As time goes on, some dog breeds are becoming favorites among those who love dogs and their families. Even as Labrador Retrievers and French Bulldogs are still popular, new types of dog breeds are gaining many fans. The French Bulldog has secured the No.1 spot as the most popular dog breed in the United States for the third year in a row.
They are gaining popularity because they are smart, loyal, and have special traits that fit many types of life. If you’re familiar with dog breeds or want to know, this blog can help you make a good decision.
Social media plays an important role in popularizing specific breeds, such as TikTok and Instagram. It’s common for these videos to highlight many other breeds that look pretty, and that are often described as energetic dogs.
To choose a dog breed as a pet, dog lovers prefer those that have fewer genetic problems and live longer. People choose these because they want to avoid costly health issues, and they don’t want to lose their lovely pets. Read on to find your perfect match.
Dog Breeds Rising Fastest in Popularity
1. Cane Corso
Height: 23.5–27.5 inches
Weight: 90–120 pounds
Lifespan: 9–12 years
There has been a big increase in the popularity of the Cane Corso, aka the Italian mastiff. According to the AKC, the breed popularity moved from 47th place in 2014 to 14th in 2024.
The Cane Corso was first bred to protect properties and is famous for being faithful and protective. Still, as it becomes more popular, people are inquisitive about how well it is trained and who owns it.
They need to be taught from an early age, as they are both smart and willful. A shortage of leadership can cause individuals to act in aggressive ways.
Urban Adaptability: Can easily live in an apartment if given enough exercise. But because they are big and like to guard, they need a secure yard to feel comfortable.
2. Belgian Malinois
Height: 22–26 inches
Weight: 40–80 pounds
Lifespan: 12–14 years
Because of its agility and intelligence, the Belgian Malinois is becoming a favorite among active dog owners. In both police and military settings, this breed is known to love being mentally and physically active.
More people are choosing these dogs because they love their energy and the way they work in obedience and protection. Those interested in the breed should know that they will need to provide plenty of exercise for their Malinois, according to Orvis.
With a lean, athletic body, they’re preferred for agility sports and working roles like police and military service. Their long lifespan and high intelligence attract dog sport enthusiasts and active singles or couples.
Celebrity Popularity: Featured in movies like Dog (2022) and used by Navy SEALs, boosted the breed’s recognition.
3. Goldendoodle
Height: Miniature: 13–20 inches; Standard: 20–24 inches
Weight: Miniature: 15–35 pounds; Standard: 50–90 pounds
Lifespan: 10–15 years
Golden Retriever and Poodle make up the Goldendoodle, and the breed captures the best traits from each. Because it is friendly and its coat doesn’t cause allergies, this hybrid is popular with families and allergy sufferers. Its popularity keeps rising because of its adaptability and affectionate character.
Choose from toy, miniature, and standard sizes, as they are suitable for any living space. Many people use them as therapy & service dogs because they are kind and often know when their owners need them.
Multiple size options suit everything from small apartments to large homes. PetMD states that their friendly nature, long lifespan, and low-shedding coat make them the go-to family and allergy-friendly dog.
4. Bracco Italiano
Height: 21–27 inches
Weight: 55–90 pounds
Lifespan: 10–14 years
The Bracco Italiano, an ancient breed with roots in Italy, is making a notable comeback. Originally bred for hunting, this breed is characterized by its distinctive appearance and gentle temperament.
Known for being devoted and affectionate, they are surprisingly well-suited to being around children. While they are calm when inside, they work very hard in outdoor situations. Purina mentions that if they do not get daily walks or play, they may start behaving badly.
Their robust but elegant build appeals to outdoor lovers. Families appreciate their loving temperament and long lifespan, and hunters admire their endurance and work ethic
5. American Staffordshire Terrier
Height: 17–19 inches
Weight: 40–70 pounds
Lifespan: 12–16 years
Even though it is often misunderstood, the American Staffordshire Terrier is recognized for being both affectionate and loyal. If you train and socialize them well, this breed becomes an excellent pet for any family.
More people choosing dogs now reveals that people are moving away from judging breeds and toward judging dogs based on their actions.
Ownership of this breed is still prohibited in some areas by BSL (Breed-Specific Legislation). Tell potential owners to look into the laws in their area. Many people mix up Pit Bulls with American Bully, but they are a different breed with a more carefully controlled background and personality.
6. Kerry Blue Terrier
Height: 17.5–19.5 inches
Weight: 30–40 pounds
Lifespan: 12–15 years
People who love dogs are being drawn to the Kerry Blue Terrier because of its special blue-gray coat and lively character. Because they were first raised in Ireland as hunting and herding dogs, they are now recognized for their intelligence and adaptability. As more people come to appreciate the Kerry Blue, its popularity is increasing.
The soft coat of the Kerry Blue means it causes less dander, making it more suitable for people with allergies. They are loyal to their family and may be suspicious of people they don’t know. Starting socialization early is very important, as stated by WebMD.
Medium size and non-shedding coat appeal to clean freaks. They’re ideal for people seeking a smart, independent dog that’s still manageable in size and lifespan.
7. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Height: 17–21 inches
Weight: 35–50 pounds
Lifespan: 12–14 years
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, affectionately known as the “Toller,” is the smallest of the retriever breeds. Despite its size, the Toller is an energetic and intelligent dog, excelling in activities like agility and obedience.
Its rise in popularity reflects a growing interest in versatile breeds that can adapt to various lifestyles.
Likely to scream a high-pitched sound when they are excited or upset. Although it is a rare breed, numbers have risen in many countries, including the U.S., Canada, and Europe.
Conclusion
Changes in how people live and what they like are causing the list of popular dog breeds to change. People are now choosing dogs like the Cane Corso and Goldendoodle because they have qualities that fit today’s dog owners.
Regardless of whether you want a guardian, a playful pet, or a pet that won’t cause allergies, the breeds above can suit your needs. As usual, people looking to get a dog should look into their lifestyle to find the best match for them.
