THE 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds is a list drawn up by the American Kennel Club (AKC) every January; it’s a list of the popularity of each dog breed in relation to how many registrations there were of that breed in the previous year. To be in the top 10 most popular dog breeds is every dog’s dream!
As you can see, it seems to mainly consist of the same dogs! They just shift positions amongst themselves throughout the years.
The Labrador Retriever has remained the most popular dog breed for years on end, but it’s been overtaken by a new kid on the block. As of 2023, French Bulldogs are now top of the pack!
The top 5 most popular breeds tend to be the same 5 dogs too. What is it about these dogs which make them so popular with dog lovers consistently throughout the years?!
If the dog’s name is underlined in blue you can click on the image or the breed name to learn more about that particular breed.
10 Most Popular Dog Breeds in 2023
French Bulldog
Also known as the “Frenchie”, these are small, bright and affectionate dogs. French Bulldogs are the ultimate combination of adorable, playful, and loyal companions, making them a beloved breed that steals the hearts of dog lovers everywhere! It’s not difficult to understand why they’ve taken over the top spot with US dog owners.
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador retriever is a perennial favorite – a great family dog, good with children, yet robust and up for a good run. This happy-go-lucky breed will fit into almost any home. Read more about the Labrador by clicking on the image above.
Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is mild-mannered, affectionate and active dog breed. They love everyone, and fit very well into any family home. They do not make good guard dogs, due to their friendly nature, and need a fair amount of exercise to stay healthy.
German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is a supremely loyal and intelligent breed, a great guardian, and inspires equal loyalty from lovers of the breed. The German Shepherd ideally needs a job, and can become bored if left idle for long periods of time.
Poodle
Poodles are extremely intelligent dogs, and seem to understand what you are thinking! They pick things up very quickly, and fit into any home. They do need firm training, as their intelligence can also make them a little independent at times.
Bulldog
The Bulldog (or Olde English Bulldogge) is a calm, laid-back breed, happy to sleep away half the day in their favorite spot in the house. They are a calm breed, and do not need much exercise beyond a decent walk each day. Definitely a couch potato!
Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is an imposing breed from Germany. Their size, strength and power make them great guard dogs, but they are also intelligent and love being in a family atmosphere.
Beagle
Beagles are active and enthusiastic dogs, enjoying a good run off-leash. They are gentle and sensitive, and love being in a family group. They are generally healthy, and are considered to be low-maintenance (apart from exercise needs).
Dachshund
Dachshunds are the ultimate package of spunky personalities, cute looks, and unwavering loyalty, making them an irresistible breed that captures the hearts of dog lovers everywhere.
German Shorthaired Pointer
German Shorthaired Pointers are a versatile and energetic breed, equipped with an impressive hunting instinct and a playful spirit, making them a beloved choice for active families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Most Popular Dog Breeds in Previous Years
10 Most Popular Breeds in 2023
- French Bulldog
- Labrador Retriever
- Golden Retriever
- German Shepherd
- Poodle
- Bulldog
- Rottweiler
- Beagle
- Dachshund
- German Shorthaired Pointer
10 Most Popular Breeds in 2022
- Labrador Retriever
- German Shepherd
- Golden Retriever
- Bulldog
- Beagle
- French Bulldog
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Poodle
- Rottweiler
- Boxer
10 Most Popular Breeds in 2021
- Labrador Retriever
- French Bulldog
- Golden Retriever
- German Shepherd
- Poodle
- Bulldog
- Beagle
- Rottweiler
- German Shorthaired Pointer
- Dachshund
10 Most Popular Breeds in 2020
- Labrador Retriever
- French Bulldog
- German Shepherd
- Golden Retriever
- Bulldog
- Poodle
- Beagle
- Rottweiler
- German Shorthaired Pointer
- Dachshund
10 Most Popular Breeds in 2019
- Labrador Retriever
- German Shepherd
- Golden Retriever
- French Bulldog
- Bulldog
- Poodle
- Beagle
- Rottweiler
- German Shorthaired Pointer
- Pembroke Welsh Corgi
10 Most Popular Breeds in 2018
- Labrador Retriever
- German Shepherd
- Golden Retriever
- Beagle
- Bulldog
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Boxer
- Poodle
- Rottweiler
- Dachshund
10 Most Popular Breeds in 2017
- Labrador Retriever
- German Shepherd
- Golden Retriever
- Beagle
- Bulldog
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Boxer
- Poodle
- Rottweiler
- Dachshund
10 Most Popular Breeds in 2016
- Labrador
- German Shepherd
- Beagle
- Golden Receiver
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Bulldog
- Boxer
- Poodle
- Dachshund
- Rottweiler
10 Most Popular Breeds in 2015
- Labrador
- German Shepherd
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Beagle
- Golden Retriever
- Bulldog
- Boxer
- Dachshund
- Poodle
- Shih Tzu
10 Most Popular Breeds in 2014
- Labrador Retriever
- Yorkshire Terrier
- German Shepherd
- Golden Retriever
- Beagle
- Boxer
- Dachshund
- Bulldog
- Poodle
- Shih Tzu
10 Most Popular Breeds in 2013
- Labrador Retriever
- Yorkshire Terrier
- German Shepherd
- Golden Retriever
- Beagle
- Boxer
- Dachshund
- Bulldog
- Poodle
- Shih Tzu
The 10 most popular dog breeds.
This list of the 10 most popular dog breeds according to the AKC will give you an idea about which dog breeds people really like. And there are good reasons for their choices! These breeds are all loyal, and like being around humans.
They all make great family dogs – BUT remember they all need to be properly trained!