Top 10 Dog Breeds In The U.S. According To The AKC 2022

1. Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever (The Lab) comes in at the number one spot again for an amazing run of 30 years as the top dog. This breed has plenty of energy, loves to spend time with their families, and has an incredibly kind demeanor. They are an intelligent breed and would be better suited in a home with an active family that would allow them multiple opportunities to help them burn off some steam.

2. French Bulldog

The French Bulldog (The Frenchie) has a giant personality packed into a compact tank-like structure of a body. They are generally outgoing in nature and confident as you can be. They have become very popular for city dwellers in recent years due to their low to moderate exercise needs. They lead the pack by some distance as the most popular of the small breeds.

3. Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is consistently one of the most popular dog breeds and for good reason! These dogs are affectionate and loyal. They have a cheerful disposition and are always happy and eager to please their owners. The happy-go-lucky exterior they have hides a deep intelligence which makes them the go-to breed when it comes to guide dogs and the perfect family companion.

4. German Shepherd

The German Shepherd was built to work. These dogs can be seen working in many different occupations. Bomb or drug-sniffing operations, security patrols, search and rescue, and guide dogs for the blind. Even though they are one of the hardest working dog breeds, they can be a truly loyal family member. When at home the work takes second place to being the warm-hearted family pet.

5. Poodles

The Poodle comes in a size to fit any family. Standard, miniature, and toy. These dogs were once considered dainty dogs for the rich. But in fact, they started their journey in life as hunting dogs. They are smart, highly trainable, and love nothing more than being active outdoors. And let us not forget this breed has also helped in the creation of all those wonderful doodle breeds including the Labradoodle, Goldendoodle, Cavapoo, Bernadoodle, and the Sheepadoodle.

6. Bulldog

The Bulldog is definitely a breed with a very distinct look. These guys are great apartment dogs due to their low maintenance exercise needs, a short walk to do their business then it's about time for a nap. They have a tendency to overheat quickly so keep a good eye on them during the warmer months.

7. Beagle

The Beagle is a fun breed to have around. Their noses guide them through life, and can also get them in trouble, they're never happier than when on the trail of an interesting scent. Beagles originally were bred to help track small game, their job was to alert (bark) when they found whatever they were hunting. This trait carries over to the home. They will be sure to let you know if there is someone at your door. These dogs are quirky fun little packages. You’ll find these pups make loving, loyal family members.

8. Rottweiler

The Rottweiler (Rotties) s a well-recognized breed. They are known as dependable and hardworking, with a friendly manner. They are loyal, confident, and courageous, but are often depicted in the media in a negative manner due to their strong looks. Rottweilers aren't recommended for first-time dog owners as they can be stubborn. The breed may be territorial or protective of family, but this can be a good trait if proper socialization and training at a young age are provided, they can be a well-behaved lifelong companion.

9. Pointer (German shorthaired)

The German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) makes a great family dog but can be a handful. The German breeders who developed GSPs wanted friendly family pets, as well as hunting dogs, and boy did they succeed. This breed has an almost constant supply of energy, and a profound desire to be with their humans. A short walk or being let out to potty in the backyard is not going to be enough to fulfill a German Shorthaired Pointer's need for activity. This breed needs vigorous exercise daily.

10. Dachshund

The Dachshund (Wiener dog or sausage dog) These guys come in three different coat types smooth, wired, or long long-haired. Their cute appearance and lively disposition have inspired many nicknames for the breed, including wiener dog, hot dog, sausage dog, Doxie, and Dashie. They make awesome family pets and are usually great around kids. If you'd like to know what their personality could be? Written right into the official breed description is this "Any display of shyness is a serious fault".

Do you have a favorite dog breed? Let me know in the comments.