From the feisty Frenchie to the softy Spitz, dog lovers pick their pooch based on a myriad of factors. Which dog breeds and dog names get Americans’ tails wagging the most?
With this in mind, MarketWatch Guides analyzed over 35,000 marketplace records of dogs gathered from PetInsurer (no affiliation to K9 Magazine) to declare the most popular dog breeds and dog names by state, as well as what each breed will cost Americans.
The French Bulldog: America’s Best Friend
Who’s the best boy in the whole country? It’s you, Frenchies! The most popular dog breed in the U.S. is the French Bulldog, accounting for 7% of all dogs.
Frenchies are the #1 most popular dog in America and the top breed in 12 states. The next most popular breeds are Chihuahuas, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and German Shepherds.
Everydog’s a Bella… or a Luna… or a Max
1 in every 100 dogs in the United States is named Bella, the most popular dog name in the nation! Following closely are Luna, Max, Charlie, and Coco. Stereotypical names like Spot, Fido, or Rover are surprisingly uncommon.
So How Much are They Gonna Cost Me?
Caring for a Golden Retriever will run you the most. They cost $23,000 to care for over their lifetime. French Bulldogs are estimated to cost $16,295 over their lifespan.
Frenchies and some other breeds are known for breed-specific health issues, which can shorten their lifespans and cause health complications.
Here’s the full study: Most Popular Dog Breeds
Methodology
To rank the most and least popular dog breeds by state, the MarketWatch Guides research team analyzed 35,000 data points from 2023 collected using PetInsurer, a third-party pet insurance provider.
The data included breeds, names, and ZIP codes which were matched to the corresponding state or U.S. territory. Dogs reported as “Mixed,” “Designer” or “Other” were excluded from our breed popularity analysis but included in our name popularity analysis.
Yearly and lifetime cost data for the top breeds in each state were sourced from PetBudget.
How To Find a Breed that’s Right for You and Meet Its Needs
When choosing a dog breed, our team recommends tailoring your decision to fit your lifestyle, abilities, and needs. Consider your budget, as well as factors such as the size of your home, climate, local regulations, and whether you have access to a yard or dog park, as these can impact your dog’s comfort and well-being.
Research the exercise needs, dietary requirements, grooming demands, and potential health issues specific to your chosen breed. For instance, active breeds such as labradors require plenty of exercise, while certain breeds such as bulldogs may require special attention to respiratory health.
Our team also recommends you explore pet insurance options to prepare for unexpected veterinary expenses if your dog gets hurt or sick.
Additionally, consider adopting a rescue dog. Many shelters and rescue organizations offer loving and deserving dogs ready for forever homes.
Adoption not only provides a second chance to an animal in need but also often includes benefits such as spaying or neutering, vaccinations, and even basic obedience training.
