Given the upheaval we’ve seen in nearly all areas of life over the past few yearsit’s only appropriate that the world of dog ownership would experience some surprising shakeups.
In 2021the Labrador Retriever sat at the front of the pack in the American Kennel Club’s rankings of most popular dog breedsa position it held with a firm grasp for an astonishing 31 straight years.
But what about now? Wella new king took the canine crown recently. Reaching the apex of its years-long climb up the leaderboardsthe French Bulldog emerged as America’s most popular dog breed in 2022 and still holds the title. But the Frenchie’s ascent isn’t the only notable change to the lineup this past year. Find out which pups are all the rage these days as we look at the top 25 dog breeds.
The 25 Most Popular Dog Breeds
1. French Bulldog
| Height: | 11 – 13 inches |
| Weight: | Under 28 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 10 – 12 years |
Number one on our list of the most popular dog breeds this year is the French Bulldog. This breed has been steadily building its popularity for the past decaderising from the 14th rank in 2012 to breaking the top five in 2017 and finally taking the number one spot in 2022. And when you consider its needsthe surge in ownership makes sense.
French Bulldogs are intelligentplayfuland relatively low-maintenance dogs. As a favorite pet to celebritiesthe affectionate breed gets along with everyone. Alongside its slight framethe Frenchie’s limited barking makes it perfect for smaller homes and apartments.
2. Labrador Retriever
| Height: | 21.5 – 24.5 inches |
| Weight: | 55 – 80 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 10 – 12 years |
The Labrador Retriever’s fall from the top of the popularity rankings wasn’t too faras its adoringfriendly nature maintains its reputation as the quintessential family dog. Thanks to their gundog backgroundLabs are easy to train and laser-focused on satisfying their owners.
They’re a top choice for first-time and experienced dog owners and numerous individuals needing a capable service animal.
3. Golden Retriever
| Height: | 20 – 24 inches |
| Weight: | 55 – 70 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 10 – 12 years |
Not much separates Labrador and Golden Retrievers beyond the Golden’s longerfeathery coat. The hunted game was a bit different for the two sporting breedsallowing for distinct physical differences.
But the identical sweet temperamenttrainabilityand overflowing friendliness make them equally popular for families.
4. German Shepherd
| Height: | 22 to 24 inches (female)24 to 26 inches (male) |
| Weight: | 50 to 70 pounds (female)65 to 90 pounds (male) |
| Lifespan: | 7 to 10 years |
The German Shepherd is a well-rounded working dog that is athleticpowerfuland highly intelligent. Though its name comes from its sheep-tending prowessthe breed quickly became renowned for police and military work in the early 1900s.
TodayGerman Shepherds are still some of the most versatile dogs for guardingservice workmilitary rolesand search and rescue duties. As companion animalstheir exceptional trainabilityloyaltyand confidence have made them a perennial favorite.
5. Poodle
| Height: | 15 inches and over |
| Weight: | 40 – 70 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 10 – 18 years |
To nobody’s surprisethe backbone of the Doodle designer dog craze is one of the most popular purebred dogs. The curlyhypoallergenic coat’s grooming possibilities position the Poodle as the fanciest of breedsbut there’s more to them than fashionable show looks.
Poodles are among the most intelligent of all dogs. They are highly agile and strong and even have a blue-collar pedigree as former water dogs.
6. Bulldog
| Height: | 14-15 inches |
| Weight: | 40-50 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 8-10 years |
As a stockysquash-facedand lovable lump of a dogthe Bulldog’s goofiness and affinity for kids have made it an irresistible family pet. Thankfullytheir loyaltytrainabilityand courage are all that’s left from their bull-baiting days.
Although they’re more prone to health issues than many breedstheir mild energy levels and playfulness make them easy to enjoy.
7. Beagle
| Height: | 13 – 16 inches |
| Weight: | 20 – 25 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 12 – 15 years |
Curious and happy-go-lucky Beagles are a seamless addition to a family with kids and other pets. Being prone to following their nosesthese undersized scenthounds still present numerous challenges. They can be a chore due to their distractibilityenergyshrewdnessand incessant bark.
But if you can iron out their habitsyou’ll understand why Beagles have been a top-10 breed for over half a century.
8. Rottweiler
| Height: | 22 – 27 inches |
| Weight: | 80 – 135 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 8 – 12 years |
The Rottweiler made a positive jump in 2022moving from the eighth most popular dog breed in 2021 to the seventh spot this past year. The intimidating yet calm guard dogs garner interest for their immense loyaltycourageconfidenceand trainability.
As they filled roles as working dogs since the Roman Empirethose traits are intrinsic to the essence of every Rottweiler.
9. German Shorthaired Pointer
| Height: | 23–25 inches |
| Weight: | 55–70 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 12–14 years |
German Shorthaired Pointers are highly agreeable as gundogs and companion animals. They’re adaptable mid-sized dogs with people-pleasingfamily-friendly temperamentsand an intelligent working mindset.
