On Wednesday, January 30, the American Kennel Club released the list of the top ten dog breeds for 2012. The German Shepherd Dog is near the top once again in the number two position, with the Labrador Retriever topping the list. All ten are the same breeds that made the cut in 2011, with only the Labrador Retriever, German Shepherd Dog, Boxer, and Poodle maintaining the same position on the list, with the remaining six moving up or down one position.
The 2012 ranking of most popular dogs in the United States, according to AKC registrations:
1 - Labrador Retriever
2 - German Shepherd Dog
3 - Golden Retriever
4 - Beagle
5 - Bulldog
6 - Yorkshire Terrier
7 - Boxer
8 - Poodle
9 - Rottweiller
10 – Dachshund
Those topping the list come as no surprise as the Labrador Retriever is a lovable family pet and both the Lab and the German Shepherd Dog are often used in law enforcement, search and rescue, and as guide or therapy dogs, among other duties. The striking appearance and unwavering loyalty of the German Shepherd Dog makes it a top choice for home protection, whereas the Lab is a favored companion of hunters.
The top ten list continues to be dominated by the larger breeds, with the Yorkie being the most diminutive of the lot (all sizes of Poodles make up that breed classification). While some still think it haute couture to sport a pooch that fits in their purse, apparently it’s just as classy to have the more commanding presence of a large dog at your side.
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