Did You Know?

According to the American Kennel Club® (AKC), the most popular dog in the United States in 2007 was the Labrador Retriever, which has now been the most popular breed for 17 consecutive years. The list is based on AKC registration figures. Muscling its way into the top 10 for the first time since 1935 was the Bulldog, which jumped two spots, from 12th to 10th, since last year’s list. Much of that increase in popularity could possibly be traced to the city of Los Angeles, where the Bulldog is second only to the Labrador Retriever in terms of ownership. The Labrador Retriever seems to be universally popular, as it claims the top spot in all cities except Detroit, Honolulu, Knoxville, Miami, and Orlando. In making its way into the top 10, the Bulldog pushed the Miniature Schnauzer out of that distinction. Still, the Miniature Schnauzer remains popular in 11th place, thanks in large part to the residents of Oklahoma City, where it is the third most popular dog in town. Steadily rising in popularity is the Toy group, which made up just 12 percent of the total registry throughout the 1970s but now accounts for just under 25 percent.