They say you’re not supposed to pick favorites but when it comes to dog breeds, we all do it! Some of us like them big and slobbery. Others prefer pint-sized and portable. Those of us with loads of space might prefer a working or sporting breed while city dwellers may want a medium sized active dog that can keep up with fast moving feet. We all have our reasons for favoring one type of dog over another, even though we’ve got nothing but love for dogs of every variety.
Rover.com just released rankings of the top 20 most popular dog breeds in the country and in selected cities, too. They looked at breed data for over half a million dog having families across the country and used that information to rank the country’s favorite breeds. They also took a deeper dive into select cities to put together the 5 most popular breeds in each of those, giving us a unique peek at regional differences in pup preferences.
Mixed Breeds Took the Top National Spot
Shelter dogs and rescues are typically mixed breeds. With adoption rising as the most attractive option for many dog families, it is no surprise that Mixed Breeds took the top spot nationwide. What’s not to love? Mixed breeds are completely unique! Aside from siblings, there are no two mixed breeds who are genetically the same. Personality is individual so you never know what you’re going to get when you adopt a Mixed Breed until you get to know each other.
Labs, Chihuahuas, and Goldens, Oh My!
Labrador Retrievers, Chihuahuas, and Golden Retrievers ranked 2nd, 3rd, and 4th nationally. These findings come as no surprise. Is there anything more Americana than a Lab swimming after a tennis ball? Chihuahuas are more wildly popular than the tacos they are famous for pushing. And Goldens? They are just about the sweetest and smartest dogs you’ll ever meet. All of these breeds have amazing temperaments along with beauty and brains in equal measure.
American Pit Bull Terriers made the list at #16 nationwide while the crossbreed Goldendoodle came in just before the Poodle at #10. Check out the full national rankings below.
Check out the rankings in your city to see if your favorites made the list!
Top 20 Most Popular Breeds Nationwide
- Mixed Breed
- Labrador Retriever
- Chihuahua
- Golden Retriever
- German Shepherd
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Shih Tzu
- Dachshund
- Boxer
- Goldendoodle
- Poodle
- Beagle
- Australian Shepherd
- Siberian Husky
- Maltese
- American Pit Bull Terrier
- Pug
- French Bulldog
- Pomeranian
- Border Collie