What better place to start a list of most popular dogs than the Golden Retriever? One of the most popular breeds in the United States, Golden Retrievers are from the sporting dog family, although in recent years there has been a divergence between “showier” Goldens and sporting Goldens. Regardless, these dogs are strong, hard-working, steadfast companions.
Perhaps what makes them so popular is the balance between hard-working effort and absolute silly playfulness that Goldens can exhibit. They are generally intelligent and friendly, good with both other dogs and children; however, it is important to note that they have a very active energy level and require some form of daily exercise. Overall, Goldens are devoted companions that are certainly eager to please their human.
If you can handle the occasional groom and seasonal shedding, Golden Retrievers are the perfect dogs for both families and those who like to be outdoors and active, whether it be hunting, hiking, exercise, or just some good ole’ fashioned play.
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The Poodle, in all of its wonderful varieties, is an exceptionally intelligent breed that is as active and energetic as it proud and magisterial. If you are looking for a dog that will excel in obedience training or loves to learn and play, then the Poodle is a breed you should seriously consider. They are almost always eager to please and will appreciate every opportunity to demonstrate this through exercise, training, and play.
If you have allergies or just do not want to add the chore of cleaning up extra hair around the house, the Poddle is hypoallergenic and rarely sheds (although they do love a good, daily groom – a nice brushing will do just the trick)! They are also good with children, but do require some supervision when interacting with other dogs.
With a long average life expectancy, the Poodle is an excellent companion for those who desire a very intelligent and active companion. For more information on Poodles, visit http://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/poodle .
Year in and year out, the German Shepherd is consistently one of the most popular breeds and is always highly ranked by the American Kennel Club. A member of the herding group of dog breeds, German Shepherds are generally considered to be one of the best all-around work dogs out there. This may be due to the rare combination of exceptional size, intelligence, agility, and speed, all of which suit them for a variety of roles in life. The AKC even describes them as “a true dog lover’s dog.”
Being from the herding group and bred to work, they do require regular activity and exercise, both mentally and physically. While they do require supervision when interacting with other dogs, German Shepherds are good with children and most other humans. You will have to stay vigilant with a brush and vacuum, however, as they do shed frequently.
With males getting up to 90lbs. and females getting up to 70lbs., these large, confident, and courageous dogs were meant for those who want a dog that can do it all!
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Year after year, the Labrador Retriever has been consistently ranked as the top breed in the United States, and with good reason! Originally hailing from the great Canadian north, Labrador Retrievers are as gentle as they are smart, and certainly family-friendly. Their popularity is due, in part, to their renowned versatility. They thrive in a variety of roles, as service dogs, search-and-rescue dogs, athletes, hunters, or playtime companions. They are also very adaptable to a variety of living situations, living it up in smaller apartment settings (with regular exercise) just as they would on farms and country homes.
Labs are traditionally good with families and love interacting with others through play; they are certainly high-spirited and proud of it. They do shed seasonally, but only require occasional grooming. Labs are known for their distinctive yellow, black, and chocolate colorations.
There is a reason Labrador Retrievers are consistently ranked the top breed in the US, and it is certainly not hard to see why. For more information on the breed, visit here!
With their trademark shuffling gait and large, short-faced head, the Bulldog is as instantly recognizable as it is loved. Ranked consistently in the top 10 most popular breeds by the American Kennel Club, the bulldogs’ adorable wrinkles match its gentle and lovable disposition. They come in a variety of coat colors and patterns, but they are always as hilarious as they are proud and dignified.
While males can get up to 50lbs. and females up to 40lbs., they certainly love to behave like lap dogs at times. But, do not let their medium-energy disposition fool you; Bulldogs love a good playful romp and do require regular walks to keep them happy and healthy. They are also good with both children and other dogs. While they only shed seasonally, they do require weekly grooming.
Originating from the British Isles, Bulldogs have become quite the popular breed here in the US. While they may not fit more active lifestyles, you cannot deny their amusing and gentle nature. For more details on the Bulldog, click here!