There's no single "World No. 1" dog, as it depends on the criteria, but the French Bulldog is currently the most popular breed by registration (AKC) and highly searched globally, while the Rottweiler is the most searched breed online in many countries, and the Kangal is considered the strongest. Popularity varies by region and metric, with Labradors and Golden Retrievers also consistently ranking high.
#1: Labrador Retrievers
Labrador Retrievers are among the most popular dogs in the world for many reasons. One of these is their ability to keep up with active owners. Labs love running through streams and even swimming in pools and lakes, and they're also great at carrying loads.
Every year the American Kennel Club releases our ranking of the most popular dog breeds based on AKC registration statistics for the previous year. The French Bulldog continues to top the rankings at the No. 1 spot for the third year in a row.
American Kennel Club has named the Labrador retriever, the French bulldog and the golden retriever as the three most popular dog breeds of 2025. "I think, one, they're adorable … but also, I think as we do smaller living, and more people live in apartments, they're highly adaptable.
The #1 smartest dog breed, consistently ranked by experts like Dr. Stanley Coren, is the Border Collie, known for its exceptional ability to learn commands quickly (sometimes in under five repetitions) and obey them consistently, excelling in problem-solving and demanding mental stimulation. Other top contenders for intelligence often include the Poodle, German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, and Shetland Sheepdog, recognized for their trainability and eagerness to please.
Most loyal dog breeds are good family dogs, though some might be better suited for older children.
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There's no single "number 1" laziest dog, but the English Bulldog is consistently ranked at or near the top for its low energy, love of naps, and tendency to be a couch potato, followed closely by breeds like the Basset Hound, Great Dane, and Shih Tzu, all known for being relaxed companions. These breeds prefer lounging and short strolls over strenuous activity, making them ideal for laid-back owners.
The Labrador Retriever held the title from 1991 until 2023. Since then, the French Bulldog has been the most popular dog breed in America.
The calmest dog breeds often include large, gentle giants like the Saint Bernard, Newfoundland, and Great Dane, along with smaller, easygoing companions such as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Basset Hound, Pug, and English Bulldog, all known for their relaxed, affectionate, and laid-back temperaments, though individual dogs vary. Sighthounds like the Greyhound are also surprisingly calm indoors, needing short bursts of energy but otherwise content to lounge.
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If your dog seems relaxed in their posture and not tense or stiff, this is a good indication they are feeling good. Loose shoulders, soft eyes without a fixed gaze, and a dose of 'wiggliness' or pure 'flopped-outness' are all clues that your dog's feeling super chill. They're playful.
1. Labrador Retriever: The Labrador Retriever reigns supreme as oneof the most beloved dog breeds worldwide. Known for their friendly demeanor,intelligence, and versatility, Labs excel as family pets, working dogs, andservice animals.
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1. Golden Retrievers. Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds around, and part of the reason for this is the affectionate personality common to the breed. They're known for being loving and loyal, but they're also very smart dogs, making them quite easy to train.
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Irish Setter
Irish Setters thrive on companionship rather than solitude. If you're looking for a safe and trainable breed for your active family, an Irish Setter is an excellent choice. It loves to exercise in the backyard, out on the trail or at the dog park.
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The "heartbreak breed" refers primarily to the Great Dane, nicknamed this due to their affectionate nature combined with a relatively short lifespan (around 7-10 years) and susceptibility to serious heart conditions like dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), making losing them particularly difficult for their devoted owners. Other giant breeds like Irish Wolfhounds, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Saint Bernards also face significant health challenges, including cancer and heart disease, often earning them similar sentiments from owners.
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