What are the top 5 most common dog breeds in the US?

When choosing to adopt a dog, you may consider various breeds before making your final decision. It is good to research and learn about various breed traits, cares required, lifespan, and if they do well with children, etc. By doing research beforehand, you can be prepared for what to expect when adopting a certain breed, extra care requirements, and make sure their personality will adapt to your lifestyle. For example, some dog breeds are better with children than others. Some dog breeds are better for apartments, and some require hours of exercise each day.

Here are the top 5 dog breeds in the US as of March 2021, according to the AKC.

Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever has always been the dog to define ‘man’s best friend.’ Back in the day, labs were bred to retrieve ducks and fish. Now they are the longstanding number one breed in the US and have held the title since 1991. They are a smart and very trainable breed often used as service dogs, and as military and police dogs. They are great as working dogs or even with kids. Their average breed lifespan is 10-12 years, and they are known for their obedient but playful temperament. They can come in 3 colors: yellow, chocolate, and black. Their short fur makes for easy maintenance and their activity levels are great for someone wanting a dog breed to play fetch with or go on hikes.

French Bulldog

The French Bulldog often referred to as Frenchies, has boomed in popularity over the last few years. They make great dogs for apartments because they require low activity and are true cuddlers. They resemble bulldogs, except they have adorable batwing ears that stand straight up giving them a defined look. They are small and have a short coat that is easy to take care of. Their coats can vary in colors and can even be brindle, and their lifespan is 10-14 years. Their mild temperament and loving attitudes make them a top choice for small dog breed lovers.

German Shepard

German Shepards are intelligent dogs, which is why they are most commonly used as police dogs or in the military. They are very loyal, obedient, and often act as guardians for their owners. If not trained properly, this can be an issue and they can sometimes become aggressive towards other dogs or strangers. They fall under the herding category and make great working dogs. Their coat can range in color and can be short or long, but overall their most noticeable attribute is their large body, long snout, and tall shoulders. They are very curious and active which makes them great for search and rescue missions.

Golden Retrievers

Golden Retrievers are popular as family dogs because of their easy-going and happy temperament. They project love for life and are highly intelligent. They are often trained as service dogs for the blind and as search and rescue dogs because they take their work very seriously. They can play fetch for hours, as their name suggests. Their golden coats can vary from dark to light, and their hair often grows long and requires some grooming. They are often fond of swimming and fetching in water. There have been several famous golden retrievers and they are the star in the popular dog movie series, Air Bud.

Bulldog

Bulldogs are an iconic breed for their distinctive look of a pushed-in nose and droopy skin. They have muscular shorter bodies with stocky stature weighing up to 50lbs. They do not do well in heat and should spend hot summer days inside, but they are active and do enjoy walks. They are very friendly dogs, and great for families because they are known to form strong bonds with children. Their lifespan is 8-10 years, and they can sometimes be known to be stubborn. Overall, their loveable face and sweet personalities are what has kept this breed at the top for many years.

No matter what type of dog breed you choose to adopt, it is wise to compare quotes on dog insurance. Get a quote today to ensure you are getting the best pricing and plan for your family.

The information contained on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet's health care or treatment plan.

The authors of this blog are not veterinarians and do not claim to be experts in pet health. The information provided here is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from reputable sources. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

We encourage you to do your own research and consult with your veterinarian before making any decisions about your pet's health.