When it comes to dogs, one thing’s for sure—our love for them never goes out of style. Each year, popular dog breeds shift just a little, whether it’s thanks to a trending TikTok pup, a celebrity showing off their furry best friend, or families simply falling for a lovable face and loyal temperament.
According to the American Pet Products Association, about 68 million US households own at least one dog, making them the most popular pet in the country.
Whether you’re looking for a dog breed with an affectionate nature, highly trainable instincts, or one that thrives on regular exercise, the list of most popular dog breeds is packed with furry personalities ready to steal hearts.
So if you’re on the lookout for a new four-legged friend, or just curious about which popular dog is about to take over your local dog park, you’re in the right place. Let’s take a look at the most popular dog breeds predicted to dominate this year!
Dog Breeds Predicted to Be the Most Popular This Year
1. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is a longtime favorite among dog owners, and it’s easy to see why. These dogs are friendly, playful, and known for their affectionate nature toward everyone, including kids and other dogs.
Labs are energetic and highly trainable, which makes them great for families and active owners. They love water and enjoy games like fetch, swimming, and hiking. A Lab thrives with regular exercise and mental stimulation, so keeping them active is key.
This dog breed was America’s top pick for 31 years before the French bulldog took over. Still, the Lab holds strong as one of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S. and ranks first in Australia with over 7,400 pet owners.
Labs are also known for their “otter-like” tails, which help them swim. But be careful—constant wagging can sometimes lead to “happy tail” injuries.
2. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog has officially claimed the title of the most popular dog breed in the U.S. for the third year in a row, according to the American Kennel Club. After slowly rising in popularity over the last decade, this small dog finally dethroned the Labrador Retriever in 2022—and hasn’t looked back since.
It’s easy to see why. With their bat-like ears, wrinkled faces, and lovable waddle, Frenchies are compact, playful, and full of personality. They adapt well to apartment living, need minimal grooming, and enjoy short walks and indoor play. Their affectionate nature and easygoing vibe make them great for families and city dwellers alike.
Britannica mentions that the French Bulldog is a brachycephalic dog breed, meaning they have a flat face. This unique feature can lead to health issues like brachycephalic airway syndrome, ear infections, and back problems. Regular ear cleaning and proper care can help prevent some of these concerns.
3. Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular breeds in both the US, ranking third on the AKC list. Known for their golden coats and playful nature, Goldens are loved by families, kids, and other pets alike.
They’re intelligent, gentle, and respond well to consistent training. Their affectionate personality makes them great with children, and they’re one of the top service dogs, often working as therapy animals or guide dogs for the visually impaired.
Golden Retrievers thrive on activity. They enjoy swimming, long walks, and backyard games. With proper care and a large breed-specific diet, they stay healthy and happy.
As one of the most sought-after breeds, Goldens continue to win hearts everywhere. Their mix of friendliness, energy, and emotional warmth makes them true family favorites.
4. German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is a strong, intelligent breed known for its loyalty and versatility. They’ve long been favorites in police, military, and search-and-rescue roles thanks to their focus and protective instincts.
This breed has an energetic personality and needs both physical exercise and mental challenges to stay balanced. Long walks, training games, and purposeful tasks help them thrive at home.
To raise a well-adjusted German Shepherd, early socialization and proper training are essential. They learn quickly but need consistency, structure, and a confident handler to reach their full potential.
Choosing a responsible breeder is also key, as it helps ensure sound temperament and health. While they can be reserved with strangers, their devotion to their family runs deep. With the right upbringing, they become loyal protectors and reliable companions.
5. Poodle
As an athletic, smart, and good-natured breed, the Poodle rounds out the top five most popular dog breeds. It comes in three sizes—Standard, Miniature, and Toy—making it a flexible choice for many homes.
Their curly hair is one of their standout traits. Poodles have hypoallergenic coats, which may help reduce allergic reactions for some people. But these curls need regular care, including brushing every other day and clipping every six weeks.
Despite the grooming needs, they’re worth the effort. Poodles are highly intelligent, easy to train, and full of playful energy. They are loving, sweet, and great for active families looking for ideal companions.
Though mixed breeds like Labradoodles have gained attention, the purebred Poodle still deserves the spotlight. Like all breeds, they can be prone to some health problems such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, so routine care and maintenance are essential.
6. Beagle
Beagles are famously led by their nose and are known for their big personality. They are affectionate, curious, and active, with a strong love for adventure and wagging tails.
Royal Canin states that its powerful sense of smell comes from having about 220 million scent receptors. Once they catch a scent, they’ll likely follow it, ignoring your calls until they’re satisfied.
With their signature floppy ears, Beagles are playful and love being around people and other dogs. They require regular exercise and enjoy mentally stimulating activities, like snuffle mats at mealtime.
Beagles can be a bit willful and have short attention spans, but their food motivation helps during training. They’re best known as Snoopy’s breed, but real-life Beagles are just as lovable.
Moving from No. 8 to No. 7 on the AKC’s 2024 list, Beagles continue to climb toward the top spot, charming families around the world with their carefree and companionable nature.
7. Rottweiler
Rottweilers are loyal working dogs that love their human family and are eager to please. They are intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement, but may develop unwanted behaviors if not mentally engaged.
They require plenty of physical activity and enjoy running, hiking, dock diving, and tracking. Mental stimulation is just as important to keep them focused and content. While their large size and guarding nature can seem intimidating, Rottweilers have expressive faces and are deeply affectionate with those they trust.
They can be prone to health problems, including obesity, so feeding recommended portions of a vet-approved diet is important.
Some may also deal with allergies, which require monitoring and care. Rottweilers moved up a spot in the AKC rankings this year, showing that beneath their bold exterior lies a protective and devoted companion.
8. Dachshund
Dachshunds are instantly recognizable with their long bodies and short legs, originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers. Their bold, determined nature often surprises people given their small size, but they’ve always been fearless and independent.
They come in two sizes—standard and miniature—and three coat types: smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired, each bringing its own charm and grooming needs. Despite their hunting roots, they love cuddling and often form strong bonds with their families.
Dachshunds can be a bit stubborn, but they’re also clever and spirited. With patience and positive reinforcement, they respond well to training and can even excel in agility and scent-based games.
Because of their unique shape, it’s important to protect their backs—avoiding too much jumping or stair climbing can help prevent spinal injuries. With the right care, these little dogs bring a huge personality into any home.
9. German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer, or GSP, is a high-energy hunting companion known for its speed, endurance, and intelligence. This breed holds its position in the top ten, maintaining steady popularity from 2023 to 2024.
GSPs are adventurous and athletic, making them perfect for active owners who enjoy outdoor life. They excel in running, fetching, agility, and even swimming, thanks to their webbed feet. Though naturally inclined to water, some puppies may need gentle encouragement to swim.
Their distinctive coats feature ticking, also known as “fur freckles,” which stand out among other dog breeds and some mixed breeds. While they’re relatively low-maintenance, regular brushing helps keep their coat in good condition.
Conclusion
From energetic runners to laid-back lap dogs, the most popular dog breeds each offer something special. Whether you’re looking for a loyal protector, a playful family companion, or a pup that fits well in a smaller space, there’s a dog breed to suit every lifestyle.
Before bringing a new pup home, always consider your space, schedule, and ability to commit to proper training, regular exercise, and long-term care. Partnering with a responsible breeder or visiting a rescue can help ensure a good match. Don’t forget the importance of early socialization and regular vet checkups to support a healthy, happy life.
No matter which path you choose, dogs bring love, loyalty, and laughter into our lives—and that’s why they’ll always remain close to our hearts.
