By SOPHIA BENEVIDES
Staff writer
- Labrador Retriever.
It’s no surprise that the Labrador Retriever was America’s favorite dog in 2012: The loyal family favorite has topped the list for 22 years now. Their intelligence makes labradors great police and search-and-rescue dogs, but they’re best known as playful and trusted companions.
- German Shepherd.
The German Shepherd is the world’s leading police, guard, and military breed by occupation, but an approachable and loving family dog by nature. It is consistently one of the most popular breeds in the U.S., known for its dependable and fearless personality.
- Golden Retriever.
The eager-to-please Golden Retriever has continued to do so, remaining one of the most popular breeds in the U.S. and moving up a spot from last year’s rankings. The intelligent and hard-working breed makes as great a search-and-rescue, guide, or assistance dog as it does a hunting companion, though it may be best known for its hallmark golden coat.
- Beagle.
Though it didn’t quite make it to number one, AKC Spokesperson Lisa Peterson said that “this year clearly belongs to the Beagle.” The spunky Beagle, known for its cheerful personality and love of the outdoors, makes a wonderful family pet. After moving up a spot from last year’s rankings, it could be headed for the top of the list.
- Bulldog.
Based on the Bulldog’s sustained popularity, many find its “loose-jointed, shuffling gait and massive, short-faced head” completely endearing. The Bulldog is as well-known for its gentle disposition as its jowly appearance.
- Yorkshire Terrier.
The tiny Yorkshire Terrier, also known as a “Yorkie”, is a Toy Group dog in size but all terrier in personality. What makes it a consistent favorite in the U.S.? It could be anything from the Yorkie’s “long, luxurious” coat to its “brave, determined, investigative, and energetic” nature.
- Boxer.
Boxers are instinctively protective and love being with people. Those qualities, combined with its powerful build and acute intelligence, made Boxers excellent couriers in wartime and helpful seeing-eye dogs today.
- Poodle.
For the Poodle, looks may have a lot to do with its popularity: It comes in three size varieties and is known for a thick, curly coat that appears in a variety of solid colors. But it is just as exceptional in smarts, excelling in obedience training.
- Rottweiler.
The Rottweiler wasn’t a part of the most popular list until last year. But it’s not hard to see why it made the cut: Rottweilers are intelligent, self-confident, and hard-working dogs. Their endurance makes them great police dogs, herders, and service and therapy dogs. Their devotion makes them great companions.
- Dachshund.
The Dachshund’s name (German for “badger dog”) might come from its long and low body or its excellent sense of smell. But the breed’s popularity probably comes from its friendly and eager personality.