There is a new top dog in town! The French Bulldog has ended the Labrador Retriever’s 31-year reign as the American Kennel Club’s ‘Most Popular Dog Breed in America.’
As the world’s largest registry of purebred dogs, the AKC uses its registration statistics to rank the most popular breeds of the past year.
“In 2012, the Frenchie was ranked at No. 14. Since then, registrations have increased by over 1,000%, bringing this playful breed to the top. French Bulldogs held the No. 2 spot in 2021,” said the AKC online.
Breaking the Lab’s top-dog status of over three decades is no small feat. The Frenchie is a smart, compact breed, and they can fit into various different lifestyles, perfect for people all across the country.
“This petite dog was first recognized by the AKC in 1898; they are beloved by everyone from families to single owners for their charming and adaptable nature. They have surged in popularity in cities across the country since their small size and generally quiet demeanor make them good fits for apartments and smaller homes.”
Aside from this massive move, the top five list looks a bit familiar.
The Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, German Shepherd Dog, and Poodle take ranks two through five, respectively.
At the bottom of the list (Nos. 197 through 199) are the Sloughi, Norwegian Lundehund, and English Foxhound.
Last year, the Norwegian Lundehund was at the bottom, but they have surpassed English Foxhounds in registration over the past year. English Foxhounds, like their American Foxhound cousins, were bred as agile, scent-driven hunting dogs.
