In the United States, the craze for French bulldogs remains strong, yet another breed is swiftly gaining popularity among canine enthusiasts, according to recent statistics from the American Kennel Club (AKC) released on Wednesday.
The French bulldog, for the third consecutive year, tops the AKC’s list of the most popular purebred dogs nationwide. Following closely are Labrador retrievers, golden retrievers, German shepherds, poodles, and other perennial favorites. The remaining top ten includes dachshunds, beagles, Rottweilers, bulldogs, and German shorthaired pointers.
However, the cane corso is quickly climbing the ranks. This breed, known for its strength and protective nature, has made a significant leap from near 50th position to 14th over the past ten years.
Dog breed popularity is a double-edged sword. While breeders may welcome the interest, critics argue that it drives trends that support puppy mills. The AKC, however, states its rankings merely document trends rather than promote them, underscoring its role in conducting numerous inspections of breeders and pet stores annually.
Amid these debates, it is universally acknowledged that many wonderful dogs are available for adoption in shelters across the country.
### The Enduring Allure of the French Bulldog
The AKC rankings account for purebred dogs, primarily puppies, registered last year. Nearly 74,500 of these were French bulldogs, a figure down from 98,500 in 2023 and 108,000 in 2022. Despite the numbers, the AKC doesn’t suggest the popularity wave has ebbed, as registration remains voluntary and figures can vary annually, according to spokesperson Brandi Hunter Munden.
The French bulldog, characterized by its small size, distinctive bat-like ears, and larger-than-life personality, continues to outpace the once-leading Labrador, which had 58,500 new registrations last year. French bulldogs have enjoyed a surge in fame in the 21st century, partly fueled by celebrity ownership and the social media spotlight.
“They are fabulous companions,” said Gina DiNardo of the AKC, highlighting their low grooming and exercise demands, generally amiable nature, and charmingly smushy faces—a trait beloved by fans but criticized by some for potential health issues.
### The Rise of the Cane Corso
While French bulldogs may captivate with their clownish charm, the cane corso represents robust protection. This breed, pronounced KAH’-neh KOHR’-so, has origins as a Roman war dog and has served as a farmer’s assistant, boar hunter, and guardian.
Today’s cane corsos are valued for their loyalty and competence in dog sports. However, breeders caution against misconceptions spread via social media, noting that this breed isn’t suitable for every home.
Vickie Venzen, a breeder, ensures prospective buyers visit her home in Maryland to meet different temperaments of corsos firsthand—from the sociable to the traditional guarded demeanor—to understand they are sensitive companions and not mere guard dogs.
“They’re very good dogs and very versatile,” Venzen said, recounting a corso she bred that adeptly learned paddleboarding. “But you can’t assume you can put them in any scenario and they’ll cope automatically.”
### New Entrants and Rare Breeds
The latest addition to the AKC’s list is the Lancashire heeler, ranked at 189th out of 201 recognized breeds. The closely followed bracco Italiano jumped from 152nd to 132nd, with enthusiasts stressing the breed requires significant physical and mental exercise. Deb Pereira, a bracco owner in Connecticut, emphasizes the need for plenty of activity, as these substantial and sociable hunting dogs can still fulfill their traditional roles and excel in agility sports.
At the bottom of AKC’s recognition are the sloughi, Norwegian lundehund, grand basset griffon Vendéen, Bergamasco sheepdog, and lastly, the English foxhound.
### The Designer Dog Debate
While there is yet to be recognition from the AKC for “designer” hybrids like sheepadoodles, Havapoos, or borgis, the club has received inquiries. However, no formal proceedings to seek recognition have commenced.
### Beyond Purebreds
The U.S. lacks an official census for mixed-breed dogs, but the American Veterinary Medical Association estimates about 90 million dogs of various lineages reside across the country.
Shelters, which experienced both clearing and overflowing during the COVID-19 pandemic, show varied data from Shelter Animals Count and Best Friends Animal Society regarding dog arrivals and adoptions. Despite differences, both organizations emphasize that both purebred and mixed-breed dogs are available for adoption.
“Adopting a pet is truly a wonderful choice,” advises Julie Castle, CEO of Best Friends Animal Society, highlighting the significance of rescue over purchasing.