The Top 10 Dog Breeds

The Top 10 Dog Breeds -
By Popularity, Intelligence and more…

What are the top 10 most popular dog breeds in America?  Think you can name them all?  But more importantly, where do Shelties rank in this list? ;)

It depends how you define “top 10″.  The most common methods are by popularity among pet owners (judged by dog registrations) and by intelligence.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes 167 dog breeds but most people can only identify about 10% of dog breeds, while dog lovers may recognize around a quarter of them.

Top 10 Dog Breeds – By Popularity

These are the top ten dog breeds in 2011, ranked by popularity by pet owners, based on number of registrations with the American Kennel Club:

1. Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers, originally from Newfoundland, were initially used in work alongside fisherman, helping to pull in nets and catch fish that escaped from fishing lines.

This versatile hunting breed comes in three colors – yellow, black and chocolate – and because of their aptitude to please their master they excel as guide dogs for the blind, as part of search-and-rescue teams or in narcotics detection with law enforcement.

“Labs,” as they are  affectionately called, are gentle, intelligent and family-friendly. Hence why it continues to be the most popular breed in the United States.

2. German Shepherd

The German Shepherd Dog  originated in Germany around 1899. This breed is  hailed as the world’s leading police, guard and military dog, but this dependable breed is more than a working dog.

The German Shepherd Dog is also a loving family companion,  herder and show competitor. The breed is approachable, direct and fearless, with a strong, muscular body. The GSD may be most colors, but most commonly is black and tan.

3. Yorkshire Terrier

Named  for the English city from which they originally hail, Yorkshire Terriers were  used in the nineteenth century to catch rats in clothing mills.

Yorkshire Terriers, affectionately known as “Yorkies,” offer big personalities in a small package. Though members of the Toy Group, they are Terriers by nature and are brave, determined, investigative and energetic. They have long, luxurious blue and tan  coats.

4. Beagle

The Beagle is a small to medium-sized dog, standing under 15′. The breed’s hunting ability, combined  with a merry personality, has made the Beagle one of the most popular dogs in the United States.

Beagles are also favored for  their compact size and short easy to care for coat.  They naturally enjoy the company of other dogs and  humans. Curious and comedic, they often follow their noses–which can lead to some mischief if they are not provided with daily activity.

5. Golden Retriever

The working ability that has made Golden Retrievers such useful hunting companions also make them ideal guides, assistance and search and rescue dogs. The golden-colored coat is the hallmark of this versatile breed, and can range from light blond to dark gold.

Goldens are active, energetic and can adapt to many different living situations but do require regular daily exercise. Their water-repellant double-coat sheds seasonally and needs regular brushing. With their friendly temperament and striking golden color, this breed is  both beautiful to look at and a joy to own.

6. Bulldog

Said to have originated  in the British Isles, the name “bull” was  applied because of the dog’s connection with bull baiting. The original  bulldog had to be ferocious and courageous, and almost insensitive to pain. When dog fighting became illegal in England,  fanciers set to the task of preserving the breed by eliminating the fierce characteristics. Within a few  generations, the Bulldog became one of the finest physical specimens with an agreeable temperament.

Today, Bulldogs are recognized as excellent family pets because of their tendency to form strong bonds with children. They tend to be gentle and protective. The breed requires minimal grooming and exercise. However, their short nose makes them prone to overheating in warm weather, so they require cool, shady places to rest.

7. Boxer

Developed in Germany in the 19th century, Boxers were originally used for dog fighting and to run down and hold large game such as wild boar and bison until the hunter could  arrive. The breed is known for standing up on its hind legs and batting at its opponent, appearing to box with its front paws. Imported to America after World War I, they began to grow in popularity in the late 1930s.

While they are instinctive guardians, the Boxer loves to be with people. This personality trait has allowed them to succeed as couriers during war time and as seeing-eye dogs for the blind. The Boxer requires little grooming, but needs daily exercise.

8. Daschund

The Dachshund, meaning “badger  dog” in German, is a lively breed with a friendly personality and keen sense of smell. Known for their long and low bodies, they are eager hunters that excel in both above- and below-ground work.

Dachshunds are lovable, playful companions, and an ideal pet for many homes, including those with children with appropriate supervision. They require moderate exercise, and can adapt to most living environments. Depending on their coat type, Dachshunds may require regular grooming.

9. Poodle

The Standard Poodle originated in Germany as a water retriever. The stylish “Poodle clip” was designed by hunters to help the dogs move through the water more efficiently. The patches of hair left on the body are meant to protect vital organs and joints which are susceptible to  cold.

The Poodle, though often equated to the beauty with no brains, is exceptionally smart,  active and excels in obedience training. They can accommodate nearly any size living quarters and their hypoallergenic coat may reduce allergic reactions, but dues require regular professional grooming.

10. Shih Tzu

Cherished by Chinese royals as prized house pets for over a thousand years, it is believed to have descended from crossing the Lhasa Apso or Tibetan mountain dog and Pekingese.

A compact  and solid dog, the Shih Tzu’s long, flowing double coat is its most distinctive  feature. The word Shih Tzu means “lion” and although this dog is sweet and playful, they are not afraid to stand up for themselves!

As the sole purpose of the Shih Tzu is companion and house pet, they should be lively, alert, friendly and trusting towards all. They require minimal exercise, but the long,  luxurious coat needs daily brushing and maintenance.

Wondering where our dear Sheltie friends feature on the AKC’s dog breeds list? The Shetland Sheepdog comes in at #19, while the Collie comes in at #38.

Top 10 Dog Breeds – By Intelligence

• Understanding of New Commands: Fewer than 5 repetitions.
• Obey First Command: 95% of the time or better.

Based on that criteria, here is the rundown of the top 10 brightest dog breeds:

1. Border Collie
2. Poodle
3. German Shepherd
4. Golden Retriever
5. Doberman Pinscher
6. Shetland Sheepdog
7. Labrador Retriever
8. Papillion
9. Rottweiler
10. Australian Cattle Dog

Remember, a smart dog also needs lots of stimulation and must be exercised daily, or they will create obsessive and even destructive behaviors all on their own. Border Collies have a reputaton for doing this when bored!

Did You Know? Top Dog Breeds for People with Allergies

1. Bedlington Terrier
2. Bichon Frise
3. Chinese Crested
4. Irish Water Spaniel.
5. Kerry Blue Terrier
6. Maltese
7. Poodle
8. Portuguese Water Dog
9. Schnauzer
10. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Did You Know? Top 10 Dog Breeds Receiving Most Veterinary Care

According to the American Pet Productions Association, these are the 10 dog breeds who seem to be needing treatment most often:
1. Labrador
2. Bichon Frise
3. Chow Chow
4. Dachshund
5. Doberman
6. Irish Setter
7. Golden Retriever
8. Bassett Hound
9. Cocker Spaniel
10. Standard Poodles