Top 10 AKC Dog Breeds: How Do They Stack Up?
Ranked #5,129 in Pets & Animals, #128,336 overall
The Top 10 AKC Dog Breeds of 2008
Here are the top ten dog breeds (by registration) for 2008:
- Labrador Retriever
- Yorkshire Terrier
- German Shepherd Dog
- Golden Retriever
- Beagle
- Boxer
- Dachshund
- Bulldog
- Poodle
- Shih Tzu
How do they compare? We'll take a look at each breed. What are their good and bad features?
What's your favorite breed, make sure you drop us a note in the guest book and let everyone know your favorite breed of dog. Even if they are not on AKC's top ten.
Check Out AKC Top 10 Articles For 2007 and 2008
- Bulldog Muscles Its Way Into AKC's List Of Top 10 Most Popular Dogs In America in 2007
- Check out AKC's article on the top 10 dog breeds from 2007 and 2008.
- The Bulldog Nudges It's Way Up The AKC Top Ten Dog Breeds List for 2008
- The 2008 top ten list, has the same dogs as 2007, but the bulldog is moving right up the list, over coming the Poodle, and the Shih Tzu to become number 8.
What Is Your Favorite Breed?
AKC's # 1 Breed for 2008:The Lovable Labrador Retriever
Topping the list of AKC's most popular dogs is the Labrador Retriever.
Who doesn't love the mellow Labrador Retriever? They make great family pets, and are generally great with children.
Labradors were originally bred as flushing and retrieving dogs for bird and waterfowl hunters. Most still retain those strong hunting traits today, and many are still used to hunt.
Labrador Retrievers have a strong retrieving instinct. They do require regular exercise, and love to play in the water. In fact one of their favorite things to do is retrieve objects from the water.
They are easy to exercise, just take them for a stroll around the neighborhood, or throw a few balls in the back yard.
Here are some great links for more information on Labrador Retrievers. If you have a favorite link, or lens about Labrador Retrievers, please add it to the list.
Are You Labrador Retriever Savvy ?
Labrador Retriever ownership made really simple...3 points
http://www.labrescue.com/
Labrador Retriever Rescue, Inc. (LRR) is a local a more...1 point
Labrador Retriever Information, Labs
Labrador Retriever information, Dog Breed Informat more...1 point
American Kennel Club - Labrador Retriever dog
The Labrador Retriever is a strongly built, medium more...1 point
Dog Owner's Guide Profile: The Labrador Retriever
America's top dog breed for the last 15 years.1 point
Just Labradors - Labrador Retriever Dog Photos, Forum, Chat, Articles
Labrador photos, links, breed info,sports, forum, more...0 points
Gifts for Labrador Retrievers Lovers
AKC's #2 Breed: Yorkshire Terriers
The tiny little Yorkshire Terrier edged out its larger competition this year and moved up to second place.
Yorkshire Terriers are great dogs for a small space. They are generally friendly, but a little nervous.
Yorkies do need to be on a regular grooming schedule to maintain their long coat. Even if you choose to crop their hair short, it will take routine trips to the groomer to keep them in shape.
Because of their small size you should be cautious of Yorkies around small children. Young children may treat them like toys, or handle the fragile Yorkie too roughly. Youngsters should always be supervised with this tiny breed.
Do you have a great resource for Yorkie information, please feel free to add it to the list.
Yorkshire Terrier National Rescue Inc. Information
Yorkie rescue and adoption0 points
Yorkshire Terrier Club of America Grooming
Grooming your Yorkie0 points
http://www.unitedyorkierescue.org/
Yorkshire Terrier rescue and adoption.0 points
Yorkshire Terrier club of America
Yorkshire Terrier club of America Home page0 points
American Kennel Club - Yorkshire Terrier dog
That of a long-haired toy terrier whose blue and tan more...0 points
Yorkshire Terrier Dog Breed Information Center
Yorkshire Terrier, Dog Breed Information Center®, more...0 points
Yorkshire Terrier Dog Squidoo Lens
Interesting Yorkshire terrier dog breed facts and more...0 points
Yorkie Stuff for Yorkie Lovers
AKC's #3 Breed: German Shepherd Dog
German Shepherd Dogs are extremely intelligent, and loyal. This breed was bred to work, and likes to keep busy.
They have a very strong protective instinct, and should be socialized and introduced to new situations at a young age.
