12 Most Popular Dog Breeds In Ohio (Updated In 2024)
By Ashley Bates
Updated on
The American Kennel Club (AKC) lists national canine favorites as a whole, creating their very own breed popularity list. But have you ever wondered which are the most popular breeds in each state? You might wonder which dogs are picked the most if you’re an Ohio dweller.
You might already have a good idea, seeing that you can personally witness other people’s dogs when out in public. But here are the 12 most popular dog breeds you might see running around in the state of Ohio. Some of these will come as no surprise, but we do hope you learn something about each of these fantastic pups.
Top 12 Most Popular Dog Breeds in Ohio:
1. Golden Retriever
It is no surprise that the Golden Retriever is on the AKC popularity list near the top. That matches up to Ohio’s favorite dogs. Golden Retrievers are some of the most common dogs you’ll see if you live in or visit Ohio. It’s really no wonder these dogs are so popular.
Characteristics
Golden Retrievers are exceptional for growing families, single owners, people with active or moderately sedentary lifestyles, folks with illnesses or disabilities, and the list goes on. These beautiful dogs will greet you cheerfully and remain faithfully by your side their whole lives.
Even though the Golden Retriever was raised as a hunting companion, they have made their way into the home and won’t be leaving anytime soon. We can go on all day about the wonderful characteristics of the Golden Retriever, but we have to give the good and the bad.
Golden Retrievers tend to be slightly hyper as puppies, requiring a lot of mental stimulation, physical exertion, and proper training. If you aren’t up for the challenge, this might not be the right dog for you.
Also, Golden Retrievers are a long-haired, double-coated breed. That means they will shed profusely year round blowing their coat twice a year. If you have any allergy sufferers in the home or don’t like cleaning up a lot of loose hair, you might want to consider a different breed.
2. Labrador Retriever
Here’s another dog that made its way onto the AKC popularity list that is just as well known in Ohio. The Labrador Retriever makes a perfect family companion, happily romping around with the kids, hiking with you outdoors, or sitting by your side enjoying the evening views on the porch.
Characteristics
These dogs are quite suitable for various lifestyles, permitting you to provide them with the necessary exercise. Labs are very high-energy dogs, originally used for hunting, that require a lot of physical activity in our daily life.
If you are the kind of person who loves to be on the go, these dogs will happily accompany you anywhere. These cheerful pups make friends everywhere they go as well. They are extremely good with children, strangers, and other dogs.
Because they have hunting roots, they might have a relatively high prey drive. However, when they are properly socialized, they get along with cats and can even make good helpers for tasks at home.
Many Labs in Ohio still accompany owners on hunts, which is a popular activity in Ohio. While these dogs make exceptional companions, they can also have their downfalls. Exercise is non-negotiable and they require at least 80 minutes of exertion daily.
A dog of this breed can also take a long time to mature, making them complicated for some novice owners if they are a bit too rowdy. The high prey drive is also hard for some to manage, particularly if a person has smaller pets.
3. German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is also a common sight in Ohio. These wonderful dogs make excellent companions for a variety of people. German Shepherds are well known as one of the smartest of all canines.
It’s no wonder their brains lend them jobs on police task forces, in rules of service, and in emotional support. Even though these dogs are workaholics, they make amazingly loyal and excellent family companions to the right homes.
Characteristics
Unlike the first two dogs, German Shepherds do best with experienced dog owners as they have particular needs that might be challenging for some. These dogs absolutely love having a job to do. This quality makes training relatively easy as they are very willing to learn.
They make exceptional guard dogs and have very good judgment. Since they are so loyal to their owners, they also listen very well to commands and understand their role in the household pack. When raised alongside children, German Shepherds do very well with them and other canines in the home.
While these dogs certainly deserve a lot of praise, there are a few things to mention here. First, they can have quite a high prey drive, so if you plan on having cats, you should raise them together to ensure compatibility.
German Shepherds can be very protective of their families, which can be challenging if they are suspicious of strangers. They also require room to roam and explore, or they will become bored and can develop destructive tendencies. They are not the type to stay in a kennel all day without consequences later. They also shed a lot, so they aren’t good for allergy sufferers.
4. Goldendoodle
Goldendoodles are ever-growing in popularity, and Ohio is definitely one of the places they thrive. This designer dog is a combination of a Golden Retriever and a poodle. What makes these dogs so fantastic is that they are hypoallergenic and ever-so-adorable.
They give allergy sufferers a chance to have the Golden Retriever’s wonderful personality qualities combined with the Poodle’s hypoallergenic nature. Granted, there are several generations, each with their own coat types and personalities.
