The 50 Most Popular Dog Breeds, Ranked
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If you’re thinking about getting a dog, there are a lot of factors and choices to consider. From rescues to purebreds and everything in between, there is a dog out there for everyone, and many need a loving home that they can call their own.
This list ranks the 50 most popular dog breeds in the United States, according to the American Kennel Club. You can find the perfect pet here, based on your amount of physical activity, your living space, the size of your family and, most importantly, your personality. Which popular breeds are your favorite?
50. Bloodhound
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Bloodhounds can follow scents over miles of terrain, which can make them difficult to walk, so you need to be as fit as your pup to keep up. This breed is otherwise easy-going, friendly and loyal.
They’re laid back and love kids and other animals. If you have a big family, this dog truly feels like it’s “the more the merrier.”
Bloodhound Summary
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Bloodhound Overview
Temperament: Friendly, Independent, Inquisitive
Height: 25-27 inches (male), 23-25 inches (female)
Weight: 90-110 pounds (male), 80-100 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
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49. Dalmatian
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Dalmatians are best known for their eye-catching spotted coats and their history of serving as fire dogs. They're natural born athletes, with a muscular build that was selectively bred for guarding horses and coaches.
Thanks to their past as working dogs, they remain loyal guard dogs even when kept as house pets. They're highly vigilant and dependable, and can be a great companion for hikers and runners alike.
Dalmatian Summary
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Dalmatian Overview
Temperament:
Height: 23-24 inches (male), 22-23 inches (female)
Weight: 45-71 pounds (male), 35-53 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 10-13 years
48. Australian Cattle Dog
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Take a step on the wild side with an Australian cattle dogs. They're distantly related to the Australian dingo, a quick-moving wild dog. Australian cattle dogs are strong, agile, and quick as a whip. They're known for outsmarting their owners, even those well-versed in dog training.
Because of their endless energy and drive to work, they're ill-suited to first time dog owners. Ideally, an Australian cattle dog will live with a family that can provide frequent, challenging activities, plenty of exercise and lots of wide open space to roam.
Australian Cattle Dog Summary
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Australian Cattle Dog Overview
Temperament: Loyal, smart, alert
Height: 18-20 inches (male), 17-19 inches (female)
Weight: 33-35 pounds (male), 31-35 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 12-16 years
47. Bichon Frise
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Bichons are wonderful companions for kids and other animals. Their small frame makes them perfect for small apartments and city dwelling, as they tend to roll through any situation and environment with an inherent confidence.
They don’t make the best watchdog, however, as they are overly friendly to everyone they meet.
Bichon Frise Summary
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Bichon Frise Overview
Temperament: Playful, Curious, Peppy
Height: 9.5-11.5 inches
Weight: 12-18 pounds
Life Expectancy: 14-15 years
46. Portuguese Water Dog
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For those who want an energetic, easy-to-train family dog, it's hard to go wrong with the Portuguese water dog. They're highly intelligent, and while they do have a stubborn, mischievous streak, they're eager to please their owners as well.
They learn quickly and respond well to obedience training. Their dense, curly coat doesn't shed much, and its water repellent nature makes the Portuguese water dog a great choice for outdoorsy dog owners. Even the Obamas picked one!
Portuguese Water Dog Summary
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Portuguese Water Dog Overview
Temperament: Intelligent, demanding, enthusiastic
Height: 20-22 inches (male), 17-20 inches (female)
Weight: 42-60 pounds (male), 35-50 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
45. West Highland White Terrier
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Small and cute, this former ratter still may look for small animals in your yard, so make sure to train them away from this trait. Despite their size, they are strong, fearless and don’t need much in the way of pampering.
Their independence can make them willful, but they are faithful, kind dogs that love to be part of a family.
West Highland White Terrier Summary
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West Highland White Terrier Overview
Temperament: Loyal, Happy, Entertaining
Height: 11 inches (male), 10 inches (female)
Weight: 15-20 pounds
Life Expectancy: 13-15 years
44. Weimaraner
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Surely you’ve seen photos of Weimaraners standing in some precarious positions — this is because they are known for their grace and balance. However, in families, they are always on solid ground as loving companions who are great with kids.
They are intelligent, easily trainable and fun, but need to be physically and mentally challenged to stay happy.
