Fluffy, Spot, Rover, and Max all have one thing in common: They’re man’s best friend. And though he might come in all shapes and sizes, the most important detail is that he’s yours (or you’re his, in some cases… we don’t judge). Just like hit music and fad diets, the types of dog breeds that people adopt as pets has it’s trends. Each year, the American Kennel Club publishes a list of the top dog breeds and we thought we’d share that list with you today. At Boulder’s Natural Animal, it doesn’t matter whether your dog comes with a flawless pedigree or is the mutt of the century; we love them all and we’re dedicated to providing them with the kind of care that brings a tail wag every time!
Top 10 Dog Breeds of 2011
Labrador Retriever: The friendly, loyal, and intelligent Labrador Retriever has lovingly hogged this top spot on the American Kennel Club’s list for 20 years!
German Shepherd: This protective, athletic, and loyal breed has closely trailed the number one spot for a long time. A little known fact about German Shepherds: they require a lot of human attention and so are a good choice for pet owners who can dedicate substantial time to them.
Yorkshire Terrier: This breed makes a great lab dog but also can be a little ball of energy and enthusiasm. Their small size makes them a good choice for less-active owners.
Beagle: Beagles are a very popular breed because of their even temper and medium size. They are also quite intelligent and seem to lack inherited health problems which is a big plus for any adoring pet owner!
Golden Retriever: This breed is the true family dog, and for good reason. The Golden Retriever is loving, cheerful, and very forgiving. This breed has a tendency to chew but the habit can be properly trained away with the right amount of attention. Check out our Furry Focus on Mukki Betts to learn of one Golden Retriever’s care at our hospital.
Bulldog: Bulldogs make great companions and terrible watch dogs because their highly social personality brings a tendency to want human company all of the time. This breed is rated one of the best for small children.
Boxer: The sociable and active Boxer may seem like a highly independent and proud breed, but don’t be fooled: Boxers crave human attention and don’t make great yard dogs. They have a tendency to age slowly and hang on to their adorable puppy characteristics for 3-4 years!
Dachshund: Don’t mistake their small size for timidness – Dachshunds are quite courageous and independent dogs. They also make great cuddlers due to their tendency to burrow.
Poodles: The Standard Poodle is a larger breed of Poodle and is well-known for it’s high-maintenance coat of fur. Standard Poodles are friendly and less energetic and skittish than their smaller counterparts. For a little more insight into the temperament of a fabulous standard poodle, check out our Furry Focus on Bella Boop Brockmann.
Shih Tzu: The small and independent Shih Tzu is a great pet for less active owners. This breed loves to cuddle and will definitely let you know what its likes and dislikes are.
