Each year, Rover, the world’s largest network of pet sitters and dog walkers, analyzes their database of over 1 million pet parents to figure out which dog breeds are most popular. America’s most popular dog breeds for 2020 were recently posted and some may surprise you.
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The silver lining of the current global pandemic is that more people are fostering and adopting dogs as they spend more time at home. Maybe that contributed to mutts becoming the most popular breed this year.
While Labradors are a known favorite and have been for the past decade, it was nice to see boxers make the top 10.
Below are America’s top ten most popular dog breeds for 2020:
10. BOXER
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Boxers are silly and playful dogs who get along well with children. They are quick learners who excel in obedience and make great family dogs for active families. Their popularity was increased over the years due to their sweet temperament and unwavering loyalty. Their typical life span in 10-12 years. If a boxer sounds like the perfect dog for you, consider adopting one through West Coast Boxer Rescue.
9. GOLDENDOODLE
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A goldendoodle is a cross between a golden retriever and a poodle, which creates a friendly and intelligent pup. People cannot resist these affectionate and gentle dogs that are great for families or as therapy dogs. Their life span is 10-15 years. Does this low-shedding hybrid sound like the perfect match for you? If so, please adopt. Check out some ready to find a forever home at IDOG Rescue.
8. DACHSHUND
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The short-legged, long-bodied dog is also known as a sausage or wiener dog. They were breed over 300 years ago in Germany to hunt badgers but are now loving companions to many. Don’t let their size fool you, these dogs are courageous and good watchdogs. Life expectancy for this breed is 12-16 years. Consider adopting one through Dachshund Rescue of North America.
7. SHIH-TZU
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While considered a toy dog breed, these dogs are lively and sturdy pups that love to follow their people around the house. Bred solely as a companion dog, they love to snuggle and are super affectionate. Their life expectancy is 10-16 years. If you are looking for the perfect lap dog, adopt one at Shih Tzu Rescue.
6. YORKSHIRE TERRIER
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Weighing a mere 7 pounds, Yorkshire terriers are tiny dogs, but have huge personalities. Although feisty at times, they make great apartment dogs and are loyal companions. Typical life expectancy for the breed is 13-16 years. Check out all the adorable yorkies available for adoption here.
5. GOLDEN RETRIEVER
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This breed’s golden coat and friendly demeanor has made it a family favorite for decades. Originally bred to be a bird dog, these dogs are now loving and devoted family members. Life expectancy is 10-12 years. If you are looking to add one to your family, please consider adopting one from As Good As Gold.
4. GERMAN SHEPHERD
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These velcro dogs are courageous and intelligent companions that excel in anything they are trained to do. They are not only amazing companions, but make great therapy, police, and military dogs. Life expectancy is 9-13 years. Active families or individuals are the best match for this breed. Check out some ready for adoption at Sedona Shepherd Sanctuary.
3. CHIHUAHUA
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The world’s smallest dog is also one of the most popular due to the breed’s irresistible personality. The lively dogs never leave their owners’ side and are renowned watchdogs. Their life expectancy is 12-20 years. They tend to bond closely with one person, so if you are looking for a lifelong friend, consider adopting a Chihuahua from Enchantment Chihuahua Rescue.
2. LABRADOR RETRIEVER
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Labs are a favorite breed around the world. Their easy-going personalities and friendly demeanors make them perfect companions and working dogs. They excel in search and rescue, therapy, and are extremely kid-friendly. Life expectancy is 10-12 years. Adopt one from Midwest Labrador Retriever Rescue.
1. MIXED BREED
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We can only hope this means more rescue dogs! Mixed breed dogs are also called mutts and are the result of unintentional breeding. They range in size, color, and personalities. Check out all the adoptable mutts at your local rescue or by searching the national database here.
Rover broke down the most popular dog breeds even further and allow people to search the most popular dog breeds by choosing one of 50 U.S. cities. Did your favorite make the top five in your city?
CHICAGO’S TOP FIVE MOST POPULAR DOG BREEDS:
1. Goldendoodle
2. Beagle
3. American Pit Bull Terrier
4. Golden Retriever
5. German Shepherd
AUSTIN’S TOP FIVE MOST POPULAR DOG BREEDS:
1. Miniature Schnauzer
2. Australian Cattle Dog
3. Australian Shepherd
4. Border Collie
5. Dachshund
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LONG BEACH’S TOP FIVE MOST POPULAR DOG BREEDS:
1. Maltese
2. Pomeranian
3. Poodle
4. Siberian Husky
5. French Bulldog
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COLORADO SPRINGS’ TOP FIVE MOST POPULAR DOG BREEDS:
1. Australian Cattle Dog
2. Great Dane
3. Australian Shepherd
4. Siberian Husky
5. Border Collie
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While there is no bad dog breed, each has its own interesting traits. Shelters try to match up dogs and adopters not based on breeds, but personalities and lifestyles. For example, people that proudly call themselves couch potatoes should look for the same quality in a dog.
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Rescue is and always will be our favorite breed. If you are looking to add a dog to the family, please head to your local shelter or animal rescue. There are countless purebred dogs and tons of mutts, which are the most popular breed this year.
