3 Most Popular Dog Breeds by US State (With Info & Pictures)

The French Bulldog had a banner year in 2022 and stole the top dog status from the long-time most popular breed in America, the Labrador Retriever. The changing of the guard was a concerted effort among the country’s 50 states, but as you can imagine, not all agree that the Frenchie is number one.

As with everything else, culture plays a role in the dogs we pick, with each canine representing a small part of its region’s unique character. Which dog breed is your state’s favorite pet? Find out which pups are stealing hearts in your neck of the woods as we break down the most popular dog breeds by state.

The 3 Most Popular Dog Breeds by State

1. Alabama

In a state rooted in rural tradition, hard work, and family values, it’s reasonable that the Labrador Retriever would be the top choice for Alabama households. The German Shepherd, another national favorite, is no surprise among the state’s top dogs, while the Beagle also makes a special appearance on the list of favorites. The adorable hound fits beautifully with the state’s hunting culture, sporting a happy-go-lucky attitude that any family can appreciate.

2. Alaska

Alaska’s open country and challenging climate bring local working dogs to the state’s list of most popular dogs. While familiar favorites like Labs, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers remain as popular as ever up north, the Alaskan Husky joins the state dog, the Alaskan Malamute, as disruptors in the top ten.

3. Arizona

Hunting and herding dogs lead all breeds in the Grand Canyon State. Golden and Labrador Retrievers are popular in purebred and doodle form, sitting alongside hard-working German and Australian Shepherds among the top dogs in the state. Other prized pups include Poodles, French Bulldogs, Yorkshire Terriers, and the Southwest favorite Chihuahua.

4. Arkansas

Arkansas is for dog lovers, as the state is a national leader in ownership rates. The Labrador Retriever and German Shepherd are no surprise at the top of the Natural State’s list of favorite breeds. Breeds like the French Bulldog, American Bulldog, and the closely related Boxer also fit among its most popular varieties.

5. California

The Golden State has enough city living to accommodate the urban-friendly French Bulldog, which sits among California’s most popular dog breeds. The Frenchie is the top dog in San Francisco, San Diego, and Los Angeles, while the Labrador Retriever, Bulldog, Golden Retriever, and the up-and-coming Cane Corso also enjoy plenty of popularity.

6. Colorado

As the home of the Rockies, Colorado’s inspirational landscape is rich in activity and opportunity, and the state’s inhabitants are quick to find a stout pup to share outdoor adventures with. While the French Bulldog surges in popularity in areas like Denver, prized working dog breeds like Labs, Goldens, Australian Shepherds, Huskies, Australian Cattle Dogs, and Border Collies enjoy a healthy following.

7. Connecticut

Connecticut’s top breeds mix traditional choices with offbeat entries. While Labs, Goldens, and Frenchies are the most popular, Cane Corsos, Shih Tzus, Boxers, Shiba Inus, and Poodle mixes have garnered immense interest in recent years. Most recently, many in the state voted for the Siberian Husky to be Connecticut’s state dog if it ever adopts the official symbol.

8. Delaware

Although Delaware recently replaced the Golden Retriever with the “rescue dog” as its official state dog, they still enjoy a spot at the top of the state’s list of favorite breeds. Labs and German Shepherds are also unsurprising, but the Akita and Poodle are two unexpectedly prized varieties in the First State.

9. Florida

Florida has several miles of sand-filled coastline and is a tourist destination for beach seekers and amusement park lovers. Which dog breeds get to enjoy the Sunshine State year-round? Nationwide favorites like Golden and Labrador Retrievers join the French Bulldog, German Shepherd, and Poodle among the top dogs. The Cane Corso, Shiba Inu, and Boxer are also popular in Florida.

10. Georgia

Everyone’s favorite dog in Georgia is the “adoptable dog,” the state’s official dog, and the Bulldog (obviously), but more familiar breeds still reign supreme. The French Bulldog accompanies Retrievers and the German Shepherd as the most popular breeds in the state. Other desirable dogs include Beagles, Rottweilers, Poodles, and designer crosses.

11. Hawaii

Hawaii’s favorite dogs wake up to the nation’s ultimate slice of paradise. The Frenchie, Lab, and Rottweiler luck out as the state’s most popular breeds, but other small dogs, including the Pomeranian and Chihuahua, are well-established as preferred pets. With smaller properties than the mainland, the island state is a perfect fit for compact breeds.

