The American Kennel Club Releases Their 2010 Statistics: The Top AKC Dog Breeds for 2010

The statistics are out, and the American Kennel Club's number one registered dog, for the twentieth year in a row, is the Labrador Retriever. Lab lovers across the world will nod their heads in agreement; Labs, as a whole, are known for their friendly demeanor, adaptability within families, and companionship. They also come in multiple colors, with black, yellow, and chocolate being the recognized colors (though a silver Labrador Retriever does exist). Weighing in at 55-75 pounds, the Lab is on the large side but is usually a gentle larger dog.

At number two on the list, for another year in a row, is the German Shepherd Dog, which has previously been known as a guard, police and military dog, but can have as friendly a demeanor as a Labrador . German Shepherds are very loyal and can be excellent family dogs.

Again at number three is the cute and portable Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie), the most popular Toy breed on the list. Perfect for apartment or condo dwellers, or those with limited time for exercise, the Yorkie only requires brushing to maintain it's long, silky coat.

In fourth position this year is the Beagle, followed by the Golden Retriever in fifth place. The often misunderstood (and continually underrated) Bulldog sits at number six, followed by the Boxer. Rounding out the top ten are the Dachshund, Poodle, and Shih Tzu, which all maintain the same positions as 2009.

New additions to the American Kennel Club lineup include the large Leonberger, a German breed used for work on the farm and one that almost went extinct after World War I; the muscular Cane Corso, an Italian pseudo-Mastiff; and the Icelandic Sheepdog, a medium sized hearty dog used primarily for herding in cold climates.

Rounding out the bottom five, at positions 163, 164, 165, 166 and 167 are Canaan Dogs, Dandie Dinmont Terriers, Harriers, American Foxhounds, and English Foxhounds respectively.

If you are considering acquiring one of these dogs, either for work or play, consider a local shelter or rescue organization. Many breed-specific regional rescue groups exist and individuals or families oftentimes pay less for the dog itself, and will develop camaraderie among other rescued pet parents, and should feel a sense of pride that they have rescued a dog in need of a good home. In addition to breed-specific groups, many national animal welfare organizations like the ASPCA and Humane Society, as well as some city Animal Control/Services organizations will take requests for purebred animals and will alert potential adopters as soon as they receive a specific animal.

Resources:

http://www.akc.org/news/index.cfm?article_id=4293

http://www.akc.org/reg/dogreg_stats.cfm