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The American Kennel Club released its list of 2024's most popular dog breeds on Tuesday, Mar. 18. The French bulldog remained on top after ending the Labrador retriever's 31-year reign in 2022.
Frenchies have surged in popularity over the past decade, climbing from No. 14 in 2012 to No. 2 in 2021 before claiming the top spot. The smaller breed known for its "signature bat ears" has been recognized by the AKC since 1898.
While particularly common in cities, Frenchies' playful temperament and adaptable size make them a favorite in a variety of homes. Some critics have argued against French bulldog breeding because the dogs are prone to several health conditions – especially breathing difficulties due to their flat faces and narrow nasal passages.
Frenchies first emerged in popularity in the late 19th century, with even aristocrats and brothels gravitating toward the breed.
"Produced in England, popularized in France, and perfected in America, this adorable little bowling ball of a dog has charmed everyone from call girls to kings," the AKC wrote. "And its rags-to-riches story is an apt embodiment of the American dream, in which reinvention – looking to where you want to go, not to where you have been – has always been the guiding philosophy."
Labrador retrievers remained in second place, followed by the golden retriever, German shepherd, and poodle in the top five. Some shuffling occurred in the lower half of the top 10, with beagles moving up to No. 7, rottweilers rising to No. 8, and bulldogs slipping to No. 9.
The cane corso, a powerful Italian mastiff, has made one of the biggest jumps among top breeds. Ranked No. 50 about a decade ago, it now sits at No. 14, reflecting its growing popularity as a loyal and protective companion.
Further down the list, the AKC saw significant shifts in breed rankings. The Kerry blue terrier made the biggest leap, climbing 25 spots to No. 135, while the bracco Italiano, a breed recognized by the AKC in 2022, jumped 20 spots to No. 132.
Other breeds making gains include the German pinscher and American Staffordshire terrier, both up 18 places. The Bedlington terrier and Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever also saw double-digit increases.
Some breeds have slipped in popularity.
The saluki, once ranked No. 120, fell 21 spots to No. 141. The black and tan coonhound dropped 20 spots, while the wirehaired vizsla slid 17.
Larger breeds such as the Neapolitan mastiff and great Pyrenees each dropped 10 spots. At the bottom of the rankings, the English foxhound is now the least popular breed, coming in at No. 201.
Founded in 1884, the AKC now recognizes 202 breeds. The Danish-Swedish farmdog is the newest breed set to debut in 2025's rankings.
You can click here to see the AKC's 2024 list of most popular dog breeds in the US.
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