12. Idaho

Idaho may be famous for its spuds, but its most popular dogs are no couch potatoes. Classic family dogs, including Labs, Goldens, and German Shepherds, enjoy the open expanses to release their energy and play. Unsurprisingly, active breeds like Siberian Huskies, Border Collies, and Goldendoodles are also popular in the Gem State.

13. Illinois

Illinois features the ever-popular Lab and German Shepherd, but rising canine stars are starting to change the dog ownership landscape statewide. Consistent leaders among the most-searched breeds in its major cities include the Frenchie, Cane Corso, and Australian Shepherd.

14. Indiana

Working breeds are right at home in a state built on agriculture and sports pride. The Hoosier State’s top dogs are the capable German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever, and Golden Retriever, but several newcomers are gaining popularity. Alongside the national favorite Frenchie, popular dogs in areas like Fort Wayne, Fishers, and Carmel include the Cane Corso, Australian Shepherd, and Bernese Mountain Dog.

15. Iowa

Known for agriculture and politics, Iowa stays relatively commonplace in most areas of life, including the choice of dogs. Retrievers and the German Shepherd are the state’s favorite breeds, though a few unexpected dogs like the Chow Chow and Yorkie enjoy notable popularity.

16. Kansas

Although no dog will better represent Kansas than the Cairn Terrier, the true star of The Wizard of Oz, the cheerful spark plug isn’t on the state’s current list of most popular breeds. Instead, familiar varieties like Labs, Goldens, and German Shepherds occupy most households in the state. Otherwise, Kansas residents enjoy Bulldogs, Boxers, Poodles, and doodles.

17. Kentucky

Kentucky’s affinity for Beagles is one they’re proud to share with the world. Even one of Meghan Markle’s adored Beagles came from a Mt. Sterling animal shelter! But in a state with one of the highest dog ownership rates, there’s enough love for several breeds, such as the Lab, Golden Retriever, Australian Shepherd, Border Collie, and Pit Bull Terrier.

18. Louisiana

The Catahoula Leopard Dog has been Louisiana’s official state dog for decades, but it still has yet to crack the list of top breeds in the state. The Pelican State’s most popular pets are common favorites like the Lab, Beagle, and German Shepherd, with Boxers, Yorkies, and Bulldogs also sitting among the most-preferred breeds.

19. Maine

Maine is more of a cat state, with its cold-weather-ready Maine Coon serving as an appropriate ambassador for the state’s pets. But dogs are certainly built for the landscape, especially in dog-friendly areas of the gorgeous Acadia National Park.

The state’s most popular dogs, including Labs, Goldens, and German Shepherds, are perfect outdoor companions. Meanwhile, the Siberian Husky and Australian Shepherd are prominent for their practicality and fit perfectly with Maine’s climate and landscape.

20. Maryland

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever isn’t one of Maryland’s favorite dogs, despite being its official breed since 1964. Residents of the Free State instead opt for more familiar family-loving hunting dogs in Golden and Labrador Retrievers. For their part, Baltimore residents take to Pit Bull Terriers and small yet spritely dogs like Beagles, Jack Russell Terriers, and Pugs.

21. Massachusetts

Although the state dog has held a special place in the hearts of Bay Staters since 1979, the Boston Terrier isn’t the top breed in Massachusetts. Dog owners love Retrievers and the subversive French Bulldog, while the German Shepherd, Poodle, Cane Corso, and Shiba Inu also enjoy devoted followings.

22. Michigan

Classic breeds head Michigan’s list of favorite dog breeds. However, newcomers are quickly spurring interest, especially in the cities. The Frenchie is enjoying consistent popularity in Detroit and other urban areas, as are the Cane Corso and Australian Shepherd.

23. Minnesota

You’ll want an adventurous dog in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Minnesota residents know as much, preferring energetic and able dogs like Labs, Goldens, and German Shepherds. Sporting dogs like the German Shorthaired Pointer and English Springer Spaniel are surprising yet well-suited inclusions in the state’s top ten dog breeds. With so many active pups on the list, it’s strange that Minnesota stands out as having the fattest dogs in the country!

24. Mississippi

The Southern tradition of loving Beagles holds strong in Mississippi, where over half the residents own a dog. In a state known for its charm, residents choose some of the canine world’s biggest charmers, including Labs, German Shepherds, Bulldogs, and Frenchies.

