There’s a New Top Dog In America (But Not In Utah)
For 31 years, the Labrador Retriever was the most popular dog in America and Utah was happy to play along with the lovable and goofy pet.
But according to the American Kennel Club, we have a new champion.
"For the first time in history, 2022 found the French Bulldog taking the No. 1 spot. This ends the Labrador Retriever’s 31-year reign as the most popular dog breed in America.
The French Bulldog has moved into the number one position after climbing the ranks in popularity over the last ten years. In 2012, the Frenchie was ranked at No. 14. Since then, registrations have increased by over 1,000%, bringing this playful breed to the top. French Bulldogs held the No. 2 spot in 2021."
The Lab held the top spot for so long that the dog breed became practically ubiquitous. It seems everyone had one.
In Utah, Labs were especially popular and in fact, the amiable and gregarious dogs still hold the top spot.
But being in second place nationally isn't so bad for the dog breed and the puppies don't care either way.
Along with the French Bulldog and the Labrador Retriever, the rest of the top five are the Golden Retriever, the German Shepherd and the Poodle.
Rottweilers and Dachsunds are notably in the top 10 as well.
As far as the other side of the coin, the least popular dog breed in America is the English Foxhound, barely edging out the Norwegian Lundehund.
Rank | Breed |
---|---|
1 | French Bulldogs |
2 | Labrador Retrievers |
3 | Golden Retrievers |
4 | German Shepherd Dogs |
5 | Poodles |
6 | Bulldogs |
7 | Rottweilers |
8 | Beagles |
9 | Dachshunds |
10 | German Shorthaired Pointers |
The full list is here.