The beloved Labrador Retriever has officially surrendered its title as America’s favorite dog breed after an impressive 31 years. In a surprising turn of events, the smaller, more urban-friendly French Bulldog has claimed the top spot as the nation’s preferred canine companion.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Labrador Retriever maintained its status as the favorite breed from 1991 until 2021. However, in 2022, French Bulldogs surged forward with around 108,000 registrations—surpassing Labs by over 21,000. These rankings were based on nearly 716,500 dogs registered that year, with approximately 1 in 7 being French Bulldogs.
The popularity of French Bulldogs has skyrocketed over the past decade. In 2012, they ranked as the 14th most favored breed, but their registrations have exploded by 1,000%, propelling them to the top of the rankings. Other breeds, such as the American Hairless Terrier, Gordon Setter, Italian Greyhound, and Anatolian Shepherd Dog, also saw an increase in registrations between 2021 and 2022.
Once a favorite among the upper class in the early 20th century, the French Bulldog experienced a decline in popularity. Their resurgence can be linked to several celebrities who have openly shown their affection for Frenchies. Notable figures such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Megan Thee Stallion, Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez, Reese Witherspoon, and Lady Gaga have all garnered attention for their French Bulldogs.
The breed gained considerable recognition during dog shows last year when a Frenchie named Winston secured second place at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show and first at the National Dog Show. The attention intensified in early 2021 when Lady Gaga’s dog walker was shot during a theft while walking two of her Frenchies, who were fortunately returned unharmed.
French Bulldogs are growing in popularity thanks to their distinctive look and delightful personalities. According to Patty Sosa, a spokesperson for the French Bulldog Club of America, “They’re comical, friendly, loving little dogs.” Their low grooming requirements and adaptability to city life make them appealing to many. French Bulldogs are especially suited for apartment living, as they typically bark less and don’t need extensive outdoor exercise.
Easily recognizable by their miniature bulldog features and large, bat-like ears, French Bulldogs have become a sought-after breed. However, their rise to fame does come with some controversy. Veterinarian Dr. Carrie Stefaniak points out that French Bulldogs can be a contentious topic. Their unique anatomy predisposes them to a variety of health issues, including the need for C-sections due to their large heads and potential complications arising from skin, ear, and eye infections. Their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure can lead to respiratory difficulties and heat sensitivity, and they may experience spinal problems and nerve pain as they age.
Here are the AKC’s top ten most popular dog breeds for 2022:
French Bulldogs
Labrador Retrievers
Golden Retrievers
German Shepherd Dogs
Poodles
Bulldogs
Rottweilers
Beagles
Dachshunds
German Shorthaired Pointers
As we celebrate the rise of the French Bulldog, it's important to stay informed about the breed's specific needs and challenges. With proper care and attention, these charming companions can bring immense joy to any home!
BlueCoat French Bulldogs
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