The latest rankings from the American Kennel Club are in, and for the fourth year in a row, the French Bulldog has claimed the title of America’s most popular dog breed.
The breed first surged to the top in 2022, ending the remarkable 31-year streak held by the Labrador Retriever. While Labs no longer sit at No. 1, they continue to rank among the country’s most beloved companions.
Founded in 1884, the American Kennel Club now recognizes over 200 breeds, using annual registration data to track shifting trends in popularity. Beyond rankings, the organization also plays a major role in promoting responsible breeding practices, conducting thousands of inspections each year to help ensure the health and well-being of dogs nationwide.
The Rise of the Frenchie
The French Bulldog has skyrocketed in popularity over the past decade, thanks largely to its compact size, affectionate personality, and ability to thrive in apartments and urban settings.
Back in 2012, the breed ranked No. 14. By 2021, it had climbed to No. 2—and just a year later, it officially became America’s top dog. Originally developed in France and recognized by the AKC in 1898, the Frenchie now boasts more than a century of history in the United States.
Top 10 Dog Breeds of 2025
This year’s top 10 includes some familiar favorites, with only minor shifts in position:
- French Bulldog
- Labrador Retriever
- Golden Retriever
- German Shepherd Dog
- Dachshund
- Poodle
- Beagle
- Rottweiler
- German Shorthaired Pointer
- Bulldog
Notably, the Dachshund climbed into the top five, nudging the Poodle just outside that group. Meanwhile, most of the top breeds held steady, reflecting their enduring popularity.
Biggest Movers of the Year
While the top 10 remained relatively stable, other breeds saw significant movement across the rankings.
The Wirehaired Vizsla made the biggest leap, jumping 29 spots. Other notable risers included the Bergamasco Sheepdog, English Foxhound, and Black and Tan Coonhound, all gaining ground as interest in working and hunting breeds grew.
The Cane Corso continued its steady climb, nearly breaking into the top 10, while the Pomeranian and Border Collie also saw modest gains.
Breeds That Slipped
On the flip side, some breeds dropped in the rankings—though this doesn’t necessarily mean they’re less loved.
The Greyhound experienced the largest decline, followed by the Briard and Black Russian Terrier. Other familiar breeds like the Siberian Husky and Miniature American Shepherd also slipped slightly.
Often, these shifts simply reflect other breeds rising faster rather than a true drop in popularity.
Holding Steady
Several breeds maintained their exact rankings year over year, including the Boston Terrier, Havanese, and Basset Hound. Others like the Pug and Collie also held firm, showing consistent demand among dog lovers.
New and Emerging Breeds
The Danish-Swedish Farmdog made its debut in the rankings at No. 170 after being officially recognized in 2025. Meanwhile, newer additions like the Lancashire Heeler continue to find their place among American households.
Looking ahead, three newly recognized breeds—the Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka, Teddy Roosevelt Terrier, and Basset Fauve de Bretagne—will appear in the 2026 rankings.
From longtime favorites to rising stars, the 2025 rankings highlight just how diverse—and passionate—the world of dog lovers continues to be.
Check out the Full List of AKC's Most Popular Dog Breeds of 2025 here.
