2020 has been a rough one. To avoid some of the doom and gloom, let’s look at cute photos and countdown the top 10 dog breeds of the year!
10. Yorkshire Terrier, A Top 10 Dog Breed
Yorkshire Terriers are the smallest breed on this list, weighing less than seven pounds, but what they lack in size they make up for in personality. These tiny terriers are bold and fearless, feisty and vocal. They think nothing of standing up to a dog twice their size. Known by many as “yorkies,” this breed is a big dog in a small body. In addition to their sass, Yorkies are affectionate and loving. Due to their small size, Yorkies fare better in households with older children who have been taught how to be gentle with an animal that size.
9. German Shorthaired Pointer
German Shorthaired Pointers come in at #9 of the top 10 dog breeds of 2020. This breed is quite the clown, entertaining their people with wild antics. They’re a versatile hunting dog, capable of hunting, pointing, and retrieving. They are affectionate, loving companions, and make great family pets. This breed is one of the sweetest on the planet, but they are also very high energy. As a result, German Shorthaired Pointers do best in families that can meet their exercise needs. They need two serious forms of exercise every day, whether that be playing in the yard, running next to a bicycle, swimming, etc.
8. Rottweiler
Despite Rottweilers having an intimidating presence, they’re a popular pet. Though you may imagine this breed as scary or mean, Rottweilers, or “Rotties,” are actually quite loyal and affectionate. They are intelligent and absolutely devoted to their owners, whom they will defend with their lives. Rotties love nothing more than pleasing their owners, which makes them trainable and obedient for the right person. This breed is incredibly strong, and they can knock down small children without meaning to. Rottweilers can do just fine with children if they are raised around them from puppyhood.
7. A Hypoallergenic Top 10 Dog Breed: Poodle
Regularly touted as the winner of top 10 dog breed for intelligence, it’s no wonder poodles make this list. Poodles vary in size from the teeny tiny teacup to the large standard, meaning there is a poodle for every family and situation. Poodles can come in a variety of coat colors, and their no-shed hypoallergenic hair is ideal for those who are allergic to pet hair. Read about other hypoallergenic breeds here. Poodles are not only smart, they’re incredibly trainable, patient, and playful. They are active but calm, able to romp through the woods then cuddle on the couch. This breed gets along great with children and makes a fantastic addition to any home.
6. Beagle
Beagles have been a beloved pet throughout history. There is evidence of beagles as far back as Ancient Greece and the Roman Empire, so it should come as no surprise that they make the list of top 10 dog breeds. Beagles are loving, loyal, and friendly canine companions, with plenty of energy to keep up with the whole family. This breed rarely, if ever, expresses aggression, and coupled with their patience, this makes them great pets for families with small children. Beagles love humans, so much so that they make terrible guard dogs. They will, however, perform watchdog duties, letting you know whenever someone arrives at your home. Beagles are also great with other animals, making them capable of fitting in to almost any family dynamic.
5. Bulldog
Besides being the beloved mascot of the University of Georgia, Bulldogs find renown in other places, too. There are two types of Bulldogs, English and American. The English Bulldog is arguably the more iconic of the two; this breed is short and wide, with a flat face, and is a breed recognized by the American Kennel Club. These dogs are some of the most easily-recognizable of any dog breed, and they’re just so cute! Bulldogs are one of the only dogs on this list that don’t require a ton of exercise. In fact, their short snout makes over-exertion a health issue. If you’re looking for a big, loyal, slow-paced breed, then the English Bulldog might be just right for you!
4. French Bulldog
Though alike in name and origin, English and French Bulldogs are very different breeds. French Bulldogs also hail from England, but they gained popularity in the French countryside, and eventually, Paris. French Bulldogs may only be a few inches shorter than their English counterparts, but they weigh less than half, somewhere between 25 and 30 pounds, fully grown. French Bulldogs lack hanging jowls but have large, erect ears. French Bulldogs are loyal, sweet, and cuddly. They want nothing more than to hangout in your lap and be close to you. Their short coat requires little grooming and their small size makes them convenient to travel around with.
3. Golden Retriever
It’s hard to picture a family without a Golden Retriever. Originally bred to retrieve waterfowl for hunters, their delicate nature with game has translated to family life. This breed is smart and aims to succeed, whether that be with competitions like agility, hunting, or performing tasks as a service dog. They’re eager to please, learn quickly, and have a calm, even disposition. They are docile, patient, and playful, making them one of the best family dogs you can find.
2. German Shepherd
German Shepherds always make the list of the top 10 dog breeds. They are loyal, courageous, confident, and smart. They love their people and are willing to protect them, no matter what. German Shepherds gained popularity after World War I, when soldiers from many different nations observed the intense work ethic of the military K-9s. After movies like Strongheart and Rin Tin Tin made their debut, the German Shepherd’s popularity skyrocketed. If you’re looking for an intelligent, quick learner who also has independence and drive, the German Shepherd might be right for you.
1. Winner of the Top 10 Dog Breeds: Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers have held the top spot of most popular dog breeds for almost 30 years. Why are they so popular? Labs are not only friendly, but they’re also intelligent and trainable. They are the ideal family dog, getting along well with all members of the family, from children to pets. Labs are low maintenance; they don’t require extensive grooming and they tend to live long, healthy lives for a breed their size.
Honorable Mention of the Top 10 Dog Breeds: Pembroke Welsh Corgis
Who hasn’t awwwww’ed at a picture of a corgi butt?
