador in 2022. The climb was dramatic: around a decade ago, it sat well outside the top ten, surged to #2 by 2021, and now reigns supreme-especially in big cities.
Vibe: Easygoing, affectionate, great for apartments
Keep in mind: Heat sensitivity and airway/skin‑fold care; budget for vet insurance
2. Labrador Retriever
After a record 31‑year run at #1, Labs settled to #2 but remain America’s quintessential family dog-friendly, trainable, and always up for a walk or swim.
Vibe: Outgoing athlete, kid‑friendly, eager to please
Keep in mind: Daily exercise, portion control, screen hips/elbows
Full Labrador Retriever profile
3. Golden Retriever
A perennial favorite thanks to its sweet nature, smarts, and versatility. Goldens consistently rank near the top, making them ideal for therapy work and families.
Vibe: Gentle, social, enthusiastic
Keep in mind: Regular brushing; be proactive about health screenings
4. German Shepherd Dog
A top‑five mainstay for decades. A loyal, highly trainable working partner who thrives with jobs and structure.
Vibe: Courageous, focused, devoted
Keep in mind: Needs meaningful training/enrichment; screen hips and spine
5. Poodle
Brainy, athletic, and low‑shedding, Poodles have climbed back into the top five as allergy‑aware homes and training fans rediscover how versatile they are.
Vibe: Smart, stylish, and game for anything from agility to couch time
Keep in mind: Professional grooming is part of the deal
6. Dachshund
Small dog, giant personality. Their appeal spans city and suburb living, with smooth, long‑haired, and wire‑haired coats to choose from.
Vibe: Bold, loyal, comical
Keep in mind: Protect that back ramps, weight control, and no high jumps
7. Bulldog
The chillest companion on the list. Bulldogs are steady, loving homebodies-no wonder they keep a tight grip on top‑ten status.
Vibe: Low‑key, cuddly, deeply devoted
Keep in mind: Airway/heat sensitivity and skin fold care are essential
8. Beagle
Merry, friendly, and social, Beagles are classic family dogs. They’ve been a fixture near the top for ages.
Vibe: Curious sniffer with a cheerful heart
Keep in mind: Channel that nose with games; watch weight and ears
9. Rottweiler
Steady, confident, and affectionate with their people, Rotties continue to hold a solid top‑ten spot.
Vibe: Calm at home, powerful outside-training pays off
Keep in mind: Early socialization, joint and heart screening are recommended
10. German Shorthaired Pointer
One of the decade’s big risers. A field athlete who doubles as an enthusiastic adventure buddy.
Vibe: Energetic, versatile, always ready to go
Keep in mind: Needs vigorous daily exercise and mental work
Full German Shorthaired Pointer profile
11. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Social‑media star and real‑life sweetheart. Compact, clever, and expressive, they’ve grown steadily in popularity.
Vibe: Playful herder with a sense of humor
Keep in mind: Heavy shedding; protect the back and train for polite barking
Full Pembroke Welsh Corgi profile
12. Australian Shepherd
An agility and hiking favorite, this brilliant herder thrives when you give them a job to do.
Vibe: Athletic, clever, eager to learn
Keep in mind: Lots of exercise and training; watch for drug sensitivities (MDR1)
Full Australian Shepherd profile
13. Yorkshire Terrier
Small, sassy, and low‑shedding, the Yorkie remains a beloved apartment companion and travel buddy.
Vibe: Confident, affectionate, portable
Keep in mind: Regular grooming (easier in a puppy cut) and dental care
Full Yorkshire Terrier profile
14. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
A gentle lap companion that’s perfect for calmer homes and smaller spaces-no surprise they’ve climbed into the top 15.
Vibe: Soft‑tempered, cuddly, polite with kids
Keep in mind: Ask about heart screenings; maintain ear/coat care
Full Cavalier King Charles Spaniel profile
15. Doberman Pinscher
Sleek, athletic, and biddable, the Doberman’s strong return to the top 15 reflects growing interest in trainable, loyal working breeds.
Vibe: Devoted guardian who loves structured activity
Keep in mind: Consider heart screening (DCM) and consistent training
Full Doberman Pinscher profile
Quick picks by lifestyle
Apartment/all-day indoors
French Bulldog, Bulldog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Yorkshire Terrier, Toy/Mini Poodle, Dachshund
Active families, outdoorsy weekends
Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, German Shorthaired Pointer, Australian Shepherd, Doberman Pinscher
Allergy‑leaning households (low‑shedding)
Poodle (any size), Yorkshire Terrier
First‑time owners (most forgiving learning curve)
Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Toy/Mini Poodle
Experienced owners (benefit from structure and training)
German Shepherd Dog, Doberman Pinscher, Australian Shepherd, German Shorthaired Pointer
What Are the Most Popular Small Dog Breeds in the U.S.?
If you’re short on space but big on love, consider these small stars:
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French Bulldog - Low-energy, affectionate
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Dachshund - Loyal and quirky
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Yorkshire Terrier - Tiny but confident
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Corgi - Bold and smart
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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel - Calm and cuddly
These breeds are perfect for apartment living and first-time dog owners.
Are there any apartment-friendly dogs in the list?
- Natural fits: French Bulldog, Bulldog, Cavalier, Yorkie, Toy/Mini Poodle, Dachshund
- With training/ exercise: Beagles and Pembroke Welsh Corgis can adapt well
Hypoallergenic leaners in the top 15
Poodle (Toy/Mini/Standard), Yorkshire Terrier
Note: “Hypoallergenic” means less likely to trigger allergies-not allergy‑proof. Always meet the individual dog.
How to choose without second‑guessing it later?
- Match energy to your weekday routine (not your weekend ambitions)
- Be realistic about grooming time and cost
- Plan a multi‑year budget that includes training and insurance
- Meet several dogs-temperament varies within every breed
Common Health Issues in Popular U.S. Dog Breeds
Every breed has unique health needs:
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French Bulldogs & Bulldogs: Breathing issues
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Labradors: Weight gain
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Goldens: Cancer risk
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Dachshunds: Back problems
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German Shepherds: Hip dysplasia
Regular vet visits and a balanced diet are key to a long, happy life.
Where to Adopt or Buy Popular Dog Breeds?
Before buying, check local shelters and breed-specific rescues. Many purebreds are waiting for homes.
If you prefer a breeder, look for responsible breeders with good reputations.
And don’t forget to stock up on essentials like long-lasting yak chews, toys, and healthy treats to keep your pup happy and busy.
What is the cost of owning and maintaining a dog?
According to a survey conducted by AKC, these are the average cost of owning and maintaining a dog:
| One-Time Expenses | Average Spent (USD) |
|---|---|
| Purchase/Adoption Fees | $646 |
| Spay/Neuter | $160 |
| Emergency Vet Visits/Surgeries | $631 |
| Training Fees/Supplies | $340 |
| General Supplies (bowl, crate, leashes) | $350 |
| Total | $2,127.00 |
| Annual Expenses | Average Spent (USD) |
|---|---|
| Food | $446 |
| Vet Care (check-ups, shots) | $423 |
| Travel | $279 |
| Grooming | $190 |
| Pet Sitting, Walking, Boarding | $223 |
| Toys/Treats | $217 |
| Ongoing Training | $254 |
| Dog Events | $457 |
| Total | $2,489.00 |
Conclusion
From the loyal Labrador to the charming Frenchie, America’s favorite dogs prove one thing-there’s a perfect breed for everyone. Whether you’re after a playful family dog or a compact apartment buddy, understanding their needs helps you choose the right companion for your lifestyle.
