We want to help animal lovers find the perfect pup for their lifestyle. We’ll provide detailed information on the most popular breeds in The US, benefits of owning a furry companion,
plus, guidance on how to prevent dog bites and foster a safe, positive environment for both owners and dogs.
Top 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds in The United States – Every year the American Kennel Club (AKC) uses their registration statistics to determine the most popular breeds of that year. For 2023, the top 10 were as follows.
| French Bulldog |
| Labrador Retriever |
| Golden Retriever |
| German Shepard |
| Poodle |
| Dachshund |
| Bulldog |
| Beagle |
| Rottweiler |
| German Shorthaired Pointer |
Though the above dogs are the most popular, does that mean one of those breeds is the best for you? When considering getting a dog, you must think about these questions.
- How much time do you have to spend with your furry friend daily?
- How trainable do you want your new pup to be?
- Do you want a dog that needs a high level of exercise?
- Does anyone in your home have allergies to animals?
- Can you handle grooming your dog daily?
Benefits of Owning a Dog – Physical & Mental
Once you have found your perfect match, here are a few of the overall health benefits you will start to notice from owning this new furry companion.
- Stress and anxiety reduction
- A calming presence
- Lower rates of depression
- Lowered blood pressure
- Lowered risk of heart disease
- Increase in walking/exercise
Preventing Dog Bites
We recently spoke with dog behaviorist Susan Nilson (CAPBT (COAPE Association of Pet Behaviorists and Trainers) and PPAB (Pet Professional Accreditation Board) of The Cat and Dog House about adopting a new furry companion during the holiday season and here’s what she said.
“The holiday period, with its increased activity and visitors, can be overwhelming even for well-socialized dogs, let alone a newly adopted pet who is still adjusting to their new home. A dog should never be forced to interact with anyone if they don’t want to. Instead, allow your dog to choose when and if they want to approach others. If they want to retreat to their safe space, that’s fine. This gives them a sense of control over their environment, which helps reduce stress.”
- Socialize your dog!
- Adopt from a reputable shelter
- Take your pup to a reward-based training class
- Supervise your dog always!
- Get your dog their vaccinations!
Signs of Aggression –
- Ears up and forward, fur on back standing up
- Growling, lunging, showing teeth
- Crouching body, avoiding eye contact, tail between legs
Recognizing these signs helps you understand when your dog is feeling uncomfortable or threatened. If you notice signs of stress, give your dog space and avoid pushing them into situations that may escalate. Consult our infographic to learn more about how to properly approach a dog.
Find the Perfect Pup for Your Lifestyle
At DeMayo Law Offices, we understand that life can get hectic, especially when adjusting to a new furry family member. That’s why our team provides support and resources for dog owners.
Embracing the responsibilities of puppy parenthood means ensuring the well-being of your dog and enjoying the countless rewards that come with it. With the right tools and support, you can turn your new puppy into a well-behaved companion who fills your days with joy and love.