Weimaraner Summary
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Weimaraner Overview
Temperament: Friendly, Fearless, Obedient
Height: 25-27 inches (male), 23-25 inches (female)
Weight: 70-90 pounds (male), 55-75 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 10-13 years
43. Shiba Inu
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This Japanese breed has been featured in many memes and continues to grow in popularity. Alert, expressive and highly intelligent, these sturdy pups are bold, confident and friendly and a great addition to any family.
Shibas are built for an active lifestyle, so make sure yours gets plenty of exercise.
Shiba Inu Summary
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Shiba Inu Overview
Temperament: Alert, Active, Attentive
Height: 14.5-16.5 inches (male), 13.5-15.5 inches (female)
Weight: 23 pounds (male), 17 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 13-16 years
42. Newfoundland
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One of the largest dog breeds, Newfies can weigh up to 150 pounds and stand about 28-inches tall. That makes for a whole lot of dog, so it can be surprising when you meet one and discover their sweet temperament.
They do particularly well with kids, but make sure you’re ready for the physical challenges of owning one.
Newfoundland Summary
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Newfoundland Overview
Temperament: Sweet, Patient, Devoted
Height: 28 inches (male), 26 inches (female)
Weight: 130-150 pounds (male), 100-120 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 9-10 years
41. Rhodesian Ridgeback
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If you want to own a ridgeback, you’d best be active — they are fast and powerful athletes that can tip the scales at about 90 pounds. Training is essential for the breed that is fiercely independent and may run your household if left unchecked.
Nonetheless, ridgebacks are faithful and overly affectionate with their chosen family.
Rhodesian Ridgeback Summary
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Rhodesian Ridgeback Overview
Temperament: Affectionate, Dignified, Even-Tempered
Height: 25-27 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female)
Weight: 85 pounds (male), 70 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 10 years
40. English Cocker Spaniel
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The English cocker spaniel is similar to the American cocker spaniel, only slightly larger, and more adept at hunting. Both make wonderful companion animals, but the English cocker spaniel is a better choice for activities like hunting and other sports.
They have a warm, cheery personalities that melt hearts all around, plus a silky coat and a winning attitude. They'll gladly help out around farms or on the hunt all day long. As per Dog Academy's calm dog breed guide, English cocker spaniels are also one of the most active calm medium dogs you can adopt for your family.
English Cocker Spaniel Summary
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English Cocker Spaniel Overview
Temperament: Playful, loyal, sensitive
Height: 14-17 inches
Weight: 28-34 pounds (male), 26-32 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
39. Collie
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With an impressive coat, the collie gives off a regal air, but they’re working dogs through and through. The breed is especially fond of children, so much so that it has been characterized as such in TV and movies — remember “Lassie”?
These smart, athletic dogs love constant companionship and exercise. Make sure to groom them frequently, too.
Collie Summary
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Collie Overview
Temperament: Devoted, Graceful, Proud
Height: 24-26 inches (male), 21-24 inches (female)
Weight: 60-75 pounds (male), 50-65 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
38. Maltese
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The Maltese is small and guaranteed to win hearts with their big, black eyes and cute button noses. That said, they’re hardy dogs that are much tougher than they appear.
They’re adaptable, alert and fearless (all of which makes them great watchdogs), and are up for any activity. They barely shed, live a long time and do well with human and canine companions alike.
Maltese Summary
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Maltese Overview
Temperament: Gentle, Playful, Charming
Height: 7-9 inches
Weight: Under 7 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
37. Mastiff
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These giant dogs cast an imposing shadow when first meeting strangers, but are surprisingly gentle and friendly when they get to know people.
When it comes to their families, they are patient, lovable companions that do well with gentle training. Their loyalty makes them extremely protective, and early socialization is essential.
Mastiff Summary
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Mastiff Overview
Temperament: Courageous, Dignified, Good-Natured
Height: 30 inches and up (male), 27.5 inches and up (female)
Weight: 160-230 pounds (male), 120-170 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 6-10 years
36. Basset Hound
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The basset stands low and long, and they may be slow, but that doesn’t mean they’re not powerful — their strength and stamina are evident once they become part of the family.
Steadfastly loyal, the basset will charm any owner with their big puppy dog eyes, floppy ears and clownish expressions. While they may not be overly affectionate, they’re extremely loyal to their chosen family.
