After reigning as America’s favorite dog breed for over three decades, the Labrador retriever has been toppled from its throne, making way for what some are calling the “Frenchie Renaissance.”
In a surprising turn of events, the charming and compact French bulldog has claimed the title of the most popular dog in the United States, as announced by the American Kennel Club’s 2022 rankings released on Wednesday. This marks a significant shift, with the Lab relinquishing its long-held position to settle for second place.
The rise of the French bulldog to the top spot has been gradual but remarkable, with the breed steadily climbing the ranks in recent years, as indicated by the AKC’s registration statistics. In 2012, French bulldogs were ranked 14th in the nation, but since then, their registrations have soared by an astounding 1,000 percent, according to the AKC.
French bulldogs first secured the second position on the list in 2020 and maintained their standing in 2021. Their appeal is evident: their small size and lower exercise requirements make them well-suited for urban living, while they also adapt comfortably to suburban environments, provided they receive ample companionship.
Gina DiNardo, the AKC’s Executive Secretary, described Frenchies as playful, adaptable, loyal, and sociable companions, suitable for a diverse range of owners.
However, it’s crucial to note that French bulldogs belong to the brachycephalic breed, characterized by their cute but flat faces. While this feature enhances their appearance, it also poses challenges to their breathing, especially in hot conditions or during physical activity. Additionally, Frenchies may be prone to skin allergies, heat-related issues, and eye problems.
To ensure the well-being of these beloved pets, prospective owners should prioritize obtaining French bulldogs from reputable breeders rather than supporting puppy mills.
The 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds in 2022
The 10 most popular breeds for 2022 are the same from 2021—just in a different order. Here’s the 2022 list with the number of positions gained or lost in parentheses:
French bulldog (+1)
Labrador retriever (-1)
Golden retriever (0)
German shepherd (0)
Poodle (0)
Bulldog (0)
Rottweiler (+1)
Beagle (-1)
Dachshund (+1)
German shorthaired pointer (-1)
Further down the list, some lesser-known breeds have made some big strides in popularity, including:
American hairless terrier (No. 135 in 2021; No. 120 in 2022)
Gordon setter (No. 113 in 2021; No. 99 in 2022)
Italian greyhound (No. 73 in 2021; No. 63 in 2022)
Anatolian shepherd (No. 88 in 2021; No. 79 in 2022)
The American Kennel Club currently recognizes 200 breeds, excluding hybrid breeds like the Labradoodle. It most recently recognized the Bracco Italiano.
