Stacker has highlighted the most popular dog breeds based on data from the American Kennel Club. Which of these most popular dog breeds is your favorite?
Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
Still Popular Dog Breeds
Updated
Which do you prefer, cats or dogs? If you picked dogs, you’re in the majority: 74% of adults say they like dogs a lot, while only 41% of adults say the same about cats, according to a survey by The Associated Press. That’s not to say that dogs are inherently better than their feline friends. Evolutionarily, cats have actually been more successful, with superior hunting skills to survive even when food is scarce. On the other hand, science suggests that dogs are smarter than cats because their cerebral cortex contains twice as many neurons.
There may never be a straight answer, but for the majority who prefer man’s best friend, Stacker has compiled a list of the top 35 dog breeds with the most timeless popularity. Using data from the American Kennel Club, we’ve averaged each breed’s popularity level in 1940 with its popularity in 2021. This analysis excludes any new breeds introduced since 1940 and is based on data released March 15 2022, the most recent data available. All ties were decided by the highest ranked breed in 2021.
Click to find out if your favorite dog was just as beloved 80 years ago.
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#33. Newfoundland
Updated
– Average rating: 44.5
– Ranking 1940: 44
– Ranking 2021: 45
Newfoundlands are known for their large size, enhanced by their thick double coat. They are also characterized by their sweet and gentle personality. Although they may seem like the perfect pet, one of the least desirable traits of Newfoundlands is their tendency to drool.
#32. West Highland White Terriers
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– Average rating: 44.5
– Ranking 1940: 43
– Ranking 2021: 46
Called Westie for short, the West Highland White Terrier descends from a group of terriers bred to hunt for vermin. As a result, they may share ancestry with Cairn Terriers and Scottish Terriers. Although they look like soft fluff, their outer coat is actually stiff and coarse.
#30. Siberian Huskies
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– Average ranking: 43
– Ranking 1940: 67
– Ranking 2021: 19
As their name suggests, Siberian Huskies originated in Siberia. They were bred to have serious stamina and thick coats to withstand harsh winters. These wolf-like dogs have captured the hearts of many pet owners with their high energy and very friendly personalities.
#29. Irish Setter
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– Average rating: 42.5
– Ranking 1940: 14
– Ranking 2021: 71
Characterized by their silky chestnut coat, Irish setters were originally bred to hunt birds. Although they love humans, their hunting instincts can make them a threat to small animals. They are active and energetic, so potential owners should be prepared to take them for long walks or runs.
#27. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers
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– Average ranking: 41
– Ranking 1940: 34
– Ranking 2021: 48
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever gets its name from the shallow estuary surrounded by Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. In the 19th century, Chessies were used to hunt ducks in the bay because their coat helps them repel water and stay warm.
#22. scottish terriers
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– Average ranking: 31
– Ranking 1940: 4
– Ranking 2021: 58
This breed was developed in the Scottish Highlands and introduced to the United States in 1883. Former President Franklin D. Roosevelt owned a Scottish terrier named Fala. She is said to have received her own fan mail and now has her own statue next to the Roosevelt Memorial in Washington DC
#20. Shetland Sheepdogs
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– Average rating: 30.5
– Ranking 1940: 33
– Ranking 2021: 28
Also known as Shelties, Shetland Sheepdogs were bred in the UK as herding dogs. These long-haired puppies resemble their collie parents but are much smaller, weighing only around 20 pounds.
#19. Chihuahuas
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– Average rating: 29.5
– Ranking 1940: 22
– Ranking 2021: 37
One of the smallest dog breeds, Chihuahuas typically weigh no more than 6 pounds. This breed has earned plenty of screen time, with roles in “Legally Blonde,” “Meet the Fockers,” “Beverly Hills Chihuahua,” and as former Taco Bell mascot Gidget.
#13. Pomeranians
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– Average ranking: 18
– Ranking 1940: 12
– Ranking 2021: 24
This breed combines a tiny build with a big personality. Although they weigh no more than 7 pounds, Pomeranians can be possessive and behave aggressively towards those who threaten their space. As a result, they may not be ideal for families with young children.
#12. English Springer Spaniel
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– Average ranking: 17
– Ranking 1940: 8
– Ranking 2021: 26
English Springer Spaniels were bred as hunting dogs and are active and obedient puppies. Springer Spaniels have won six Best in Show awards at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, the third most of any breed.
#seven. Labrador Retrievers
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– Average ranking: 15
– Ranking 1940: 29
– Ranking 2021: 1
Despite their name, Labrador Retrievers developed in Newfoundland, Canada as opposed to Labrador, Canada. With typically yellow, chocolate, or black coats, Labs are an active breed that loves people and other animals.
#5. boston terrier
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– Average ranking: 13
– Ranking 1940: 3
– Ranking 2021: 23
Even though terrier is in their name, Boston terriers are part of the non-sporting group. The other half of their name makes more sense: they were developed in Boston and became the official state dog of Massachusetts in 1979.
#2. Dachshunds
Updated
– Average ranking: 8
– Ranking 1940: 6
– Ranking 2021: 10
Known for having relatively short legs and a long body, the Dachshund’s shape allowed it to easily follow scents and fit into burrows. The first time the Olympics had a mascot was at the 1972 Summer Games in Munich; the chosen mascot was a dachshund named Waldi.