Hunters valued these dogs for their versatility. They could pointretrieveand track across rough land and through the water with minimal direction. If you can satisfy their need for exercise and manage their prey drive with proper trainingGSPs can focus that determination on boundless affection for the family.
10. Dachshund
| Height: | 8 – 9 inches |
| Weight: | 11 – 32 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 12 – 15 years |
When you understand the Dachshund’s badger-hunting historytheir bold personalities begin to make a lot of sense. They’re small in stature yet enormous in bravery and liveliness. These characteristics that made the dogs such incredible hunting dogs have translated into some of the most enjoyable companion animal traits.
Dachshunds are playful and adaptable. Though they can be big barkersthey’re also highly receptive and quick to learn from quality training. As one of the first hounds accepted in the AKC registryDachshunds have long been among the most popular small breeds.
11. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
| Height: | 10 – 12 inches |
| Weight: | 25 – 30 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 12 – 14 years |
Sturdyself-reliantand spryPembroke Welsh Corgis are as hardy as they are adorable. The affectionate foot-tall pups delight with beaming smiles and radar dish-like earsand they’re always alert and ready to grab attention with a confident bark.
Pembroke Welsh Corgis are brightdevotedand trainable. Between that and their cute characterit’s easy to see why they made such significant gains in popularity over the past decade. Since coming in at number 24 in 2013the breed is now on the cusp of cracking the top 10.
12. Australian Shepherd
| Height: | 18–21 inches |
| Weight: | 35–55 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 13–15 years |
From their unique coats to their entertaining personalitieswhat’s not to love about an Aussie? As the capable friends of American ranchersAustralian Shepherds are exceptionally intelligenthard-workingand energetic. They are excellent herders and learn tricks quickly.
Their clever minds and need for stimulation can cause trouble for a new ownerbut their exuberance will only be a benefit with proper training and socialization.
13. Yorkshire Terrier
| Height: | 7–8 inches |
| Weight: | 4–7 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 11–15 years |
As a tiny toy Terrierthe Yorkie boasts plenty of pep in an apartment-friendly package. The sleek floor-sweeping show coat perfectly captures its elegancebut the Yorkshire Terrier brings enough feistiness to match its fanciness.
Yorkies are confident and brave. Everybody can be their friendand they adapt well to change. Yorkshire Terriers are playfulvigilantand outgoingand they are a delight in any setting.
14. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
| Height: | 12 – 13 inches |
| Weight: | 13 – 18 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 9 – 14 years |
Relatively new to the AKC’s ranks is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Appearing in the registry in 1995this adorable long-eared dog didn’t take long to gain a following.
With a background as royal lap dogsCavaliers are understandably a Velcro breed that won’t want to spend a minute away from their owners. They developed a calmgentle temperament and affectionate approach to people and pets. Stillthe Spaniel side shines bright in their athleticism and keen trainability.
15. Doberman Pinscher
| Height: | 24 – 28 inches |
| Weight: | 60 – 100 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 10 – 12 years |
The Doberman Pinscher’s efficientmuscular frame is as impressive as its bold and ever-vigilant personality. The breed appeared in the late 1800s as the product of a taxman’s efforts to protect himself from thieves with a well-bred guard dog. Dobermans marry desirable traits of several breedsincluding:
- Rottweilers
- German Shepherds
- Weimaraners
- German Pinschers
Loyaltyalertnessand courage also make for an excellent family companion. Doberman Pinschers are highly trainable and adaptable. They like to be helpfulwhether in the home or as a service or working dog.
16. Cane Corso
| Height: | 23 – 27 inches |
| Weight: | 90 – 120 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 10 – 12 years |
The Cane Corso’s popularity has exploded in the last ten years. In 2013the working breed barely made the top 50 in the AKC’s rankingyet only 9 years laterit holds a comfy position in the number 18 spot.
The Cane Corso descends from Mastiff dogs serving working and military roles in ancient Rome. They are largemuscularand so powerful that they could even protect their owners against lions and wolves. The affectionate Cane Corso is an excellent companion for a strong-willed owner able to provide proper training and socialization.
17. Miniature Schnauzer
| Height: | 12 – 14 inches |
| Weight: | 11 – 20 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 12 – 15 years |
As a do-it-all worker in its native Germanythe Miniature Schnauzer has evolved into a highly adaptable companion. They travel well and fit in with the apartment life but can be vocal.
Fortunatelytraining is a breeze with these intelligentaffectionate pups. The working heritage can lead to chasingbut you can channel it into sporting activities like agility trials and lure coursing.
18. Boxer
| Height: | 8–12 inches |
| Weight: | 60–70 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 10 – 12 years |
Powerfulintelligentand industrious are terms that accurately describe the Boxer. They’re exceptional guard dogswith perked-up ears always on the alert. Having a ceaseless desire for love from their familyBoxers are always activeupbeatand ready for play.