Characteristics
It is important to learn a little bit more about the breed before you choose to get one. These dogs tend to be cheerful and happy, always on the go. They are often suitable for service roles and can be great for emotional support.
Another fun thing about this breed is that you can take them to get all sorts of exciting haircuts. This, however, might not be attractive if you prefer to have a maintenance-free dog. You must anticipate groomer costs or learn to cut their hair yourself at home.
While Goldendoodles are highly revered as amazing pets, there are some downfalls to the breed itself. These dogs tend to be very rambunctious, and can develop separation anxiety and behavioral issues. Since they are designer dogs, it’s also hard to regulate breeding to ensure proper temperament.
So, buying from a licensed, reputable breeder is completely necessary if you’re considering getting one of these dogs. Doing so will ensure you have a dog of sound temperament and health.
5. Labradoodle
People just can’t get enough of Labs! The Labradoodle is another very common dog breed in Ohio that keeps increasing in popularity. These dogs combine the Poodle with the Labrador Retriever, making a hypoallergenic, adventurous breed that is incredibly faithful to their family.
Characteristics
Because of their spunky personalities and high desire for affection, they make very good playmates for children. The two will match each other’s energy levels very well, creating a perfect match for a lifelong best friend.
Labradoodles will absolutely love to be outside! They work very well in families with large fenced-in backyards or much room to explore. This is a fantastic pick if you want a jogging or hiking buddy.
One downfall of a Labradoodle is that they eat everything! So be sure that you give them something to chew on at all times that is entirely dog friendly.
This dog can grow with many different lifestyles, but they do not make the best choices for apartment living. Like Goldendoodles, always make sure to buy from a reputable breeder with all the proper vetting to avoid health issues.
6. Beagle
The Beagle has been a very popular pick in Ohio for a very long time. Ohio is pretty big on hunting, so it is no surprise that this hunting breed finds its home here in the hills. Beagles are classically good pets for several reasons.
Characteristics
Their small size makes them compatible with many smaller living situations, such as apartments. But their durability and hunting roots also make them suitable for country living.
These happy-go-lucky little dogs will get along very well with all household members and tend not to choose favorites. They get along with everyone equally, including other pets in the home. They love having other canines to romp around with and enjoy the company of kids.
Because they are a hunting breed, early socialization is recommended if you have any smaller pets. While Beagles tend not to be aggressive in any way, their prey drive can get the better of them, and they may scare or accidentally hurt other animals.
7. Boxer
The wonderful Boxer makes its way into homes all across Ohio – and it’s really no wonder! These dogs are exceptional family companions and adorable to boot. The Boxer is certainly a loyal and affectionate breed, making them ideal choices for individuals or families looking for a dog to spend quality time with.
Characteristics
This dog thrives on human companionship and loves nothing more than time with their people. The Boxer is also very protective of their owners, making them even better choices for those who want a watchdog or guard dog hanging around.
Many Boxers have a strong instinct to look out for the little ones. Even though they are a large breed, they typically do very well with children when they are appropriately socialized. Sometimes, a poorly socialized Boxer could exhibit territorial aggression, but it is usually avoidable with proper breeding.
Unfortunately, Boxers can get a bad rap in Ohio. Certain landlords don’t accept the breed due to the potential for aggression. However, every Boxer lover knows that most are exceptional creatures they wouldn’t trade for the world.
Because the Boxer is brachycephalic, they have short muzzles and protruding eyes. This facial shape can cause certain breathing difficulties, so it’s best not to exercise them for extended periods or in extreme heat circumstances.
8. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is another Ohio favorite. These little dogs are very compatible with folks for several reasons, and their little structure makes them compatible with many different living situations.
These dogs make excellent companions, especially for single owners. These dogs tend to do better with older people rather than children, as they are relatively small and can have very big, bossy personalities.
Not only can they get hurt easily, they also tend to have little dog syndrome and think they’re much bigger than they are. For this reason, it can be hard to mix that with a child. Chihuahuas are also challenging to potty train.
Characteristics
Chihuahuas are very loyal companions, and they tend to choose just one owner to love.
They might get along with other members of the household, but they will take to a particular person. This is another trait that makes them excellent for single owners or retired couples. These dogs are also velcro dogs, wanting to attach to you at all points in time.
So, if you’re looking for a canine buddy to tag along with you everywhere you go, these dogs beat both the size and personality requirements for the job.
Something to mention about Chihuahuas is that they are intolerant to extreme temperatures. They can get very cold quickly as they don’t have a lot of hair or extra muscle for body heat. They are also complicated to train, making them a little challenging for novice dog owners.
9. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a very chill and collected companion that Ohioans just seem to love! These little dogs are adventurous and spirited but also laid back, cuddly, and carefree. A Shih Tzu blends very well with a variety of different lifestyles.
Characteristics
Shih Tzus make fantastic companions for growing families as well as single owners. Because of their demeanor, they can make good pets for folks with disabilities as well. These dogs work well in apartments or in larger spaces.
Grooming is a must with this type of dog. They have long hair that requires professional grooming and daily brushing. You can choose the coat type to make management more effortless. You can also pick all sorts of fancy hairdos and accessories to make them look even more adorable!
Shih Tzus are traditionally lap dogs and love being next to their people. These aren’t the type to run off as they are very attached, earning them a velcro dog title. Because they are smaller and can get hurt easily, we recommend them for older, mannerly children that can handle them with care.
Shih Tzus are very prone to dental problems and other health conditions. Proper breeding is a must, so always ensure that your breeder is reputable.
10. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs have been gaining traction in the past few years, and Ohio is no exception. These dogs continue to grow in popularity, and it’s really no wonder! These dogs have fantastic personalities, being extremely chipper, outgoing, and incredibly affectionate.
We’ve all seen cute videos on the internet of Frenchies demonstrating their vocal range. These dogs talk to their owners and acclimate to being tight-knit household members.
Characteristics
French Bulldogs are very spunky and love to be in on all the action. They make extremely good additions to families who want a little compact dog they can take everywhere they go. These dogs are highly social and love interacting with other canines and people.
While they might sound the alarms, they get very excited to have company and mesh well with people of all ages. The one downfall to a French Bulldog is that they are generally costly and are among the nation’s most stolen dog breeds.
Due to breeding complications, costs usually run very high right up front, and breeders need to cover their losses. Also, Frenchies are sought after and will undoubtedly be more expensive than some other breeds.
The major downfall of Frenchies is that they tend to have a lot of health issues.
11. Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is another dog you will see most often in Ohio. This highly active breed wins hearts because of its cheerful personality and wide availability. They also have some of the most lovely markings you’ll ever see!
Many merle Aussies are heterochromatic, meaning they have two different eye colors. Other popular breeds that share this trait are Huskies and Great Danes. Australian Shepherds are quite interesting looking, coming in beautiful patterns. They have long coats that require frequent brushing.
Characteristics
Australian Shepherds are incredibly smart and require an experienced owner. If you are not comfortable training this type of dog, you might opt for professional help, as it can be challenging.
While Aussies are renowned for their brains, a bored pup can be very destructive and behaviorally unsound. If they exercise properly and receive mental stimulation, they make wonderful companion animals that impress you with their capabilities.
These dogs are very high energy, perfect for active families who want to have a canine companion on their adventures. They will gladly go hiking, jogging, and even herding if you want a dog to help out on the farm.
Because they are herding dogs, they often nip at the heels as a breed instinct. This is a way that they keep livestock in line. If you have small children, they might also try this behavior on them, which can be scary and problematic. For this reason, we recommend these dogs for children 6 and older.
12. English Bulldog
An English Bulldog has been a favorite for a while and continues to be to this day! They have decreased slightly in popularity due to their myriad of health issues. But their fun-loving personalities keep people coming back for more.
Characteristics
The Bulldog is a perfect combination of characteristics, making them wonderful companion animals for various lifestyles. Bulldogs are typically big softies, getting along very well with strangers and friends alike.
Occasionally, you might have a territorial Bulldog that doesn’t really enjoy the company of others, but this is usually a pretty rare occurrence. Because of their big beefy nature, some people might get the wrong impression, thinking that they are a bully or brute.
But the truth is, these guys are muscly, slobbery teddy bears. However, because they are like bulldozers, they work best for older children that can’t get knocked down or hurt accidentally.
We also want to mention that this dog has a ton of health issues! Because of years of poor breeding practices, they might be one of the most unhealthy breeds to exist on the AKC list. They can suffer from everything from skin infections to life-threatening heart problems.
Other Popular Breeds
This list covers the most popular breeds in Ohio. But it doesn’t end there. Here are some other familiar faces you might see around:
- Pit bulls
- Huskies
- Great Danes
- Poodles
- Maltese
- Corgis
Conclusion
So now you know that these 12 breeds are the most popular you’ll see in the state of Ohio. Others crop up frequently, but these are certainly among the most seen. Did your dog make the list? If not, don’t be disheartened. Consider yourself lucky to have a less common, unique pup.
Of all these dogs, which one was your favorite?
See also:
- 7 Best Couch Covers for Dog Hair
- 15 Most Popular Dog Breeds in the Philippines: Update (With Pictures)
Featured Image Credit: lancegfx, Pixabay
