Surprise: Bulldogs surge in new dog rankings; Labradors remain America’s top dog

Surprise: Bulldogs surge in new dog rankings; Labradors remain America’s top dog

Labradors have remained popular due to their iconic reputation as a dog that can do anything, whether it play a search-and-rescue role or serve as a family companion.

The Labrador retriever remains the most popular dog in America, but the bulldog has been gaining ground in the latest rankings by the American Kennel Club.

It was the Labrador’s 24th year at the top, breaking a record held by the poodle until 2013, and bulldogs have hit their highest point yet at No. 4 in the new rankings that will be released today, according to an Associated Press report.

French bulldogs, a separate breed, pulled into the top 10 for the first time in a century, and German Shepherds, beagles, and golden retrievers all held spots in the top 5. Yorkshire terriers, poodles, boxers, and Rottweilers were at the bottom of the top 10, and Dachshunds slipped to 11th after placing 10th last year.

The bulldog’s rise can be attributed to their appearance and calm character, according to Bulldog Club of America communications chairwoman Annette Noble, who was quoted in the report. She said the breed is known for being gentle and also capable of being thoughtful. The French bulldog, meanwhile, had a massive jump in the rankings, going from 49th to 9th in just a decade.

Labradors have been a top 10 dog in the United States since the 1970s, and have remained one of the most popular and iconic dogs in the U.S. over the span. Labs are popular because they are playfully and can fit just about any role, weather it be search-and-rescue work, sports, guide and therapy dog work, or simply a family companion.

The AKC’s rankings are based on puppies and newly registered dogs.

Dog breeding is not without its critics, as animal-rights activists claims that they lead to “puppy mills” and causes mixed-breed dogs to be abandoned or left in shelters where they may be put down for lack of an owner.

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