Their trainability and low grooming demands make them versatile companions for anyone who can provide well-earned attention and affection for these loyal dogs.
19. Great Dane
| Height: | 26—34 inches |
| Weight: | 110—200 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 7—10 years |
Great Danes are a giant working dog breedoften growing to nearly 3 feet at the shoulder and weighing over 170 pounds. While their stature may be imposingtheir affectionatepatientand majestic character will put you at ease.
Originally a boar houndthe Great Dane is a powerful protector and energetic companion. The breed originated in Germany roughly 400–500 years agothough its lineage dates to ancient times. While they typically live less than 10 yearsthis charming breed makes every day count through a sweet disposition and yen for activity.
20. Shih Tzu
| Height: | 9 – 11 inches |
| Weight: | 9 – 16 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 10 – 18 years |
A well-groomed Shih Tzu is elegance incarnate. Like the Yorkiethe toy Shih Tzu in show form presents a luxurious floor-length coat. With a long history as a favored companion to Chinese royaltytheir aristocratic stature shows in their beautiful coatsif not their energetic personalities.
Shih Tzus are delightful around people and animalsthough their size puts them at risk around small children.
21. Bernese Mountain Dog
| Height: | 23 – 28 inches |
| Weight: | 70 – 115 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 6 – 8 years |
Bernese Mountain Dogs hail from chillier climates in Switzerlandwhere their powerful builds positioned them as flexible helpers around the farm. Owners prize the gorgeous and hard-working breed for its pleasing nature.
Berners are energetic yet restrained. They are intelligentdevotedand dependable but willing to let their playful side show with a trusted owner and loving family.
22. Pomeranian
| Height: | 7 – 12 inches |
| Weight: | 4 – 7 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 12 – 15 years |
Pomeranians derived from Spitz-type breeds in the land between Poland and Germanybut their ancestor’s working dog traits didn’t transfer to these undersized royal dogs. The spritely toy breed has long been popular in Hollywood and throughout historywith notable owners including Marie Antoinette and Queen Victoria.
The plush-coated dogs make excellent watchdogs and are adept at learning fun tricks and games.
23. Boston Terrier
| Height: | 9–15 inches |
| Weight: | 5–25 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 13–15 years |
Unlike most terriersthe Boston Terrier is part of the non-working group. The compact and docile dog is more comfortable hanging with its people in the home than hunting vermin outside.
Well-bred Boston Terriers are top-tier house dogs. They’re mellower than other Terriers but also often more entertaining. Grooming needs for their shortlow-shedding coat are minimaland they rarely bark for no reason. Though they can sometimes be stubbornBoston Terriers put their smarts and ability to learn quickly to good use.
24. Siberian Husky
| Height: | 20 – 23.5 inches |
| Weight: | 35 – 60 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 12 – 14 years |
Astute Siberian Huskies have a way of testing unprepared ownersbut their loyalty and charm make them hard to deny. The ever-smiling and wolf-like northern dogbred centuries ago as a sled-pulling runnerdemands ample daily activity to stave off boredom and unwanted behavior.
Huskies need strong-willed owners and training to avoid mischief. Otherwisethey’re naturally social and friendly to everyoneincluding strangers and other animals.
25. Havanese
| Height: | 8.5–11.5 inches |
| Weight: | 7–13 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 14–16 years |
Sharpextrovertedand endearingthe Havanese has been a steady presence among the most popular dog breeds for several years. As the only dog breed native to Cubathe Havanese made an effortless transition from a royal lap dog to a family pet.
The toy Velcro dog only desires time around peopleoffering limitless joyenergyand fun to their family and others.
In Conclusion
Did your pup make this year’s top 25 most popular dog breeds? If notno worries! One of the many joys of dog ownership is that there are no wrong choices for a devoted owner. Every breed is unique.
While this list may include some of the most recognizable and adaptable pupsall dogs can benefit the household when we offer the love and care our canine companions deserve.
See Also:
- 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds in Washington State
- 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds in Massachusetts: Update (With Pictures)
Featured Image Credit: Tatyana VycShutterstock
Contents
The 25 Most Popular Dog Breeds- 1. French Bulldog
- 2. Labrador Retriever
- 3. Golden Retriever
- 4. German Shepherd
- 5. Poodle
- 6. Bulldog
- 7. Beagle
- 8. Rottweiler
- 9. German Shorthaired Pointer
- 10. Dachshund
- 11. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
- 12. Australian Shepherd
- 13. Yorkshire Terrier
- 14. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- 15. Doberman Pinscher
- 16. Cane Corso
- 17. Miniature Schnauzer
- 18. Boxer
- 19. Great Dane
- 20. Shih Tzu
- 21. Bernese Mountain Dog
- 22. Pomeranian
- 23. Boston Terrier
- 24. Siberian Husky
- 25. Havanese
- In Conclusion
The 25 Most Popular Dog Breeds