25. Missouri

Missouri sticks with the nation’s current favorites by putting the Frenchie, Lab, and German Shepherd in its top three list. But the Show Me state switches it up with unique preferences in the Australian Cattle Dog and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Meanwhile, the trending Cane Corso and Australian Shepherd are becoming as popular in Missouri as old favorites such as the Poodle and Bulldog.

26. Montana

They say you get a Subaru and a dog as soon as you move to the state, but Montana’s love for dogs is no joke. Labs, Goldens, and German Shepherds are active and athletic favorites for families looking to enjoy Big Sky Country with their pets. The Australian Cattle Dog is not far behind and is a loyal, long-lived, and hard-working companion.

27. Nebraska

Nebraska is another state leading the way in canine obesity, despite athletic breeds like Labs, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds occupying most homes in the state. But in a land known for corn, Kool-Aid, and Reubens, the culture may predispose them to a little extra weight.

28. Nevada

Deserts may define the state, but that doesn’t stop Nevada residents from holding the heat-hating Bulldog in high regard. Bulldogs join the ever-popular Labrador Retriever and German Shepherd as the Silver State’s most desired breeds. Sin City denizens keep with the city’s tradition of straying from the norm, opting for Pit Bull Terriers and smaller dogs like Poms, Maltese, and Mini Schnauzers.

29. New Hampshire

New Hampshire chose the Chinook as its official state dog in 2009, but it seems like it may need a bit more time to gain popularity with its citizens. The most popular dog breeds in the Granite State are old standards, including the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and German Shepherd.

30. New Jersey

Abundant in beaches, boardwalks, urban streets, and nature paths, New Jersey offers numerous scenic settings for a stroll with the family dog. Garden State locals prefer friendly and active household staples like Retrievers and German Shepherds, though many also favor the tinier Yorkie, Frenchie, and Boxer.

31. New Mexico

While many consider the Chihuahuas and Rez Dogs to be the official state dogs of New Mexico, residents opt for more popular breeds like Labs and Golden Retrievers. Bulldogs are an interesting inclusion in the state’s top three, especially considering the harsh outdoor heat. Departing slightly from the norm, New Mexico dog owners also favor Australian Cattle Dogs, Dachshunds, and Pit Bull Terriers.

32. New York

It’s not a shock that the entertaining and apartment-friendly French Bulldog would be the most popular dog in the bustling Big Apple. But with NYC’s prominence, it’s easy to forget that 99% of the state exists beyond the city lights. In areas like Adirondack Park, the country’s largest state park, active outdoor breeds such as the Labrador and Golden Retriever have tons of space to run and explore.

33. North Carolina

North Carolina named the Plott Hound its state dog almost a decade before it gained AKC recognition. And yet, the attractive scenthound can’t come close to breaking into the Tar Heel State’s list of top dog breeds. Raleigh residents, alongside most North Carolinians, follow the modern trend of choosing Retrievers and Frenchies, but Australian Shepherds, Cane Corsos, and Shiba Inus are also seeing upticks in popularity.

34. North Dakota

The rugged terrain and open plains of North Dakota satisfy desirable active breeds like Labs, Goldens, and German Shepherds. The state’s lineup isn’t particularly unique, as residents also favor popular pups like Poodle mixes, Huskies, and French Bulldogs.

35. Ohio

Ohio follows the mainstream by placing the Labrador Retriever, German Shepherd, and Golden Retriever as its top three dogs. The Pit Bull Terrier, Shih Tzu, Chihuahua, and Mini Schnauzer are also frequent sights, but the Buckeye State is perhaps better known for being home to plenty of mixes, with doodles being some of the most popular dogs.

36. Oklahoma

Dogs are as much a part of Oklahoma’s culture as Route 66, fried food, and its Native American heritage. Labs and German Shepherds are recognizable favorites across the Sooner State, as are the Bulldog, Chihuahua, and Pit Bull Terrier.

37. Oregon

Oregon’s wilderness and majestic landscape are a joy to share with our four-legged friends, with Portland being well-known as one of the most dog-friendly cities in the U.S. Though Retrievers and Frenchies are popular, Oregonians also prefer Corgis, Dachshunds, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Still, the most prized dogs might be various designer mixes that frequent Oregon’s streets and parks, such as the Goldendoodle and Bernedoodle.

