Curious to know which dogs topped the charts this year? According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the rankings for 2025 continue a familiar trend; with the French Bulldog holding the #1 spot for the third year running. Right behind are longtime favourites like the Labrador Retriever and the Golden Retriever.
These shifts in popularity reflect more than just trends, they reflect changing lifestyles, urban living, and evolving preferences for dog personalities and sizes. Whether you’re thinking about a new canine companion or simply enjoy dog‑breed culture, this list offers insight into what’s capturing hearts (and homes) in 2025.
This article is for general knowledge only and is based on information from online sources, including breed registries and dog surveys. Dog popularity can fluctuate based on trends, location, and lifestyle preferences, and individual temperaments can vary within breeds.
1. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog holds onto the top spot for another year, thanks to its adaptability and low-maintenance lifestyle. Compact, quiet, and friendly, Frenchies fit easily into apartment living while still offering tons of personality and affection.
Their signature bat ears and snub noses give them an unmistakable look that turns heads everywhere. Though they don’t need hours of exercise, they love short walks and lots of cuddle time on the couch.
If you’re searching for a breed that balances independence with devotion, this one may be your match.
2. Labrador Retriever
After decades at number one, the Labrador Retriever remains a beloved classic among Canadian families. Labs are loyal, gentle, and always up for a game of fetch, rain or shine.
Their patience and friendly nature make them a favourite among families with kids, and they tend to get along well with other pets too. Whether you live in the countryside or the suburbs, Labs adapt beautifully to active households.
Their enthusiasm for life is contagious, and their easygoing temperament keeps them at the heart of family activities year-round.
3. Golden Retriever
With their big smiles and loving temperaments, Golden Retrievers continue to rank high on every breeder’s list. They thrive in active homes, enjoy learning tricks, and are often chosen as therapy or assistance dogs because of their intelligence and empathy.
Goldens form deep bonds with their humans and have a natural instinct to please. Their coats require regular grooming, but many owners find the effort worthwhile given their unwavering loyalty.
If companionship and warmth top your wishlist, this breed could be ideal.
4. German Shepherd
Known for their intelligence and protective instincts, German Shepherds stay firmly in the top five year after year. They’re loyal to their families and excel in everything from police work to obedience training, making them one of the most versatile breeds around.
Their courage and confidence mean they need consistent training and mental stimulation to stay happy. When properly socialized, they’re calm and affectionate at home yet ready to spring into action when needed.
Families who value both security and companionship often choose this remarkable breed.
5. Poodle
Poodles combine elegance with smarts, available in Standard, Miniature, and Toy sizes to suit nearly any living situation. Their hypoallergenic coats and eagerness to learn make them ideal for households looking for a clean, clever companion.
Despite their fancy appearance, Poodles are athletic and love activities like swimming and agility courses. They bond closely with their owners and thrive on mental challenges, so puzzle toys and training sessions keep them engaged.
For allergy sufferers seeking a bright, adaptable friend, Poodles are hard to beat.
6. Dachshund
The playful Dachshund, nicknamed the sausage dog, continues to charm owners everywhere with its bold personality packed into a small body. They’re fearless, loyal, and love to burrow into blankets after a long day of adventure.
Originally bred to hunt badgers, Dachshunds have a strong prey drive and surprising stamina for their size. Their long backs require careful handling to prevent injury, but their spirited nature makes up for any extra caution.
If you appreciate big character in a compact package, this breed delivers every time.
7. Bulldog
Bulldogs remain popular for their calm, easygoing temperament that suits laid-back households perfectly. Their wrinkled faces and gentle demeanour make them lovable couch companions who enjoy short walks and plenty of naps throughout the day.
Despite their tough appearance, Bulldogs are surprisingly affectionate and form strong attachments to their families. They do best in moderate climates since their flat faces can make breathing difficult in extreme heat.
For those who value a mellow, low-energy companion with heaps of charm, Bulldogs are a wonderful choice.
8. Beagle
Curious and full of energy, Beagles are adored for their friendly, social nature that makes them wonderful family pets. Originally bred as hunting dogs, they’re known for their strong sense of smell and love of exploration, especially when snacks are involved.
Beagles have a distinctive howl and aren’t shy about using it when excited or bored. They do well with consistent training and plenty of outdoor time to satisfy their natural instincts.
If you enjoy an active lifestyle and appreciate a dog with personality, Beagles are worth considering.
9. Rottweiler
Strong, confident, and loyal, Rottweilers are prized as both family protectors and affectionate companions who take their roles seriously. With proper training and socialization, they’re calm, devoted dogs who form deep bonds with their owners and are surprisingly gentle with children.
Rottweilers need firm, consistent guidance from an early age to channel their natural guarding instincts appropriately. They’re happiest when given a job to do, whether that’s learning commands or simply keeping watch over the household.
Families seeking a devoted guardian with a tender heart often find their match here.
10. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, affectionately called Yorkies, pack a ton of sass into a pocket-sized frame that rarely exceeds seven pounds. Despite their delicate appearance, they’re fearless and confident, often acting as if they’re much larger than reality suggests.
Their long, silky coats require regular grooming to prevent tangles, but many owners enjoy styling them in adorable cuts. Yorkies adapt well to apartment living and form tight bonds with their families, though they can be wary of strangers.
For city dwellers wanting a spirited companion, Yorkies offer both charm and spunk.
11. German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer is a high-energy athlete built for families who love the outdoors and need a tireless adventure buddy. These dogs excel at hunting, running, and swimming, and they’re happiest when given plenty of physical and mental challenges each day.
Their short coats are easy to maintain, and their friendly, eager-to-please personalities make training a joy. However, without enough exercise, they can become restless and develop unwanted behaviours.
Active households looking for a versatile sporting companion will find this breed a perfect fit.
12. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
With their short legs, perky ears, and fluffy bottoms, Pembroke Welsh Corgis have captured hearts around the world and continue climbing the popularity charts. Originally bred to herd cattle, they’re intelligent, alert, and surprisingly quick despite their low-to-the-ground stature.
Corgis are affectionate with their families and often form strong bonds with children, though their herding instincts may lead them to nip at heels during play. They thrive on mental stimulation and enjoy learning new tricks.
If you want a smart, spirited companion with royal charm, Corgis are a delightful option.
13. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are renowned for their striking looks and boundless energy, making them a favourite among active families and outdoor enthusiasts. Despite the name, they were actually developed in the United States to work on ranches herding livestock.
Aussies are incredibly intelligent and need regular mental and physical exercise to stay content. They excel in dog sports like agility and obedience and form deep, loyal bonds with their handlers.
Families who enjoy hiking, running, or training activities will find an enthusiastic partner in this remarkable breed.
14. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are the ultimate lap dogs, combining a sweet, affectionate nature with a regal appearance that makes them irresistible. They’re equally happy snuggling on the sofa or joining you for a leisurely walk around the neighbourhood.
Cavaliers are known for their gentle temperament and adapt well to various living situations, from apartments to larger homes. They get along beautifully with children, other dogs, and even cats, making them ideal for multi-pet households.
If you’re seeking a tender-hearted companion who thrives on closeness, this breed is a top contender.
15. Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinschers are sleek, powerful, and intensely loyal, earning a reputation as one of the finest guard dogs available today. Their intelligence and trainability make them excellent working dogs in police and military roles, yet they’re also loving family members when raised with care.
Dobermans need consistent training and socialization from puppyhood to ensure they develop into well-mannered adults. They thrive on having a purpose and enjoy activities that challenge both their minds and bodies.
Families seeking a protective yet affectionate companion will appreciate the Doberman’s unwavering devotion and noble spirit.