One of the biggest health issues with German Shepherds is hip displasia. Only buy from a reputable breeder, if you are looking for a puppy.
If you are looking for an older dog consider rescuing one of these great dogs. He will be your loyal companion in return for your generosity.
If you have a lens or website with information on German Shepherds, feel free to add it to the list.
Home of the German Shepherd Dog
Welcome to the official home of the German Shepher more...1 point
German Shepherd Rescue, Inc. - Home Page
German Shepherd rescue and adoption0 points
German Shepherd Dog Care and Grooming
German Shepherd Rescue of Northern California - Ab more...0 points
American Kennel Club - German Shepherd Dog
The first impression of a good German Shepherd Dog more...0 points
German Shepherd Dog Information
German Shepherd Dog, Dog Breed Information Center.0 points
German Shepherd Adoption and Rescue
German Shepherd adoption and rescue in the Northea more...0 points
German Shepherds
Buttons, Hats, mugs, etc.0 points
German Shepherd Stuff
#4 on AKC's List of Most Popular Dogs: Golden Retriever
What's not to love about # 4 on the AKC top dog breeds list. Golden retrievers are loyal, loving companions. They are eager to please, very intelligent, and have a great personality.
This breed is not for everyone, they are typically a high energy dog. Requiring both physical and mental exercise on a regular basis. If they do not get enough exercise, or if they are not able to find a constructive use for their brain power they can become destructive. They can develop bad habits such as digging or chewing. Or compulsive habits, such as carrying rocks in their mouth.
Because of their intelligence Golden Retrievers often excel at obedience, and agility. They also make excellent helpers for people with hearing, or sight impairments.
Have a site you really like related to Golden Retrievers? Feel free to add it to the list, or vote for your favorite.
http://www.squidoo.com/goldens
Goldens!3 points
Golden Endings
Golden Retriever rescue and adoption1 point
Golden Retriever Grooming
Grooming tips for Golden Retreiver owners0 points
American Kennel Club - Golden Retriever dog dogs puppy puppies
A symmetrical, powerful, active dog, sound and well more...0 points
The Golden Retriever Club of America
Dedicated to the Golden Retriever0 points
http://www.topgoldenretrieversites.net/
Where do you look on the web to find the best info more...0 points
The Golden Retriever - Puppy, Rescue Dogs, Breeders, Labradors, Pictures & Photos, Training Plus All The Information You Need About The World`s Favourite Dog!
The Golden Retriever In a dog's world, Golden Retr more...0 points
Golden Retrievers on Amazon
AKC's # 5 Dog Breed: What's Cuter Than A Beagle?
The cute lovable beagle is next on the list of top dogs. Beagles are usually excellent dogs to have with children, or other dogs. They may not tolerate small pets, since their first instinct is to hunt.
Their only drawback is their one track mind. This breed definitely has a mind of it's own. Training requires persistence, and patience. They will reward you with love, and a positive happy attitude.
Beagles should be watched closely, or contained in a fenced area. If left alone they can have a tendency to wander off, following their nose into trouble.
Beagles on the Web: Beagle Rescue Resources
Information one Beagle rescue and adoption organiz more...0 points
BREW - Beagle Rescue, Education & Welfare of Northern Virginia
Beagle rescue and adoption0 points
Beagle Information, Beagles
Beagle, Dog Breed Information Center®, English Be more...0 points
American Kennel Club - Beagle dog dogs puppy puppies
Breed standards and information0 points
Beagles from Amazon
AKC's # 6 Breed Causes Boxer Mania
The fun loving Boxer is next on the list. Boxers are typically very intelligent, and do very well in obedience, or agility training.
Boxer's were originally bred over 100 years ago in Germany, to help hunt wild boars. They later were bred to do other work around the farm, leading to their working classification today.
It's believed their name "Boxer" originated from the fact that they like to raise up on their back legs, and box with their front legs.
Boxers do very well with children, and love to interact with people when they are properly socialized.
Boxers are a high energy dog, and require some type of exercise every day. If they do not have the opportunity to work their minds, and bodies they can become bored. A bored Boxer can become destructive. A happy well socialized Boxer can be a wonderful addition to the family.
Let the world know your favorite Boxer sites, or Boxer lens here at Squidoo.
