The American Kennel Club released its 2015 registration data Monday, and for the 25th consecutive year the Labrador retriever was shown to be the most popular dog breed in the United States. The perennial favorite’s quarter century is the longest reign of any breed in AKC history.
“The versatile, lovable Lab has firmly planted its paw print in AKC’s history,” AKC Vice President Gina DiNardo said.
Labs seem to be popular with any and all dog lovers. Its importance to hunting is undeniable; its favor among families unparalleled.
While not in the Top Five, the French bulldog made waves as it climbed to Sixth Place.
“Keep your eye on the French bulldog,” DiNardo said. “The Frenchie has risen 32 spots over the past decade and shows no signs of stopping.”
The French bulldog was listed in Ninth Place in 2014.
Other movers and shakers in 2015 were the Cane Corso (up 12 from 47th to 35th), the Norwegian elkhound (up 12 from 100th to 88th), the wirehaired pointing griffon (up eight from 59th to 51st), and the Leonberger (up eight from 101st to 93rd).
The AKC’s Top 20 Breeds of 2015:
- Labrador retriever
- German shepherd
- Golden retriever
- Bulldog
- Beagle
- French bulldog
- Yorkshire terrier
- Poodle
- Rottweiler
- Boxer
- German shorthaired pointer
- Siberian husky
- Dachshund
- Doberman pinscher
- Great Dane
- Miniature Schnauzer
- Australian shepherd
- Miniature American shepherd
- Cavalier King Charles spaniel
- Shih tzu
For the full list of breeds and their placing, visit the AKC website.
Labradors are the best