Illinois – Labrador retrievers secured the number one position as the most popular dog breed in the state for 2025, according to registration statistics from the American Kennel Club.[1][2] This longstanding favorite edged out the French bulldog, which claimed the national top spot. The rankings highlight preferences among purebred dog owners across the Land of Lincoln, excluding mixed breeds.[1]
Labs Defy National Shift to Retain Illinois Crown
Labrador retrievers maintained their lead in Illinois despite the French bulldog’s surge to the forefront nationwide. The AKC compiled these state-specific figures from purebred registration numbers throughout 2025. This outcome underscores a preference for the versatile Lab in a state known for its diverse landscapes, from urban centers to rural farmlands.
Golden retrievers followed closely in third place, mirroring their strong national performance. German shepherds rounded out the top four, appealing to families and working dog enthusiasts alike. The consistency in the upper ranks reflects steady demand for these reliable breeds.[1]
Illinois’ Complete Top 10 List
The full roster of Illinois’ most registered breeds offers a clear snapshot of local tastes. Here are the top 10, in order:
- Labrador retriever
- French bulldog
- Golden retriever
- German shepherd
- Dachshund
- Poodle
- Rottweiler
- Beagle
- German shorthaired pointer
- Bulldog
This lineup largely aligns with broader trends but swaps the top two spots compared to the country as a whole.[2]
State vs. Nation: Key Differences Emerge
While French bulldogs topped the national charts for the fourth consecutive year, Illinois residents favored Labs in the top position. Nationally, the order ran as follows: French bulldog first, Labrador retriever second, Golden retriever third, German shepherd dog fourth, Dachshund fifth, Poodle sixth, Beagle seventh, Rottweiler eighth, German shorthaired pointer ninth, and Bulldog tenth.[1] In Illinois, Rottweilers climbed to seventh, ahead of Beagles at eighth.
| Rank | Illinois | National |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Labrador retriever | French bulldog |
| 2 | French bulldog | Labrador retriever |
| 3 | Golden retriever | Golden retriever |
| 4 | German shepherd | German shepherd dog |
| 5 | Dachshund | Dachshund |
Such variations highlight regional loyalties. The French bulldog’s rise has drawn attention due to health concerns like brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, yet its popularity persists.[1]
City Spotlight: Chicago Bucks the State Trend
Urban areas tell a different story. In Chicago, French bulldogs took the lead, followed by Golden retrievers, Bulldogs, Labrador retrievers, and German shepherds.[3] This city-specific data from the AKC contrasts with statewide figures, where Labs dominated.
Nearby St. Louis mirrored Illinois more closely, with Labrador retrievers first, French bulldogs second, Golden retrievers third, Rottweilers fourth, and Bulldogs fifth.[1] These differences suggest metropolitan influences versus broader state preferences.
Across Illinois, the rankings remained stable in many positions year over year, with few dramatic shifts.
Key Takeaways:
- Labrador retrievers topped Illinois registrations, unlike the French bulldog’s national win.
- Top five breeds showed strong overlap between state and country.
- Chicago favored French bulldogs, reflecting urban trends.
Illinois’ embrace of Labrador retrievers signals enduring appeal for a breed synonymous with loyalty and adaptability. As AKC data shapes choices for prospective owners, these rankings offer valuable insight into the state’s canine companions. Which breed ranks highest on your list? Share your thoughts in the comments.
