Every dog breed has its cult following, and every dog lover has their own choice. From loyal family companions to energetic working breeds, certain dogs have captured the hearts of millions across the country.
Whether it’s for their personality, intelligence, looks, or versatility, these breeds consistently rank among the most beloved dogs. According to Forbes, 86.9 million households in the United States own a pet, and 65.1 million among them have a dog. It makes dogs the most popular pets in America.
It is worth mentioning that the AKC includes only purebred dogs in their list. Hybrids or “designer” dogs do not classify on the list. Since 2022, the top five breed rankings have not changed, but other breeds have moved spots.
Here are the most popular dog breeds in America you should know.
Most Popular Dog Breeds In America You Should Know
1. French Bulldog
Since 2022, French Bulldogs have been at the top of the list for most popular dog breeds. Their charming personalities, smooshed faces, and adorable looks have been stealing hearts for years. They resemble the classic Bulldogs in appearance, except for their bat-like, erect ears.
Temperament
One of the best dogs for apartment dwellers, Frenchies have mixed demeanors. These smart and adaptable dogs have bright and affectionate personalities. They thrive on human interaction, so you cannot leave them alone for extended periods.
They don’t bark much, but their alertness makes them excellent watchdogs. A Frenchie will always keep you entertained with its playful antics.
Exercise Needs
These compact yet sturdy canines are known for their laid-back nature. Frenchies do not need extensive exercise for physical and mental stimulation. A short walk or outdoor play session will suffice. However, do not over-exercise your Frenchie, as it is a brachycephalic breed prone to respiratory issues.
Life Span
They have a life span of 10-12 years.
2. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever lost its crown as the most popular dog breed to the French Bulldog three years ago. Since then, they have been second on the list.
Temperament
Labradors have been described as friendly, outgoing, and fun-loving canines. Labs are quite intelligent and eager to please dogs who learn new commands easily. Their eager to please and gentle disposition make them excellent family pets.
These companionable dogs form strong bonds with their humans and socialize well with neighbor dogs and humans alike.
Exercise Needs
Labradors are athletic pooches full of energy. PDSA recommends around two hours of daily exercise for them. They excel at agility, obedience, tracking, and retrieving. Labradors were bred to retrieve waterfowl, so they have a natural affinity for water.
Their otter tail, thick water-repellent coat, and webbed feet allow them to swim through water.
Life Span
Labradors have a life span of 11–13 years.
3. Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is another popular dog breed in America. They have starred in the movie “Air Bud” and the TV show “Full House.”
Temperament
These intelligent dogs have a strong desire to please their owners, which makes them highly trainable. Goldens are the family-friendly dogs with a gentle disposition. These cheerful dogs make wonderful playmates for kids.
Exercise Needs
Golden Retrievers need a minimum of two hours of exercise every day for physical and mental enrichment. Regular walks, lots of running, and some extra play time help the dog stay healthy and happy. They are well-suited for owners with an active lifestyle.
Life Span
Goldens have a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years.
4. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are consistently making the AKC’s list of most popular dog breeds. They have been frequently used by law enforcement and as military and police dogs. Two GSDs named Rin Tin Tin and Strongheart even have stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, as mentioned by Britannica.
Temperament
These intelligent and hardworking dogs are known for their steadfast and courageous personality. GSDs are loyal mutts. They tend to be gentle around their family but are a bit reserved towards strangers. Due to this trait, they make excellent guard dogs.
Exercise Needs
GSDs are the active and athletic canines who require plenty of exercise every day for physical and mental enrichment. Without ample exercise, they will exhibit undesirable behaviors to channel their excess energy, as per PetMD.
Life Span
Your GSD will stay with you for a good 7–10 years.
5. Dachshund
Dachshunds are the vivacious dogs recognized by their long bodies and short legs. They are also known as “badger dogs” or “Wiener dogs.” These spunky canines come in two sizes: Standard and Miniature.