Midwest Boxer Rescues.com! ~ Boxer Rescue
Boxer dog rescue and adoption2 points
Boxer-Dog.org - All About Boxers
Dedicated to the Boxer dog and their fun loving pe more...0 points
Boxer Dog Tips - Tips and Advice on Boxer Dogs - boxerdognow.com
Tips and advice on owning a Boxer Dog0 points
Dog Owner's Guide: The Boxer
Info on Boxers0 points
Boxer Dogs Information
Looking for information on boxer dogs, you can fin more...0 points
Great Boxer Stuff
What's # 7 on AKC's Top Dog List? Dats a Dachshund (of course)
The adorable, lovable Dachshund comes in three coat lengths, long, wire, and short. They also come in two sizes, regular and mini.
Dachshunds can be quick learners, but they do have a stubborn streak. They often like to do things their own way.
They make great family dogs, but like other breeds they need to be socialized from a young age. Since they are a small breed they should be supervised around young children (or should I say small children should be supervised around them).
Have a favorite Dachshund link? Or do you know of a great Dachshund lens here at Squidoo? Add it to the list.
http://www.dachshund-dca.org/
Dachshund DCA1 point
Dachshund Rescue of North America, Inc. - Adopt a dog in need
Dachshund Rescue of North America, Inc. is an orga more...0 points
Canine Care
A Dachshund, general canine and pet care site. Lea more...0 points
American Kennel Club - Dachshund dog dogs puppy puppies
Low to ground, long in body and short of leg with robust more...0 points
http://www.c2cdr.org/
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Cool Dachshund Stuff
AKC's #8 Breed: The Adorable Bulldog
Bulldogs inched their way onto the AKC top ten list this year with their lovable sad eyes, and droopy adorable faces. How can you not love a Bulldog?
The Bulldogs are a friendly, loyal breed and most have a great temperament. This makes it easy to see why they're moving up the AKC breed list.
American Kennel Club - Bulldog
The perfect Bulldog must be of medium size and smo more...0 points
Tyson the Skateboarding Bulldog
0 points
The Bulldog Club of America Rescue Network
Not-for-profit foundation dedicated to the rehabil more...0 points
The Bulldog Club of America
0 points
Fun Bulldog Stuff!
AKC's # 9 Top Dog? Poodles on Plexo
What is your favorite flavor, or size? Poodles come in Teacup, Miniature, and Standard size. Poodles also come in several colors, including black, white, chocolate, silver and red.
While Poodles don't shed, they do require routine grooming. Check out the poodle grooming sites below for additional information on Poodle grooming requirements.
Poodles are very intelligent, and generally do very well in obedience, or agility training.
You know the drill, do you love poodles? Add your fave site, or lens
Poodle Grooming
Poodle grooming tips1 point
Poodle Rescue
Poodle rescue and adoption0 points
Poodle Rescue and Adoption- Adopt a Poodle Near You
Local Poodle rescue and adoption to help you find more...0 points
American Kennel Club - Poodle dog dogs puppy puppies
The Standard for the Poodle<br /><br more...0 points
Standard Poodles USA
Standard Poodles - Grooming, Health, Nutrition, Ca more...0 points
Poodle Clips - Why are Poodles Clipped Like That?
Poodle clips explained0 points
Great Poodley Stuff from Amazon
#10 on AKC's Top 10 List: Shih Tzu
Cute cuddly and full of personality. What more can you want?
Shih Tzus are full of fun. They love life, and love to have a good time. They can be stubborn, and difficult to house train. They often have a mind of their own,and do their own thing, but they are cute while they are doing it.
They don't shed (much), but do require regular grooming to maintain their coat. Check out the grooming 101 link, or grooming book from Amazon below for some great info on grooming your Shih Tzu.
If you have, or know of, a great Shih Tzu website, or lens feel free to add it to the list.
Shih Tzu Rescue
Shih Tzu rescue and adoption0 points
SHIH TZU RESCUE Non Profit Animal Shelter and Sanctuary in South Florida
Shih Tzu rescue and adoption0 points
American Shih Tzu Club
The American Shih Tzu Club, Inc. (ASTC) was formed more...0 points
Grooming 101: Shih Tzu's
Grooming tips for Shih Tzu's0 points
American Kennel Club - Shih Tzu dog dogs puppy puppies
The Shih Tzu is a sturdy, lively, alert toy dog with more...0 points
Great Shih Tzu Stuff
General Dog Breed Reference Guides
Tell us about your canine companion.
Please share your opinion on what breed should be top dog.