38. Pennsylvania

Since 1965, the Great Dane has been Pennsylvania’s state dog, but residents may find the giant breed a little too imposing for their homes. Instead, they opt for more manageable but equally friendly Retrievers and German Shepherds. Residents also love Poodles and their assorted mixes, while Beagles and Chihuahuas meet the needs of those looking for smaller breeds.

39. Rhode Island

The smallest state isn’t the most dog-obsessed place in the country, but Rhode Island’s beautiful shoreline and tranquil wilderness areas offer some of the most fulfilling outings to enjoy with a pup by your side. That might explain why trainable, active, and outgoing dogs like Labs, German Shepherds, and Goldens make such desirable breeds.

40. South Carolina

South Carolina’s diverse settings range from quiet mountain towns to coastal tourist havens, allowing dog breeds of all kinds a place to thrive. Although the Boykin Spaniel has been the state’s official dog since 1985, residents choose the Labrador Retriever and Beagle as their preferred hunting dogs, with the German Shepherd filling out the top three breeds.

41. South Dakota

South Dakota’s favorite dogs are Labs, Goldens, and German Shepherds, staying in lockstep with much of the nation. Shih Tzus, Chihuahuas, and Havanese are popular small breeds, while Poodle mixes and Border Collies also receive ample attention from residents.

42. Tennessee

Whiskey and music are at the center of Tennessee’s culture, but the state’s love of dogs isn’t too far off. Labs, German Shepherds, and the hunting favorite, the Beagle, head the list of familiar nationwide favorites. Residents of the Volunteer State also enjoy the French Bulldog, Poodle, and Bulldog.

43. Texas

Everything’s bigger in Texas, except for the dogs, apparently. While ample-sized pets like Labs and German Shepherds retain popularity across the Lone Star State, smaller breeds are an undeniable go-to for many city dwellers. Alongside the Bulldog, Frenchies are some of the trendiest Houston and Dallas dogs.

44. Utah

From the churches to the mesmerizing natural landscapes, some of the most prominent aspects of Utah’s culture don’t exist anywhere else. But its list of top dogs is about as cookie-cutter as they come. Labs, German Shepherds, and Goldens are the top dogs, but the Goldendoodle is also popular.

45. Vermont

Vermont is the perfect place for forest and field breeds like hunting dogs. The Labrador and Golden Retriever are obvious top options in the picturesque Green Mountain State, and Beagles appear on the list of favorites due to their cheerful and inquisitive personalities. With no metro areas in the state, residents aren’t as inclined to adopt city-friendly dogs.

46. Virginia

Virginians praise George Washington for more than his contributions to the founding of America. As a dog breeder with his wife, Martha, at their Mount Vernon home, Washington is credited as the primary developer of the American Foxhound breed, the state’s official dog since 1966. Though it isn’t among the state’s favorite dogs, the hunters are well-represented, with the Beagle and Lab sitting alongside the German Shepherd on the top three list.

47. Washington

Washington’s favorite dog breeds yield no surprises, as Labs, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers make up the state’s top trio. Frenchies, one of Seattle’s top three choices, is among the state’s most preferred dogs, with the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and Havanese also finding popularity in the Emerald City.

48. West Virginia

West Virginia residents love their dogs as much as the state’s spectacular rugged landscape. The Beagle is popular in a state known for hunting, as are the German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever.

49. Wisconsin

Although the American Water Spaniel originated in Wisconsin and became its official dog long ago in 1985, it still hasn’t found favor as one of the state’s top dog breeds. The hearts of residents in America’s Dairyland instead rest with more expected varieties, including Labs, Goldens, and German Shepherds.

50. Wyoming

The site of two of the nation’s most famous parks has a rich Wild West culture, and it makes sense that capable working dogs would be popular in the state. After the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and German Shepherd, some of the favorite breeds among Wyoming inhabitants include the Australian Cattle Dog, Beagle, and Australian Shepherd.

Conclusion

Like the animals themselves, America’s favorite dogs always seem to be evolving at both the state and national levels. Up-and-coming breeds and designer crosses are gaining steam and threatening the positions of traditional favorites at the top. Major changes took place in 2022 with the rise of the Frenchie, and we’re excited to see what the next year has in store!

See Also:

• Best Dog Breeds for Teens (With Pictures)
• Most Popular Dog Breeds in Massachusetts: Update (With Pictures)

Featured Image Credit: Hungry Snail, Shutterstock