French bulldog leads canine popularity poll
Once again, the French bulldog has claimed the title of America’s favorite dog breed, the American Kennel Club is reporting.
For the second consecutive year, the tiny titan continued to top the rankings at the No. 1 spot.
The Labrador retriever, who had a more than three-decade run as the nation’s most popular breed during 2023, placed second. Not far behind: the golden retriever.
The nation’s top five most popular dog breeds:
1. French Bulldog: French bulldogs average 11 to 13 inches in height and about 28 pounds and have a smooth, short coat of hair. They’re known for being affectionate with family and children and are good with other dogs. The breed lives an average of 10 to 12 years.
2. Labrador retriever: Labrador retrievers grow to be nearly 25 inches in height and can weigh up to 80 pounds. They are outgoing and affectionate with families, children and friendly with other dogs. They have shorter hair, are easy to train and have high energy. The breed lives an average of 11 to 13 years.
3. Golden retriever: With their long, silky hair, golden retrievers came in third on the list. The breed stands about 21-24 inches and weigh 55-65 pounds, depending on their sex (females often are smaller). They are devoted to their owners and also good with families and children. The breed averages a lifespan of 10 to12 years.
4. German shepherd: Not far behind, the German shepherd placed fourth on the list. The breed stands anywhere from 22-26 inches tall and weighs 50-90 pounds, also depending on their sex. They are highly trainable, have medium-long coats and are often used in law enforcement. They also are affection with families and good with children. The breed lives an average of 7 to10 years.
5. Poodle: Be it standard, miniature, or toy, poodles average about 10-15 inches both in in height and weight. They are smart, have curly coats of hair but shed little. They’re affectionate with families and children, highly trainable and need mental stimulation. Poodles average a lifespan from 10 to 18 years.