Basset Hound Summary
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Basset Hound Overview
Temperament: Charming, Patient, Low-Key
Height: Up to 15 inches
Weight: 40-65 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-13 years
35. Pug
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The pug is the clown of the dog world and is described by the phrase “multum in parvo” (“a lot in a little”) — an apt description of this small but muscular breed. This pup has a royal Chinese lineage and has delighted owners for centuries with comic expressions.
Make sure to watch your pug’s weight — they really love to eat — and make sure to keep them in a temperature-controlled climate when weather extremes occur.
Pug Summary
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Pug Overview
Temperament: Charming, Mischievous, Loving
Height: 10-13 inches
Weight: 14-18 pounds
Life Expectancy: 13-15 years
34. Chihuahua
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This tiny breed possesses all the charm and loyalty you could want in any canine companion, but their big-dog attitude will have them running your house sooner than you think. So, some training is essential.
Chihuahuas are perfect for city living, but are too small for roughhousing with kids, as they can get injured easily.
Chihuahua Summary
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Chihuahua Overview
Temperament: Charming, Graceful, Sassy
Height: 5-8 inches
Weight: Not exceeding 6 pounds
Life Expectancy: 14-16 years
33. Vizsla
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As alert hunting companions, vizslas are used to working side by side with humans. A result of hundreds of years of this relationship, they’ve formed tight bonds with their owners and hate being left alone.
Vizslas excel in any activity, from sports to obedience training — and their stamina and gait also make them great running companions.
Vizsla Summary
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Vizsla Overview
Temperament: Affectionate, Gentle, Energetic
Height: 22-24 inches (male), 21-23 inches (female)
Weight: 55-60 pounds (male), 44-55 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
32. Belgian Malinois
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Owning a malinois requires you to be active. Because the breed needs mental stimulation, physical activity and socialization, it may not work well for a small apartment or a person who’s more introverted.
However, if you have plenty of room to roam and love to exercise, do consider this dog who will happily stay by your side as you embark on any adventure.
Belgian Malinois Summary
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Belgian Malinois Overview
Temperament: Confident, Smart, Hardworking
Height: 24-26 inches (male), 22-24 inches (female)
Weight: 60-80 pounds (male), 40-60 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 14-16 years
31. Miniature American Shepherd
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They look like Australian shepherds but are California born and bred. Miniature American shepherds are true herding dogs that will tend to corral small animals and kids, so training is essential.
They are energetic, extremely bright, loyal to their owners, but wary of strangers, especially on their territory.
Miniature American Shepherd Summary
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Miniature American Shepherd Overview
Temperament: Good-Natured, Intelligent, Devoted
Height: 14-18 inches (male), 13-17 inches (female)
Weight: 20-40 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-13 years
30. Border Collie
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These athletic herders are top dogs when it comes to intelligence, and their agility and gait makes them shoo-ins to win many a competition.
To keep your collie happy, make sure to keep them occupied. Having a “job” is key to their contentment.
Border Collie Summary
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Border Collie Overview
Temperament: Affectionate, Smart, Energetic
Height: 19-22 inches (male), 18-21 inches (female)
Weight: 30-55 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
29. Cocker Spaniel
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A capable bird dog, the cocker spaniel is a beloved companion to adults and kids alike. They live to please their owners and will join in any activity or a simple snuggle on the couch.
Regular grooming is imperative to their health and happiness.
Cocker Spaniel Summary
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Cocker Spaniel Overview
Temperament: Gentle, Smart, Happy
Height: 14.5-15.5 inches (male), 13.5-14.5 inches (female)
Weight: 25-30 pounds (male), 20-25 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 10-14 years
28. Brittany
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Brittanys look like spaniels, but are smaller and have plenty of zeal, which was bred into them from their ability to hunt.
Today, that get-up-and-go can be easily channeled into sports, competition or obedience training. The Brittany is an all-purpose partner for outdoorsy, active owners.
Brittany Summary
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Brittany Overview
Temperament: Bright, Fun-Loving, Upbeat
Height: 17.5-20.5 inches
Weight: 30-40 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
27. Shetland Sheepdog
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Shetlands are small but agile and incredibly smart. They do well in competition when it comes to obedience, agility and herding.
At home, they are sensitive, affectionate and loyal to family members, but keep a protective stance with strangers.
Shetland Sheepdog Summary
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Shetland Sheepdog Overview
Temperament: Playful, Energetic, Bright
Height: 13-16 inches
Weight: 15-25 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
26. English Springer Spaniel
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Springers are affable dogs who love kids and other animals. They are happy to be part of the family and will eagerly join in any of its activities.
