The American Kennel Club (AKC) has released its annual list of the most popular dog breeds in America and the Labrador Retriever bested 196 other breeds to claim the top spot. For 31 straight years, no other breed has occupied pole position other than the Labrador Retriever. According to the AKC, the Labrador Retriever’s versatility and temperament make it a perennial fan favourite among dog owners.

Each year, the AKC uses its registration data to compile a list of the most popular breeds in the United States. The top 10 breeds in 2021 are the same as the ones in 2020 but with a slight change in the order. Poodles, a breed that was very popular in the 1960s and 1970s, rejoined the top five for the first time since 1997. Bulldogs dropped a spot slipping into sixth place. Meanwhile, Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds swapped spots with Golden Retrievers moving into third place and German Shepherds sliding into fourth.

2021 Most Popular Dog Breeds in the United States

See the AKC’s 2021 list of the most popular dog breeds here.

Why Are Labrador Retrievers So Popular?

There is clearly something special about the Labrador Retriever. But, what is it about them that makes them so beloved? Experts say Labrador Retrievers can be easily trained and are suitable for people of varying lifestyles. They are comfortable out hiking or just lounging around with their favourite people. This makes them the ideal companion for most people.

Labrador Retrievers are originally from the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador. The AKC officially accepted it as a breed in 1917. Labradors Retrievers first appeared in the AKC’s top 10 in the 1970s and has dominated the charts since 1991.

“The versatile, family-friendly Labrador Retriever has solidified itself as America’s dog,” said AKC Executive Secretary Gina DiNardo. “With their loving, outgoing personality and eager-to-please attitude, it’s no surprise that the Lab has been able to continue its record-breaking run as the most popular breed in the U.S. As always, we encourage people to do their research to make sure they are not just getting a purebred dog, but most importantly a well-bred dog from a responsible breeder.”