Most Popular Dog Breeds

The American Kennel Club releases a list every year...so here is their latest:

1.  Labrador Retrievers
This dog breed has been the most popular dog breed for many years now! Labs come in three colors, yellow, black, and chocolate. They were originally from Newfoundland and worked alongside fishermen. First recognized by the AKC in 1917.

2.  Yorkshire Terriers
Yorkies, a toy dog weighing only between four to seven pounds have long blue and tan coats and were originally used as ratters and named for Yorkshire, England. First recognized by the AKC in 1885.

3.  German Shepherds
This is the world's leading police, guard, and military dog. It originated in 1899 in Karlsruhe, Germany. It was first recognized by the AKC in 1908.

4. Golden Retrievers
This dog originated in the Scottish Highlands and was used for hunting and is not a popular guide dog. It was first recognized by the AKC in 1925.

5. Beagles
Beagles are one of the most popular hunting dogs and they come in two varieties (13 inches and 15 inches). This breed was first recognized by the AKC in 1885.

6. Boxers
A very powerful dog, they are strong guardians. Developed in Germany in the 1800's. It was first recognized by the AKC in 1904.

7. Dachshunds
Their name means "badger dog" in German, and were first bred way back in the early 1600's in Germany. They were first recognized by the AKC in 1885.

8. Bulldogs

No dog has a more characteristic look than the Bulldog. A mascot for too many schools and universities to mention. It was first recognized by the AKC in 1886.

9. Poodles
The Poodle comes in three sizes, Standard, Miniature, and Toy. It originated in Germany as a water retriever. It was first recognized by the AKC in 1887.

10. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is to toy dog that weighs between 9 to 16 pounds. It has a long flowing double coat and was prized as house pets by Chinese royals. It was a house pet for most of the Ming Dynasty. It was first recognized by the AKC in 1969.