This tough and muscular hunter is highly trainable and loves to people please, but don’t leave them alone for too long — as this is quite a social breed.
English Springer Spaniel Summary
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English Springer Spaniel Overview
Temperament: Friendly Playful, Obedient
Height: 20 inches (male), 19 inches (female)
Weight: 50 pounds (male), 40 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
25. Havanese
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Havenese are sturdy, adaptable tricksters — games come easily to them, and they love keeping the attention of humans and animals alike. Small but sturdy, Havs make excellent watch dogs, despite their small stature.
To keep yours from getting matted, regular grooming of their long, coarse coat is essential.
Havanese Summary
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Havanese Overview
Temperament: Intelligent, Outgoing, Funny
Height: 8.5-11.5 inches
Weight: 7-13 pounds
Life Expectancy: 14-16 years
24. Boston Terrier
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Compact and well-balanced, the Boston makes an excellent city pet. They’re always up for a quick walk or sitting at your feet at a busy cafe.
Mostly, however, this sturdy, friendly dog is content to lap up the attention they will undoubtedly receive from passersby, who fall in love with their big round eyes and comical face.
Boston Terrier Summary
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Boston Terrier Overview
Temperament: Friendly, Bright, Amusing
Height: 15-17 inches
Weight: 12-25 pounds
Life Expectancy: 11-13 years
23. Pomeranian
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Poms are easily trainable, smart and make excellent watchdogs, despite their small frame. They love kids and can live in any environment, from a big house to a small apartment.
Poms enjoy plenty of indoor play and short walks. They are most content, however, to provide plenty of laughs for their chosen family.
Pomeranian Summary
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Pomeranian Overview
Temperament: Inquisitive, Bold, Lively
Height: 6-7 inches
Weight: 3-7 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-16 years
22. Bernese Mountain Dog
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These large, sturdy working dogs thrive in cold weather — after all, they once worked on farms in Switzerland.
Today, they make content, playful friends of the entire family, but more often than not, they'll get attached to just one person who will be lucky to have this protective best friend for life.
Bernese Mountain Dog Summary
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Bernese Mountain Dog Overview
Temperament: Good-Natured, Calm, Strong
Height: 25-27.5 inches (male), 23-26 inches (female)
Weight: 80-115 pounds (male), 70-95 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 7-10 years
21. Siberian Husky
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You know them as snow dogs leading teams sledding through the Alaskan wilderness, but Huskies make great family pets just the same. This powerful, friendly, agile breed is a natural pack dog and gets along with every human and animal alike.
For this reason, they don’t make particularly great guard dogs, as they may lick an intruder into submission.
Siberian Husky Summary
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Siberian Husky Overview
Temperament: Loyal, Outgoing, Mischievous
Height: 21-23.5 inches (male), 20-22 inches (female)
Weight: 45-60 pounds (male), 35-50 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
20. Shih Tzu
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Shih Tzus capture the heart of everyone they come across. Especially affectionate with children, they hail from the ancient royal palaces of China but will feel equally at home in a small urban apartment.
Perhaps best of all, they are content to warm your lap as you watch TV.
Shih Tzu Summary
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Shih Tzu Overview
Temperament: Affectionate, Playful, Outgoing
Height: 9-10.5 inches
Weight: 9-16 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10-18 years
19. Great Dane
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When standing on their hind legs, this gentle giant is taller than most people, casting an imposing figure.
But while you wouldn’t want to tangle with a Great Dane when they’re in the role of guard dog, they have a sweet nature when it comes to those they trust and love.
Great Dane Summary
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Great Dane Overview
Temperament: Friendly, Patient, Dependable
Height: 30-32 inches (male), 28-30 inches (female)
Weight: 140-175 pounds (male), 110-140 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 7-10 years
18. Cane Corso
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The Cane Corso hails from Italy and is a natural-born guard dog. They are loyal to a fault, and as a result, are highly protective of their loved ones.
These highly intelligent, massive dogs can end up owning you if you’re not prepared for the challenges they bring, so make sure you socialize them early and give them the proper training.
