French Bulldogs Remain Top Dog Breed in U.S., Dachshunds Rise

While French Bulldogs lead, Dachshunds climb to 5th most popular breed, raising health concerns.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 4:06am

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The American Kennel Club has released its annual list of the most popular dog breeds in the United States, with the French Bulldog maintaining its top spot for the fourth consecutive year. However, the Dachshund has made a surprising climb, reaching the 5th position - its highest ranking since 2003.

Why it matters

The rising popularity of certain breeds, like the French Bulldog and Dachshund, highlights the need for potential pet owners to research a breed's health issues and ensure they can provide the proper care. Certain breeds, such as those with flat faces or long backs, are prone to more health problems that can require expensive medical treatment.

The details

The top five most popular dog breeds in the U.S. are: 1) French Bulldog, 2) Labrador Retriever, 3) Golden Retriever, 4) German Shepherd, and 5) Dachshund. The Dachshund's rise to the 5th spot is notable, as the breed has hovered in the top 10 for many years. However, Dachshunds, like French Bulldogs, can be prone to health issues, particularly with their spine.

  • The American Kennel Club released its annual list of most popular dog breeds on March 19, 2026.

The players

American Kennel Club

The American Kennel Club is the largest purebred dog registry in the United States, maintaining the official list of the most popular dog breeds in the country.

Gina DiNardo

The President and CEO of the American Kennel Club, who provided commentary on the popularity of certain breeds and the importance of researching a breed's health needs.

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What they’re saying

“While the French bulldog is a wonderful companion for many, it is not a 'one size fits all' breed.”

— Gina DiNardo, President and CEO, American Kennel Club

“Another breed to watch this year is the curious, spunky Dachshund. The breed has hovered in the top 10 most popular breeds for many years, and it's no surprise that it's back in the top five. Dachshunds are very intelligent, excellent problem solvers and adorable.”

— Gina DiNardo, President and CEO, American Kennel Club

What’s next

The American Kennel Club will likely release its 2027 list of most popular dog breeds in the United States in March 2027, providing an update on whether the French Bulldog and Dachshund maintain their top rankings.

The takeaway

The rising popularity of certain dog breeds, like the French Bulldog and Dachshund, underscores the importance for potential pet owners to research a breed's specific health needs and ensure they can provide the proper care. While these breeds may be adorable, their physical characteristics can lead to costly medical issues that new owners should be prepared to address.