– French Bulldog Continues its Remarkable Rise in Popularity –
New York, NY – Labrador Retriever lovers have spoken! The American Kennel Club (AKC®) announced today that the intelligent, family friendly breed has taken the #1 spot on the most popular list for the 23rd consecutive year, the longest reign at the top in AKC history.
“Owning bigger breeds – an economic indicator of sorts – have been on the rise during the past five years,” said AKC Spokesperson Lisa Peterson. “As the economy has improved, people are turning back to the big dogs they love, which cost more to feed and care for than the smaller breeds that saw a rise in popularity in 2007 and 2008.”
In addition to the Lab holding strong to its top spot, the French Bulldog has seen a sharp rise in popularity over the past decade, with a 323% increase in registrations since 2003. The affectionate, easy to care for Frenchie rose three spots this year to number 11, its highest position since the breed was recognized by the AKC in 1898. French Bulldogs are known to be loveable lap warmers and are easily adaptable to city or suburban living due to their easily groomed coats and minimal exercise requirements.
2013 Most Popular Dogs in the U.S.
1. Labrador Retriever
2. German Shepherd Dog
3. Golden Retriever
4. Beagle
5. Bulldog
6. Yorkshire Terrier
7. Boxer
8. Poodle
9. Rottweiler
10. Dachshund
Most Notable Dog Trends in 2013 Include:
- Comeback canines!These rare breeds, which have been on the decline over the past decade, made strong gains in 2013. Giant Schnauzers rose from 96 to 83; Keeshonden from 103 to 86; Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers from 104 to 97; Irish Terriers from 132 to 123; Kerry Blue Terriers from 130 to 126; Lakeland Terriers from 137 to 134; Sussex Spaniels from 169 to 162; and Dandie Dinmont Terriers from 172 to 168.
- In keeping with the popularity of large breeds, several members of the Working Group made double-digit gains over the past decade: Doberman Pinschers rose from 22 to 12; Great Danes from 27 to 16; and Bernese Mountain Dogs from 47 to 32.
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[EDITOR’S NOTE: Book an interview with an AKC Spokesperson by contacting Jessica Rice at 212-696-8346 or jxr3@akc.org. Photos from the press conference, including those representing the top five breeds, are also available upon request to members of the press.]