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… who is the top dog of them all?
I love when the American Kennel Club releases the official list of the most popular dog breeds in the country – and the 2009 list, just released yesterday, gives me a personal reason to smile.
German Shepherds are the second most popular dogs in the U.S.
While the faithful Lab Retriever is still holding tight to the number one spot (no surprise there; they’re definitely one of my favs, too), my personal favorite breed of all is finally giving the reigning pooch a run for its money. Coming in just behind the good ol’ Labs, German Shepherds took the number two spot for the first time in more than 30 years!
I grew up with German Shepherds (shout out to Pax and Mazie) and have always had a soft spot for them in my heart — especially shepherd mixes. In my book, there’s nothing like a mangy little mutt with ears that desperately try to stand up like a German Shepherd’s, but just can’t quite pull it off. I really do love all dogs, but I can’t be persuaded to believe that there’s a smarter or more loyal and protective breed out there.
Check out the list below to see if your favorite breeds made it into the top ten this year, or click here to see the full list and an historical comparison. And if you have a personal story about why your favorite breed is your favorite, please share… we’d love to hear about it!
Top Ten Most Popular Dogs in the U.S. – 2009
1. Labrador Retriever
2. German Shepherd
3. Yorkshire Terrier
4. Golden Retriever
5. Beagle
6. Boxer
7. Bulldog
8. Dachshund
9. Poodle
10. Shih Tzu
i have a lab and i agree they should be the number one dog in america.they are loyal,friendly,loving smart and sooooo cute..he was so easy to housebreak and to train.we love him so much.he is a chocolate lab named zeppelin and he is 2 year’s old.he was born on new’s day.
I”m glad to see that the Lab is #1. Best dog ever, I have a yellow lab named Willow and he is an amazing dog. The most loving companion anyone could want.
My dog….a heart beat at my feet!
I have had German Shepherds along with other dogs over the years. German Shepherds will always be the dog that makes me feel warm all over. Loyal, check. Loving, check. Intelligent, double check, fabulous four-legged friends – they have no equal. Love all all my past, present and future shepherds. And to the dog that set the standards for all other shepherds in my life – Chance. I love and miss you still.
I have a miniture Party Poodle. Very much a slow poke, but other wise, a sweet dog and and companion- no reason for anyone to fear her.
Hard to believe Pugs didn’t make the list. R.I.P. Buttons…May you sleep in the lap of our Lord for all eternity.
I have a 1/2 chihuahua 1/2 rat terrier and a chihuahua and they are the BEST dogs! I don’t need any rating to know this!
What? Where’s the bichon frise????
Great dogs on the list, all of them, but my heart belongs to this sweet natured little circus dog!
Hey um all dogs are cute i have an alaskan huscy and he like doesnt want to be nudered what do i do??????
I just purchased a GSD puppy (from a reputable breeder) just 2 weeks ago. I couldnt be more pleased. Hes really become part of the family. Nothing makes me happier than seeing him and my 18 month old daughter playing together or my daughter yelling “Bronco” to get him to come to her. Housebreaking was simple and basic obedience is moving right along at an unbelievable pace.