The American Kennel Club released its 2025 rankings of the nation’s most popular dog breeds, drawn from registration statistics that track purebred preferences nationwide. The French Bulldog maintained its position at number one for the fourth straight year, a streak that began when it displaced the longtime leader, the Labrador Retriever.[1][2] This continuity at the summit underscores steady demand for compact, adaptable companions, even as other breeds made gains further down the list. The annual snapshot reveals how urban living, family dynamics, and social media influences continue to steer American dog ownership trends.
A Familiar Face Leads the Pack
The French Bulldog’s reign shows no signs of fading. It first cracked the top 10 in the early 2000s but surged dramatically over the past decade, climbing from 14th place in 2012 to second in 2021 before claiming the top spot in 2022.[1] Experts attribute this rise to the breed’s small size and easygoing nature, which suit apartment dwellers and busy households alike. Their bat-like ears and expressive faces have also captured hearts on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
Before the Frenchie’s ascent, the Labrador Retriever dominated for 31 years, a record that highlights the breed’s versatility as a family pet, service dog, and hunting companion. That era ended abruptly in 2022, yet Labs held steady at number two in 2025, flanked by Golden Retrievers and German Shepherd Dogs in third and fourth.[3] These core favorites reflect enduring appeals: loyalty, trainability, and outdoor enthusiasm.
Shifts Reshape the Top 10
Notable movement occurred within the elite group. The Dachshund advanced from sixth to fifth place, edging out the Poodle, which slipped to sixth. This swap marked the wiener dog’s return to the top five after several years outside it.[1] Meanwhile, the German Shorthaired Pointer rose from 10th to ninth, while the Bulldog dropped one spot to 10th. Beagles, Rottweilers, and others stayed put, creating a stable yet dynamic leaderboard.
| 2025 Rank | Breed | 2024 Rank |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | French Bulldog | 1 |
| 2 | Labrador Retriever | 2 |
| 3 | Golden Retriever | 3 |
| 4 | German Shepherd Dog | 4 |
| 5 | Dachshund | 6 |
| 6 | Poodle | 5 |
| 7 | Beagle | 7 |
| 8 | Rottweiler | 8 |
| 9 | German Shorthaired Pointer | 10 |
| 10 | Bulldog | 9 |
Such changes often stem from relative surges rather than absolute declines. A breed’s drop might simply mean others gained faster ground, a nuance the AKC emphasizes in its analysis.[1]
Standouts Climbing the Charts
Beyond the top 10, several breeds posted impressive gains. The Cane Corso jumped from 14th to 11th, signaling growing interest in protective, athletic types. Hunting breeds like the Wirehaired Vizsla leaped 29 spots to 130th, while the German Shorthaired Pointer’s top-10 entry highlighted a broader uptick in versatile sporting dogs.[1] Working breeds overall showed strength, with the Giant Schnauzer advancing five places to 52nd after Westminster successes.
Longer-term risers include Australian Shepherds, now at 14th after gaining 20 positions since 2005, and Bernese Mountain Dogs, up 27 spots in the same period. These shifts point to demand for energetic herders and gentle giants suited to active families. The Dachshund’s recent boost during the 2020s further illustrates how playful personalities can fuel comebacks.[3]
City-by-City Preferences Emerge
While French Bulldogs led nationally, local tastes varied. They topped lists in most major cities, from Los Angeles and Chicago to Miami and Washington, D.C. Golden Retrievers claimed first in western hubs like San Francisco, Seattle, Portland, and Austin, often appealing to outdoor-oriented residents.[4]
Labrador Retrievers held sway in places like Denver and St. Louis, preserving their family-friendly reputation regionally. Poodles led in Albany, New York, underscoring how urban density and lifestyle needs influence choices. These patterns reveal a patchwork of preferences across the country.
What matters now: With 202 breeds recognized in 2025 and more additions slated for 2026, the rankings capture a diversifying pool of options. Compact urban adapters like Frenchies thrive amid apartment living, yet gains by hunters and workers suggest a renewed appreciation for dogs that match varied active pursuits.
The 2025 rankings affirm the French Bulldog’s foothold while spotlighting momentum elsewhere, from the Dachshund’s top-five push to hunting breeds’ advances. These trends mirror broader shifts in how Americans integrate dogs into modern life – prioritizing adaptability without sacrificing companionship. As new breeds enter the fold, the list promises continued evolution, reflecting the nation’s enduring bond with its canine companions.
