Every year the American Kennel Club publishes the registration of the most popular breeds for that year. This year one the most popular breeds is edged out of its spot by a pocket-sized favorite. The remaining seven are familiar with their "top ten" titles as well.
1. Labrador Retriever
A compact, medium-sized dog who stands approximately 21 to 24 inches tall, the Labrador Retriever is a powerful dog, built to retrieve game. The Labrador is one of a few breeds distinguished by webbed feet, to help it retrieve waterfowl more easily. An "otter" tail also facilitates this, acting much like an otter's tail in steering the dog in the water.Labrador Retriever Gallery
2. Yorkshire Terrier
A tiny dog whose personality outweighs him, the Yorkie is a delight to dog lovers everywhere. Happy and outgoing, Yorkies tend to easily get along with everybody, be the company adults, childen, or other dogs. Their playful personality sand small size enchant children, but these little dogs can be easily injured by larger playmates, so supervision is necessary. It's also important to remember that even though they only weigh six pounds, Yorkies are still true terriers and need the activity and interaction that that all terrier breeds require.Yorkshire Terrier Gallery
3. German Shepherd
One of the most versatile dog breeds today, the German Shepherd has a strong and devoted fanbase. A breed that oozes self-confidence and intelligence, the German Shepherd is sought after by law enforcement agencies, search and rescue workers, dog sport enthusiasts and especially families. Highly trainable and agile, this dog will fulfill nearly any role that a dog owner can think of.German Shepherd Gallery
4. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers have exploded in popularity due to their versatile nature and smooth personality. Their easy-going attitude and intelligence when responding to commands makes them a perfect gundog, and their loving and gentle nature towards others have escalated their standing as the ideal family pet as well. Hailed as one of the most popular breeds according to the registry at the American Kennel Club, the Golden Retriever will continue to climb in people's hearts.Golden Retriever Gallery
5. Beagle
Beagles are amiable hounds, with neither aggressiveness or timidity. They make excellent hunting hounds as the drive to track small game is very strong. Because of this alertness and drive, Beagles are very popular in field trials.These dogs do best in a working home, and can be extremely stubborn. Intelligent hounds, they can be somebody's ideal companion and hunting partner, or somebody else's housepet nightmare. Beagles have a tendency to gain weight, so exercise, and lots of it, is imperative, as well as proper feeding.
Beagle Gallery
6. Dachshund
The Dachshund has a very distinctive appearance. Long and very low-slung, with hound ears, and a long and pointed nose, the Dachshund presents a comical picture. Coming in many colors and coat varieties, there is literally a Dachshund for anyone who fancies the breed. Both Miniature and Standard sizes come in red, black, black and tan, dappled, grey, and chocolate. Coat varieties are smooth-haired, long-haired, and wire-haired, smooth being the most common.Dachshund Gallery
7. Boxer
Fun Loving, young at heart, playful and exuberant are the best words to describe the boxer. This is a breed who is a great companion to adults, children, as a running companion, or to cuddle with. They get along well with other pets, provided they are properly introduced, and they love children more than anything. Males and females in this breed are very similar in temperament.From Paula Collins of Cinema Boxers
Boxer Gallery
8. Poodle
Intelligent and dignified, and available in a variety of sizes, the Poodle appeals all types of dog people. Unparalleled as a hunting companion, and avidly sought after as a lap-sized companion, the Poodle has a vivid personality and is highly trainable. Although the required grooming of Poodles may be off-putting at first, new owners soon discover that the daily brushing becomes yet another bonding ritual, and that the time needed is not at all wasted.Poodle Gallery
9. Shih Tzu
A small, sturdy and compact dog with a long, flowing double coat, the Shih Tzu is the epitome of a lap dog. With a coat of any color, the Shih Tzu lacks the fragility of other toy breeds, making him the perfect companion for almost every household member. He is a tolerant, happy and affectionate little dog, and easily mixing with other animals in a home.Shih Tzu Gallery
10. Miniature Schnauzer
Alert and energetic, the Miniature Schnauzer is not a dog for the inactive household. He is intelligent and self-confident, and his small size hinders him not a whit when he puts his mind to something. He has a single coat of wiry fur, shedding very little hair and dander, making him a sought-after dog by allergy sufferers. He's compact and muscular, not spindly and fragile, and he makes a fabulous family pet for older children.Schnauzer Gallery
