America sure does love its Labrador retrievers. For the 31st year in a row, the happy-go-lucky dog topped the American Kennel Club’s (AKC’s) annual breed popularity rankings, representing the most registrations in 2021. The group says the Lab’s temperament and versatility are just two of the traits contributing to its “perennial popularity.” “The versatile, family-friendly Labrador Retriever has solidified itself as America’s dog,” says AKC executive secretary, Gina DiNardo. “With its loving, outgoing personality and eager-to-please attitude, it’s no surprise the Lab has been able to continue its record-breaking run as the most popular breed in the U.S.” While AKC’s top dog might have been par for the course, the list was not without surprises. Notably, the poodle made a reappearance in the top five for the first time since 1997, nabbing spot No. 5 and bumping the bulldog to No. 6. Meanwhile, the French Bulldog maintained its runner-up position for the second year in a row, with the golden retriever and German Shepherd landing at Nos. 3 and 4, respectively. Other ‘movers and shakers’ on this year’s list include the Flat-Coated Retriever, which jumped 10 spots year-over-year to No. 93. Additionally, among the breeds that have made a comeback in the past decade are the Cane Corso (No. 68 in 2011 to No. 21 in 2021), the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon (No. 93 in 2011 and No. 60 in 2021), and the Giant Schnauzer (No. 96 in 2011 and No. 65 in 2021). “As always, we encourage people to do their research to make sure they are not just getting a purebred dog, but most importantly a well-bred dog from a responsible breeder,” DiNardo says. To view AKC’s complete rankings, click here.
