No doubt about it… Americans are in love with dogs. There are close to 75 million dogs in the U.S., and 39 percent of households own at least one dog, according to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association. Twenty-five percent of dog owners run a two-dog family.
The mixed breed, or “mutt,” is the type of dog most commonly owned, but a number of specific breeds top the list for popularity. According to the American Kennel Club, the ten most popular breeds in the U.S. are, in order of popularity:
- Labrador retriever
- Yorkshire terrier
- German shepherd
- Golden retriever
- Beagle
- Boxer
- Dachshund
- Bulldog
- Poodle
- Shih tzu
The Labrador retriever is a perennial favorite – this adored breed has been number one on the list for eighteen years. The AKC reports that Lab registrations beat out every other registered breed by more than two to one. While there are more than 400 breeds around the world, the AKC recognizes only about 170 of them. For an interesting explanation of why, read this blog on Webvet.
The popularity of dog breeds can change from year to year, even though favorites seem to remain on the list. Breed popularity may be based on any number of factors -- which dog wins Best of Show at the renowned Westminster Dog Show, whether certain breeds get media attention, or just because of societal trends. Breed popularity also differs by geography. In more urban areas, for example, smaller dogs tend to be more popular.
Dog Tag Art recognizes and celebrates dog breeds with our special line of dog tags for dogs. We offer over twenty breeds silhouetted against colorful backgrounds, as well as other tags that reference different breeds in one way or another.
Whatever breed you own, or even if you just have a lovable mutt, there’s a tag that’s right for you!