Temperament
Dachshunds’ inquisitive nature and social personalities add to their popularity. They are immensely loyal to their owners and are quite intelligent. However, these headstrong dogs have an independent streak, which makes training a bit difficult.
Exercise Needs
Many pet parents think Dachshunds don’t need more exercise due to their small size. However, regular physical activity helps protect their long backs. Two 30-minute walks of moderate length, on leash, every day should be sufficient.
Life Span
Dachshunds have a life expectancy of 12 to 16 years.
6. Rottweiler
Rottweilers are large, powerful, and agile dogs. With their imposing size and immense strength, they look like bruisers. Their broad chests and muscular bodies make them stand out.
Temperament
Rotties are one of the most intelligent dog breeds. They are easy to train and possess a strong desire to work. They might look intimidating, but Rotties are the real softies at heart.
They make devoted companions and excellent protectors. Training and socialization help keep their protective instincts in check.
Exercise Needs
Rottweilers are active and athletic dogs who need plenty of daily exercise for physical and mental stimulation. PetPlan recommends at least two hours of physical activity and mental enrichment every day.
Life Span
Rotties have an average life expectancy of 9 to 10 years. They don’t live as long as some other breeds due to their large size and vulnerability to certain health problems.
7. Beagle
Beagles are short-coated low maintenance dogs that have white-tipped tails, which make them easy to spot. Beagles were the 8th most popular dog breed on the 2023 list, as mentioned by the American Kennel Club, but they moved to the 7th position in 2024, as per the AKC.
Temperament
Beagles are hunting dogs with great curiosity and a strong sense of smell. They enjoy exploring new things and keeping their noses active. These cheerful dogs have peaceful and carefree personalities. Beagles are devoted companions and excellent family pets.
Beagles were bred to hunt in packs, so they feel the happiest when they have company. A Beagle left alone for longer periods can become destructive.
Exercise Needs
Like other dog breeds, Beagles also need regular exercise to stay healthy and content. These energetic dogs require one hour of daily physical activity. You can let your Beagle play in a fenced yard to burn off their energy or take them for walks.
Life Span
Beagles can live up to 10-15 years. But like all other dogs, they also become prone to health issues as they age.
8. Poodle
Poodles are one of the ancient dog breeds that have made regular appearances in dog shows. They were originally bred in Germany for retrieving waterfowl. Poodles come in three sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy.
All Poodle variants possess a hypoallergenic curly coat, making them suitable for allergy sufferers.
Temperament
Poodle personalities are as charming as their looks. These highly intelligent canines are known for their confident and playful demeanor. They are smart, easy to train, eager to please, and lots of fun to be around. Poodles can adapt well to various lifestyles.
Exercise Needs
Poodles are the active mutts with boundless energy. Regardless of their size, they need around one hour of exercise for physical and mental enrichment. They like to run, swim, and retrieve.
Life Span
Poodles can live up to 10 to 18 years.
9. German Shorthaired Pointer
Securing the same position on the list of the popular dog breeds in 2023 and 2024, German Shorthaired Pointers are characterized by their distinguished appearance that often features spots or “ticking.”
Temperament
German Shorthaired Pointers are eager to please and affectionate dogs who love their owners. These fiercely loyal canines do well around kids, but should not be allowed around smaller pets unsupervised due to their high prey drive.
Exercise Needs
GSPs are the enthusiastic and energetic gundogs who require lots of exercise to be happy. Around two hours of daily activity will suffice. When it comes to canine sports, GSPs are the jacks of all trades. They excel at agility, tracking, pointing, retrieving, and dock diving.
Life Span
The average life expectancy of German Shorthaired Pointers is 12 to 14 years.
Conclusion
Dogs have been the most popular pets in America for several decades. From muscular and agile Labrador Retriever to compact and sturdy French Bulldog, and curly Poodle, various dogs make the list of the most popular dog breeds in America.
Having a dog plays an important role in improving your overall well-being. It boosts your physical and mental health. Planning to adopt a popular breed? This list may help you understand their temperament and exercise needs.
