5 Most Popular Dog Breeds in Michigan (Updated in 2024)

Updated on Apr 9, 2024

Long haired Labrador sitting in the park

Although numerous breeds are living on practically every continent, every region has its favorites. The appeal of each dog is highly subjective and varies from person to person, yet at the same time, some breeds have gathered a larger following than others.

As of the last year, the top five dog breeds in the United States of America are the French Bulldog, the Labrador Retriever, the Golden Retriever, the German Shepherd, and the Poodle. If you are curious about how the nation’s top five compare to Michigan’s top five, you can take a look at our list below.

The 5 Most Popular Dog Breeds in Michigan

1. Golden Retriever

golden retriever dog walking on grass at the park — Image Credit: Burin P, Shutterstock

Height:	21.5–24 inches
Weight:	55–75 pounds
Lifespan:	10–12 years

While the Golden Retriever is usually listed as the third most popular dog breed in the USA, according to the American Kennel Club, it has been officially deemed the most popular breed in Michigan. Who can resist their sweet faces and loving dispositions? Goldens are easily trained and friendly towards pretty much anyone!

However, they do have high energy needs so welcome one into your home if you are able to give them the mental stimulation and exercise they need to stay healthy and happy.

2. German Shepherd

german shepherd male and female in field — Image Credit: Kristin Castenschiold, Shutterstock

Height:	22–26 inches
Weight:	50–90 pounds
Lifespan:	12–14 years

Next on this list of Michigan’s most popular dogs is the German Shepherd. This highly recognizable breed is known for being brave, loyal, and protective. But they can also be wonderfully friendly and adaptable. They are responsive to training but need mental stimulation. Otherwise, they might get a bit destructive if left to their own devices. Since this is a larger dog, welcome one into your home if you have the proper space for one.

3. Chihuahua

senior chihuahua dog with long hair — Image Credit: Claudia, Shutterstock

Height:	5–8 inches
Weight:	Less than 6 pounds
Lifespan:	14–16 years

Good things come in small packages! This is why the Chihuahua is the third most popular dog breed in Michigan. Although this dog may be small in size, it is big in personality. This can be a good thing at times but can also be difficult. Chihuahuas can be wary of strangers and fiercely protective of their family. They can be barkers, too! Despite this, they are loyal and playful. Even though they are small, they do need daily exercise to keep them fit and mentally stimulated.

4. Shih Tzu

Blue_Gray Shih Tzu — Image Credit: Mike Workman, Shutterstock

Height:	9–10.5 inches
Weight:	9–16 pounds
Lifespan:	10–18 years

Another little dog makes the list of Michigan’s most popular dog breeds: the Shih Tzu. But there are plenty of good reasons for this. They are affectionate, outgoing, and wonderful with other dogs. However, because of their silky coat, they will require grooming almost weekly. This little pooch will be perfectly happy being a lap dog, so you may need to encourage them to get some exercise. Obesity is a problem for small dogs.

5. Goldendoodle

a female F2B goldendoodle lying on the grass — Image Credit: cine-nomadic, Shutterstock

Height:	20—24 inches
Weight:	50—90 pounds
Lifespan:	10—15 years

While the Goldendoodle is not an official breed accepted by the American Kennel Club. devoted fans of the hybrid consider them just as valid as a purebred. Apparently, there are several diehard fans in Michigan.

The Goldendoodle is a cross between the Golden Retriever and the Poodle, which you’ll remember are two of the nation’s most popular dog breeds. Therefore, it stands to reason that a mix of the two breeds would be popular in Michigan.

What Are the Most Popular Dog Breeds in Detroit, MI?

Even though Detroit is a major city in Michigan, the most popular breeds there are quite different:

Conclusion

Michigan’s top breeds are the Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, Chihuahua, Shih Tzu, and Goldendoodle.

Don’t be discouraged if you live in Michigan and your dog isn’t on this list. Just because certain breeds are more prominent in a certain state doesn’t mean the dog you love isn’t worthy. It’s due to devoted individuals like you that these five dogs became so popular, so it’s possible that your favorite breed could become more popular, too.

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Featured Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock