Earlier this week, the American Kennel Club (AKC) announced its 2009 registration statistics. Among those numbers released was a report of the top dog breeds in the nation. This year, the Labrador Retriever took the top spot – making 2009 the 19th year in a row for a win – however, there was a change in the numbers for the second spot which could indicate a gravitation towards larger dogs.
According to AKC data released during the press conference at Grand Central Terminal in New York City, this past year, the German Shepherd overtook the Yorkshire Terrier for the number two spot. This marks a huge comeback for the breed as it hasn't been ranked this high in more than thirty years.
According to the release from the AKC, the German Shepherd has been an American favorite since the time of Rin Tin Tin, and even became the number one breed of the 1920s, but then slipped in popularity until after World War II.
"Labs have been America’s top dog for nearly two decades due to their loyal and gentle nature," said AKC Spokesperson Lisa Peterson. "But the German Shepherd Dog has gained ground recently, quite possibly due to the increased attention they receive for their security efforts at home and abroad. Hailed as the world’s leading police, guard and military dog, this energetic and fun-loving breed is a loyal family pet, ideal companion and dependable K-9 partner when duty calls."
Want to see the other breeds that took the top ten spots? Check out the list below:
2009 Most Popular Dogs in the U.S.
1. Labrador Retriever
2. German Shepherd Dog
3. Yorkshire Terrier
4. Golden Retriever
5. Beagle
6. Boxer
7. Bulldog
8. Dachshund
9. Poodle
10. Shih Tzu |
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