Cane Corso Summary
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Cane Corso Overview
Temperament: Affectionate, Intelligent, Majestic
Height: 25-27.5 inches (male), 23.5-26 inches (female)
Weight: Proportionate to height
Life Expectancy: 9-12 years
17. Miniature Schnauzer
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Cute but sometimes aloof, minis have long beards and brows that give them the appearance of a human looking at you in judgment. But looks can deceive, as they are some of the most loving breeds around.
They’re tough, too — they were bred to be ratters and remain fearless, but they are friendly, trainable and get along with animals and kids.
Miniature Schnauzer Summary
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Miniature Schnauzer Overview
Temperament: Friendly, Smart, Obedient
Height: 12-14 inches
Weight: 11-20 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
16. Boxer
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The ever-alert boxer is a curious powerhouse with a smooth, assured gait. This upbeat and playful pup is great with kids due to their patience and gentleness, but they’re also a protective watchdog with no fear.
Just note that they should be socialized from an early age.
Boxer Summary
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Boxer Overview
Temperament: Bright, Fun-Loving, Active
Height: 23-25 inches (male), 21.5-23.5 inches (female)
Weight: 65-80 pounds (male), 50-65 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
15. Doberman Pinscher
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When you think of Dobies, you probably think of a muscular, lean dog ready to protect their owners at all cost. While they do make great guard dogs, they’re also loving companions but need to be socialized from an early age.
Exercise is also important for Dobies — without it, they can become bored or agitated, which can lead to aggression.
Doberman Pinscher Summary
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Doberman Pinscher Overview
Temperament: Loyal, Fearless, Alert
Height: 26-28 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female)
Weight: 75-100 pounds (male), 60-90 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
14. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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Noble. That’s the word usually used to describe this graceful, small dog with big round eyes that can easily charm their owner into a treat or playtime. While Cavs have a royal lineage, they are easy-going and quite friendly to everyone.
If you’re active, they’re happy to join in on your activities. And if not, they’re content to sleep next to you on the couch.
13. Yorkshire Terrier
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Yorkies are more than toys — they were bred as ratters and are surprisingly tough for being such little dogs. They pack a big attitude in a tiny frame and can be feisty or even bossy without the proper training. At the same time, these traits make them great guard dogs.
Yorkies make popular city dogs and are hypoallergenic, both of which are reasons for their popularity, but more than anything else, they are loving, loyal companions to their chosen humans.
Yorkshire Terrier Summary
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Yorkshire Terrier Overview
Temperament: Affectionate, Sprightly, Tomboyish
Height: 7-8 inches
Weight: 7 pounds
Life Expectancy: 11-15 years
12. Australian Shepherd
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These medium-sized herding dogs are known for their intellect, and they make great family pets. But they still have deep instincts to herd and will do so with everything from animals to kids.
If you’re sedentary, this may not be the pet for you, as the shepherd longs to be active. However, if you love an intellectual and tireless sparring partner, you may have found your new best friend.
Australian Shepherd Summary
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Australian Shepherd Overview
Temperament: Smart, Work-Oriented, Exuberant
Height: 20-23 inches (male), 18-21 inches (female)
Weight: 50-65 pounds (male), 40-55 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
11. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
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If they’re good enough for Queen Elizabeth, they’re good enough for your family! Despite their royal lineage, Pembrokes are not lap dogs. They were bred to be herding dogs, and fearlessness and independence are still inherent in the breed.
This bold but friendly dog thrives with plenty of activity and family time.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi Summary
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Pembroke Welsh Corgi Overview
Temperament: Affectionate, Smart, Alert
Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: Up to 30 pounds (male), up to 28 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 12-13 years
10. German Shorthaired Pointer
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When you’re looking for a graceful, loving dog, look no further than the German shorthaired pointer. The pointer exudes elegance, but they’re also powerful with plenty of speed and agility.
While they make excellent hunters, they’re also wonderful family companions who love to play and need plenty of mental and physical challenges to stay motivated and happy.
German Shorthaired Pointer Summary
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German Shorthaired Pointer Overview
Temperament: Friendly, Smart, Willing to Please
Height: 23-25inches (male), 21-23 inches (female)
Weight: 55-70 pounds (male), 45-60 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
9. Dachshund
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With their stubbly legs and sausage-like bodies, doxies aren’t made for strenuous exercise, but that doesn’t mean they’re dainty either. They’re tough little dogs, with a keen protective streak.
Their big-dog bark makes them excellent watchdogs, and they’re extremely loyal to their owners.
