For the 19th consecutive year, the Labrador Retriever is the most popular purebred dog in America, but could this be the last year for the Lab’s reign?
According to American Kennel Club® (AKC) 2009 registration 
statistics released today during a press conference at Grand Central Terminal in New York City, the German Shepherd overtook the Yorkshire Terrier last year and is now ranked second most popular in the nation for the first time in more than three decades.
An American favorite since the time of Rin Tin Tin, the German Shepherd became the number one breed of the 1920s, but then slipped in popularity until after World War II.
"Labs have been America’s top dog for nearly two decades due to their loyal and gentle nature," said AKC Spokesperson Lisa Peterson. "But the German Shepherd has gained ground recently, quite possibly due to the increased attention they receive for their security efforts at home and abroad. Hailed as the world’s leading police, guard and military dog, this energetic and fun-loving breed is a loyal family pet, ideal companion and dependable K-9 partner when duty calls."
2009 Most Popular Dogs in the U.S.
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
Sources: AKC Newsletter, February 2010
© 2010 Lyn Sims and The Blog Dog
I love my golden retreiver. I love his cousin a lab, it is hard to say which is more lovable or stupid. Yet stupid like a fox around food and fun.
One vote for poodle here. A couple of those dogs are on hit lists making it hard to travel with them. I have read they are also not welcome in some neighborhoods. Some campgrounds and hotels have breed and weight restrictions. Don't get me wrong I love all friendly dogs but folk should do their homework before commiting to a pet that will more than likely hold them back a times. Your breed selection may even affect your home owners insurance. While making travel plans for Florida about four years I found many places with dog restrictions. German Shephards and Boxers were a NO with everyone I talked with. Although my poodles are over most size restrictions everyone I spoke with laughed and told I could bring poodles. Poodles Rule!!!
Jay: The fluff factor of poodles! They are darn smart let me tell ya. We had one growing up that my Mom taught to do all kinds of stuff. Hated men though. Didn't know that about Boxers now? Obviously Pitt Bulls, Shepherds.
Larry: Both are great dogs.
Lyn
Your doggy looks so happy; my dog Lars is a shepherd and is the light of my life.
Lyn - Can I vote for a breed not on the list? Maybe they'd be # 11? I have two papillons that I love. They're smart as a whip too.
Jay - You're right about breed restrictions in Florida. I'm in south Florida, and I run into this all the time. I've even posted about it. There are places that are more pet friendly than others.
I don't care what the poll says. The Pekinese is my favorite - that's why we have 2 of them.
Elyse: Sure, there are alot of breeds that were left off don't you think? Not to mention, all the runts and Heinz 57's we've got out there.
Tom: Good name, Lars.
Elyse: Sure, there are alot of breeds that were left off don't you think? Not to mention, all the runts and Heinz 57's we've got out there.
Tom: Good name, Lars.
I myself have a yorkie. Interesting list-I had no idea what the popular ones were!
Lyn - My favorite breed is the All American Mutt. "Long live the Heinz 57!" I have a Black Labrador Retriever and his sister (by choice not blood) is half Black Lab. Unconditional Love with fur.
Suzanne: Mutts are great I agree! Some of the best dogs are mixed and unknown.
Shit Zhus are the best if you want a small dog you can pick up that won't slobber. Some are smarter than others, in this case the purebred male Ted is "simple" compared to my questionable litlle Lulu.
Love em both and wouldn't haveny other kind of dog.