Every year, the American Kennel Club compiles a list of the most popular dog breeds in the country. While some species, like golden retrievers, are hardly surprising, other breeds have gained unexpected popularity.
Even though these canines are all very beloved, a few of them have specific health problems. The most crucial thing you can do for the health of your new dog is to purchase the finest pet insurance after choosing the ideal breed for you.
The Top 5 Dog Breeds in Popularit
1. Bulldog
Over the past few years, bulldog, or Frenchies as they are fondly known, have experienced a meteoric rise in popularity, topping the AKC’s list of the most popular dog breeds.
The Frenchie Club states that an hour of exercise is all that Frenchies require daily. Breathing can be a common issue for Frenchies due to their brachycephalic (flat face) breed. When exercising your Frenchie, you’ll need to take extra care to make sure they’re not overheated and to make sure you don’t overdo it in hot or muggy conditions.
Although they are generally thought to be low shedders, Frenchies do shed somewhat. They also don’t bark much and aren’t a very talkative breed.
2. Labrador Retriever
For a long time, the ideal family dog has been associated with the Labrador retriever. Their playfulness, energy, and loyalty make them perfect for practically any kind of living environment. Because they want to please their owners, they are also quite easy to teach.
The Labrador retriever is a bright canine with an endless supply of energy, so they’ll require plenty of room and time for exercise. The Kennel Club advises this breed to exercise for more than two hours every day. In addition, they require cerebral stimulation from sports, training, and puzzle feeders or toys.
Labs are prone to shedding because of their thick double coats, but you may lessen this by brushing them at least once a week. You might need to brush them every day in the spring and fall when they shed a lot.
There are specific health concerns related to labradors as well. “ACL rips are more common in larger breed dogs…knee injuries and hip dysplasia,” adds DeMarco.
3. Golden Retriever
Like their labrador brethren, golden retrievers make excellent family pets. These canines are renowned for their loving and caring nature, and they are gentle and amiable.
According to The Kennel Club, goldens require more than two hours of exercise each day. These intelligent, energetic canines enjoy swimming and fetch games. They respond well to training and need mental stimulation as well.
Compared to labradors, goldens have thicker, longer coats, which means they shed more frequently. Brushing them should be done every day or at least twice a week.
These dogs share many of the same health risks as labradors, including hip dysplasia, ACL injuries, and joint problems. Unfortunately, research indicates that goldens are more likely than other dog breeds to develop cancer.
4. German Shepherd
German shepherds are wonderful house pets in addition to being excellent law enforcement and search and rescue canines. DeMarco claims that German shepherds are “high-energy and have more of a protective side.” They need a lot of mental stimulation and are very brilliant, he continues.
According to DeMarco, “smart breed dogs tend to be more mischievous because they get bored easier.” You can engage your dog in sports, training, chew toys, or nose work games to keep this from happening.
German shepherds are eager to have different “jobs” and also respond well to directions. They are considered “dogkind’s finest all-purpose worker,” according to the American Kennel Club.
Hip and elbow dysplasia, a neurological condition called degenerative myelopathy, gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV), and other conditions are among the health problems associated with this breed.
5. Poodle
Poodle are renowned for their elegant, intricate coats as well as for being intelligent and gregarious animals. Poodle are among the smartest dog breeds available, but they also require a lot of mental activities and exercise to be happy.
There are three sizes of poodles: standard, miniature, and toy. Poodles are typically bold, gregarious, lively, and proud. They are highly adaptable because they get along well with kids, strangers, and other pets.
Poodles require a lot of attention for their coats. Poodles’ hair tends to get ma