If you have a breed link you think would be fit one of the breeds on this lens use the contact me button at the top of this list to e-mail it to me (a rescue organization, or breed information)
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Incognito
Oct 27, 2011 @ 5:47 am | delete
- Great lens. I love Beagles myself can't get enough of them. I own two at the moment and thinking of getting a third :)
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Archie_Right Sep 19, 2010 @ 1:42 pm | delete
- My favorite one is Golden Retriever. But I'm not upset about the 4th position since Goldens stay on top (either 3d or 4th) for over last 20 years while popularity of other breeds changes more dramatically.
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labradortrainer Aug 24, 2010 @ 11:12 am | delete
- Absolutely agree..the Labrador Retriever should be Number 1! I would rate the Golden Retriever at Number 2.
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Joseph Levesque
Jul 15, 2010 @ 10:39 am | delete
- Dachshunds is the best bread! Not to big and not to small. Just right!!!
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sisdude
May 22, 2010 @ 5:00 pm | delete
- Wow, you've done a great job on your lens. Highly informative and great pictures. Good work!
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velveteen
Dec 31, 2008 @ 12:39 am | delete
- Aw, this lens is so cute. I love dogs. I have a labrador and I definitely understand why they are ranked number one!
I was sad that chihuahua's didn't make the cut, though. I have two of them!
anyway, this was well organized, and the pictures were precious. (:
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foovay
Dec 13, 2008 @ 2:53 pm | delete
- I just clicked through from wjz.com - what a delightful surprise to find a Squidoo lens! I always try to have the most popular dog breeds up on coloring pages at http://color-your-own.com, so I wanted to see what the top ten were. I have all of them except for the bulldog and shih tzu. Guess I better get drawing! Thanks for a great lens!
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Maryanne
Nov 28, 2008 @ 3:47 pm | in reply to Marsha | delete
- I have 3 Shelties and think they are the grreatest!!! They are so smart and really great with children. I use mine as therphy dogs and take them to school for Character Counts. Don't know who has the most fun, my shelties or the students.
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Marsha
Sep 7, 2008 @ 8:16 pm | delete
- I'm partial to Shetland Sheepdogs. I'm on my third one and my favorite characteristic is the head cocking when I talk to them. Two of the three Shelties I had have been head cockers. I also get a kick out of how smart they are. They are sweet, playful, loving and loyal dogs. I hope to continue to have them for as long as I'm around.
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Tiddledeewinks
Aug 29, 2008 @ 1:23 am | delete
- I love a bouncing Old English Sheepdog like my Tobie (no longer with us on this tired ole earth), but of the top ten here, I pick the golden retriever. I just learned about the golden doodle (cross between golden retriever and a poodle) and I want one.
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youhavegottobekidding
Aug 12, 2008 @ 9:35 pm | delete
- How about Rotties??hehe people don't want to have rottweilers anymore coz of those brutal movies that they usually make Rotties act as if they were pets of the devil. but actually they don't and I breed rotties for over a year now and they are as soft hearted as marshmallows.
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Pamela2Heaven
Aug 8, 2008 @ 2:39 pm | delete
- Great job...I lensrolled you and star 5
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CHOPRN1127 Jun 21, 2008 @ 3:19 pm | delete
- Excellent Lens. Simply LOVE IT. We have 7 dogs (one is a foster) - none in the top 10, but we LOVE dogs. Den of the Dog
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WorldTravelers916
Jun 20, 2008 @ 1:18 pm | delete
- what about rotts?
internet marketing service
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May 18, 2008 @ 11:48 pm | delete
- I left my footprints here. Nice lens. 5 stars of course.
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poohssheepskin
May 6, 2008 @ 4:53 pm | delete
- Very nice site! Come on over and see my little guy...he's a Kyi-Leo named Frodo. http://www.squidoo.com/mykyileo
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gmarlett May 3, 2008 @ 12:53 pm | delete
- Hey Barkley, you rock!
Reuben gives it 4 paws.
Thanks
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beachbum_gabby
Apr 28, 2008 @ 11:04 pm | delete
- my most favorite breed is Golden Retriever.
cool lens, love it!
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Zoo
Apr 5, 2008 @ 2:51 pm | delete
- this is crazy, this is the first time i have ever seen your lens and i have one just like it!
i like yours though!
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YouCanCallMeDan Apr 2, 2008 @ 11:37 pm | delete
- Terrific lens!! We are huge dog lovers. 1 Boxer, 2 Boston Terriers and 1 Yorkshire Terrier... They make life complete.
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