The American Kennel Club released its annual rankings of the most popular dog breeds for 2025, drawing from registration data across 202 recognized breeds.[1][2] French bulldogs secured the top position for the fourth consecutive year, while dachshunds climbed into the fifth spot for the first time in more than two decades.[2] This shift highlights evolving preferences among American dog owners, influenced by lifestyle changes and social media trends.
French Bulldogs Cling to the Throne Despite Slowing Momentum
Registrations for French bulldogs reached about 54,000 in the past year, marking a notable decline from the previous period when numbers doubled that figure.[2] The breed first overtook Labrador retrievers in 2022 after a rapid ascent from 14th place in 2012. Their compact size and adaptability suit urban apartments and city living perfectly.
AKC spokesperson Brandi Hunter Munden noted that breed popularity surges often fade in the social media age, with some breeders opting out of club registrations.[2] Health concerns for flat-faced breeds have sparked public discussions, yet French bulldogs remain dominant in numerous cities. They lead rankings in places like Atlanta, Baltimore, and Los Angeles.[3]
Dachshunds’ Surprise Surge Captivates Owners
Dachshunds advanced from sixth to fifth place, displacing poodles from the top tier after narrowly missing it last year.[1][4] This marked their highest national ranking since over 20 years ago. Originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers, these long-bodied, short-legged dogs bring bold personalities and expressive faces to homes nationwide.
Longtime dachshund enthusiast Trudy Kawami described them as amusing and vocal companions that brighten daily life.[2] Social media images of dachshunds in costumes have boosted visibility, though Kawami cautioned against underestimating their hunting instincts. The breed appears in top city lists, including third in Los Angeles and fourth in New York City.[3]
Steady Favorites Anchor the Top Ranks
Labrador retrievers held second place after their 31-year reign at number one ended in 2022. Golden retrievers stayed at third, while German shepherd dogs maintained fourth.[1] These enduring choices reflect demand for versatile family dogs and working breeds.
Poodles slipped to sixth, with beagles, Rottweilers, German shorthaired pointers, and bulldogs rounding out the top 10. Here is the complete list:
- French Bulldog
- Labrador Retriever
- Golden Retriever
- German Shepherd Dog
- Dachshund
- Poodle
- Beagle
- Rottweiler
- German Shorthaired Pointer
- Bulldog
City Variations Reveal Local Tastes
French bulldogs topped lists in over 20 major cities, from Chicago to Miami. Golden retrievers and Labrador retrievers frequently placed second or third across regions.
Dachshunds gained traction in spots like Jacksonville, Orlando, and Oakland. In Denver, they ranked fifth, while Nashville placed them fourth. Other notables included poodles leading in Albany and Rottweilers strong in several Midwest areas.[3]
| City | Top Breed | Dachshund Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | French Bulldog | 3 |
| New York City | French Bulldog | 4 |
| Denver | Labrador Retriever | 5 |
| Jacksonville | French Bulldog | 5 |
These patterns underscore how urban density favors smaller breeds, while suburbs lean toward larger ones.
AKC rankings offer a snapshot of purebred preferences, reminding owners to prioritize fit over trends. Research breeds thoroughly to match lifestyles and avoid health pitfalls in rising stars.[2] What breed tops your list, and why? Share in the comments below.
