Most Popular Breeds of Dogs

Each year, the American Kennel Club announces their "Most Popular Breeds" of dog. Some of these dog breeds return to the list year after year, while others are surprisingly new contenders.

1. Labrador Retrievers
Easily the most popular dog breed of them all, Labrador Retrievers are friendly, lovable, smart and great with kids. They have continually been labelled as the most popular family dog according to breeder surveys.

2. Golden Retrievers
Right next to the Labrador Retrievers you'll find the Golden Retrievers which are also true American family dogs. These large dogs are extremely kind and gentle by nature and love playing with people and their toys. Just make sure you have enough space in your home as they can grow up to 90 pounds.

3. Yorkshire Terriers
Yorkshire Terriers, also referred to as "Yorkies" for short, are the smallest and mightiest terriers of them all. These tiny pooches are highly energetic and very protective and loyal to their family. This means that they don't always get along well with strangers and they are not afraid to speak up and let you know this!

4. German Shepherds
Among the most intelligent and most loyal dog breeds in the world is the German Shepherd. Because of their extreme intelligence and strength it's no wonder they are the dog of choice among the police force. This doesn't mean they won't make a great pet at home. On the contrary - they make great pets as long as you have room in your home for a large, lovable dog.

5. Beagles
The Beagle has been poplar in American households ever since Snoopy hit the big screen. Once raised as hunting dogs, this medium sized pooch is strong for its size. Just don't expect it to have an aggressive hunter attitude as this dog is kind and gentle and loves families.

6. Dachshunds
Dachshunds, also known as "wiener dogs' have also been a favorite among adults and children alike because of their cute, unique body shape. With a long body and short legs it may look like they can't run fast but don't let their appearance fool you. They love to run and play and can keep up with the ball. However, Dachshunds can also be quite protective animals and have been known to nip at strangers and other dogs.

7. Boxers
The American Kennel Club says that the Boxers play well with children, are extremely loyal and are low maintenance dogs. While they may not be the most intelligent dog in the bunch, they make up for it by being very energetic and fun-loving. Being headstrong, boxers require obedience training while they are young.

8. Poodles
Both standard and miniature size Poodles have long been popular both with the rich and famous and the not so rich. They are beautiful, loyal and extremely intelligent dogs which makes them popular among every socio-economic group.

9. Shih Tzu
New to the American Kennel Club's list, the adorable dog with the funny name has been growing in popularity over the last few years. Cut and cuddly, it's no wonder that the Shih Tzu is also popular in Hollywood making it into the homes of many famous celebrities. You don't have to be rich to own a Shih Tzu as they make great companions to the young and old.

10. Miniature Schnauzers
This miniature dog breed just made it onto the list new for 2008 but it's likely that we'll see them on the list again in the future. Miniature Schnauzers are smart, obedient and love to engage in non-aggressive play. They'll play well with children and or chew toys. Originally raised as farm dogs, miniature Schnauzers are energetic dogs that love to be around people. Similar to the miniature Schnauzer is the Schnoodle. Part Schnauzer, part Poodle, the Schnoodle is becoming ever more popular and makes a great pet.

Quotes:
“A dog doesn't care if you're rich or poor, big or small, young or old. He doesn't care if you're not smart, not popular, not a good joke-teller, not the best athlete, nor the best-looking person. To your dog, you are the greatest, the smartest, the nicest human being who was ever born. You are his friend and protector.”  ~  Louis Sabin

"A dog can express more with his tail in minutes than his owner can express with his tongue in hours." ~ Anonymous

Things we can learn from a dog: 
     Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joy ride. When a loved one comes home, always run to greet them. Take naps, and stretch before rising. Be loyal. Never pretend you're something you're not. When somebody is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently. Avoid biting when a growl will do. When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body. Bond with your pack. Allow the experiences of fresh air and wind in your face to be pure ecstasy. Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

How True:
If you can start the day without caffeine,
If you can be cheerful, ignoring aches and pains,
If you can eat the same food everyday and be grateful for it,
If you can understand when loved ones are too busy to give you time,
If you can overlook when people take things out on you,
If you can take criticism and blame without resentment,
If you can face the world without lies and deceit,
If you can conquer tension without medical help,
If you can do all these things, ...............
Then you are probably the family dog!

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