Dachshund Summary
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Dachshund Overview
Temperament: Friendly, Curious, Spunky
Height: 8-9 inches
Weight: 16-32 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-16 years
8. Beagle
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Beagles are active family dogs that bring big personality in a small body. Hardy, friendly and sometimes stubborn, the beagle is known for having a big voice and is a friend to kids and adults alike.
Keep an eye on them in your yard, however — they were originally bred to track small game and still have that instinct.
Beagle Summary
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Beagle Overview
Temperament: Friendly, Curious, Merry
Height: 13 inches and under, 13-15 inches
Weight: Under 20 pounds (13 inches and under), 20-30 pounds (13-15 inches)
Life Expectancy: 10-15 years
7. Rottweiler
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We imagine that when you think of guard dogs, the Tottie is forefront in your mind. Well, at nearly 27-inches tall, they can be imposing, especially for strangers.
However, they make a calm, confident companion for any family. Make sure to train and socialize your pup early, as to not be overly territorial.
Rottweiler Summary
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Rottweiler Overview
Temperament: Loyal, Loving, Confident Guardian
Height: 24-27 inches (male), 22-25 inches (female)
Weight: 95-135 pounds (male), 80-100 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 9-10 years
6. Bulldog
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The rough and rugged bulldog was originally a cattle driver, but today, they make wonderful playmates for kids. They are gentle, loving and eager to please, and don’t need much exercise.
As a matter of fact, they are very content to nap — a lot — but do watch their weight and keep them out of extreme temperatures.
Bulldog Summary
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Bulldog Overview
Temperament: Friendly, Courageous, Calm
Height: 14-15 inches
Weight: 50 pounds (male), 40 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
5. Poodle
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When it comes to poodles you have three sizes to choose from — standard, miniature and toy. Whichever you choose, don’t mistake the poodle for a simple lap dog. They are athletic, smart and fun for the whole family.
Poodles are still very much working dogs at heart — they were once great hunters of waterfowl, and their ornate grooming reflects that history.
Poodle Summary
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Poodle Overview
Temperament: Active, Proud, Very Smart
Height: Under 10 inches (toy), 10-15 inches (miniature), over 15 inches (standard)
Weight: 10-15 pounds (miniature), 60-70 pounds (male standard), 40-50 pounds (female standard)
Life Expectancy: 10-18 years
4. German Shepherd
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When it comes to devotion, loyalty and protection, you can’t do better than the German shepherd. They are intelligent, capable and extremely fearless, which is why they’re usually working with law enforcement.
Shepherds also make great service, search and rescue, and herding dogs, but mostly, they excel as faithful companions to every member of the family.
German Shepherd Summary
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German Shepherd Overview
Temperament: Confident, Courageous, Smart
Height: 24-26 inches (male), 22-24 inches (female)
Weight: 65-90 pounds (male), 50-70 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 7-10 years
3. Golden Retriever
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When you think of a dog that is the picture-perfect family companion, it’s likely that the golden is high on your list. These fun pups are a big favorite among kids of all ages who love their silliness and loyalty.
Whether you need a best friend to comfort you in your time of need or a playmate to frolic with, the golden is happy to serve you in any role you require.
Golden Retriever Summary
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Golden Retriever Overview
Temperament: Friendly, Intelligent, Devoted
Height: 23-24 inches (male), 21.5-22.5 inches (male)
Weight: 65-75 pounds (male), 55-65 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
2. Labrador Retriever
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Labs are currently the most popular dog in the U.S., and with good reason — this family-friendly companion is good-natured, hard-working and covers all the bases as man’s best friend.
Labs still work with hunters in retrieving game as they did centuries ago, but they also work as search and rescue, service and show dogs, and make a welcome addition to any home.
Labrador Retriever Summary
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Labrador Retriever Overview
Temperament: Friendly, Active, Outgoing
Height: 22.5-24.5 inches (male), 21.5-23.5 inches (female)
Weight: 65-80 pounds (male), 55-70 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
1. French Bulldog
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With their large bat ears, big eyes and short noses, Frenchies are extremely popular clowns, but they are also quite affectionate and protective.
They can live just about anywhere and do not require much exercise, which makes them perfect for apartment dwellers and seniors alike.
French Bulldog Summary
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French Bulldog Overview
Temperament: Adaptable, Playful, Smart
Height: 11-13 inches
Weight: Up to 28 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
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