America's Preferred Canine Species: Top-Ranked Dog Breed
Everybody's Talking About the In genus Canis's Favorite-The French Bulldog
Look no further, my friend, 'cause the American Kennel Club (AKC) has spilled the beans on the most popular dog breed in the U.S. of A. once again. And guess who's taking the glory? You got it, the French Bulldog! This adorable furball has ruled the roost for three years straight, knocking the Labrador Retriever off the top spot after a 31-year reign.
To decide the most fashionable pooches in the land, the AKC examines its registration stats and tallies up the pets with the highest count.
They added the French Bulldog to their lineup way back in 1898, and ever since, they've been climbing up the ranks, especially in the cities and countryside across the USA. Their playful antics and petite size make them a good fit for various lifestyles, not to mention their undeniable cuteness. The AKC tells us that French Bulldogs have moved up the rankings steadily over the last 12 years, starting at No. 14 in 2012 and making it to the top three by 2021, before finally taking the top spot in 2022.
If you ask Martha, she'll tell you straight-up that Frenchies are the epitome of doggy perfection. She welcomed Luna Moona, a glossy black French Bulldog, into her family in 2024, and now Luna's gracing AKC dog shows. Maybe one day she'll bag the title of Best in Show!
Thinking about getting yourself a French Bulldog (or any doggo) to join your brood? Do your homework first to make sure you're getting a healthy pup from a responsible breeder. You can also find plenty of purebred pooches through breed-specific rescue groups.
This Year's Most Popular Pups-Or, Why Martha Choses the Frenchie Over Other Breeds## Top 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds of '24
You might notice that the top 10 favorite dog breeds don't change much from year to year, with only minor shifts in the rankings. This year's top five have lived up to their legacy, with a tad of switching around positions, as noted in parentheses next to each breed.
- French Bulldog - The uncontested ruler of the pack
- Labrador Retriever - Still a close second
- Golden Retriever - A consistent third place finisher
- German Shepherd Dog - A trusted guardian
- Poodle - Pilot of many a hot air balloon
- Dachshund - The long and low plucky sausage dog
- Beagle (+1) - The tiny hound with the big nose
- Rottweiler (+1) - A powerful, loyal companion
- Bulldog (-2) - The wrinkly-faced friend with the booming bark
- German Shorthaired Pointer (-2) - The sporty, agile, and affectionate hunter
The Ten Most Loved Lap Dogs in the USA-Here's Why Martha Loves the French Bulldog at Number Three
A few factors contribute to the ongoing popularity of French Bulldogs in the states:
- City Living: French Bulldogs' small size and limited exercise needs make them a great choice for those living in urban environments, fitting nicely in apartments and such.
- Random Appeal: Their peculiar bat-like ears and cute mugs grab people's attention and affection.
- Cheerful Temperament: French Bulldogs are loved for their friendly, affectionate, and playful personalities, earning them the label of "comical, friendly, little dogs."
- Celeb Love: This breed's popularity has gotten a boost from celebrity fans, like Lady Gaga, Leonardo DiCaprio, and others, helping to make them more visible and desirable.
- Low Maintenance: French Bulldogs' relatively quiet demeanor and minimal grooming requirements make them appealing to people who want low-key pets with fewer mishaps.
That being said, potential health problems, like respiratory issues and high vet bills, are things to keep in mind when considering a French Bulldog. Sounds like something Martha already knows!
In 2024, Martha Stewart made headlines by welcoming a French Bulldog named Luna Moona into her family, signifying her unwavering affection for the breed that placed third in the top 10 most popular dog breeds of that year. The French Bulldog's lasting popularity in the USA can be attributed to several factors, including their suitability for city life, unique physical features, cheerful temperament, celebrity endorsements, and low maintenance. Despite these charms, potential health issues and high vet bills should be carefully considered when deciding to get a French Bulldog.
