Americans worship Labrador Retrievers – after all this family dog is the most popular in the States for decades, for its amazing personality traits.
Next to Labrador Retrievers, Americans love German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers, but Labs are still their number one.
According to American Kennel Club, Labs popularity is not going down anytime soon.
Labrador Retriever might be American number one, but when you break it down state-by-state, different breeds are actually favorites.
Let’s see which dog breeds are most popular state by state.
Alabama
The top three breeds in Alabama are Labrador Retriever, German Shepherd, and Beagle.
If seeing Beagle here surprises you, know that this breed is great when it comes to hunting skills.
If hunting is a popular sport in your state, know that there will always be a Beagle around.
When it comes to the most popular and hunt-effective dog breed, Beagles are continually among the top three popular hunting breeds in several southern states where hunting is a very popular activity.
These medium-sized dogs are specially bred for hunting, hence their popularity in hunting areas.
Alaska
It comes as no surprise that Alaska loves dogs that enjoy the water and outdoor time.
Since Labs are huge water-lovers they are commonly the number one breed across Alaska.
Now, since Labs love water you can assume that keeping homes extra dry is a bit challenging. Luckily, it is still manageable unless they get daily access to mud.
Next to Labs, Alaskans appreciate German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers.
Although Labs are highly popular, you can expect to see Alaskan Malamute as well. After all, this powerful breed is the official state dog of Alaska.
Arizona
Another state that has soft spot for Labrador Retrievers is Arizona. Next to Labs, Arizonians love having around German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers.
There is also surprisingly high interest in Pit Bull (this breed is still waiting to be officially recognized by AKC), especially in Maricopa County. There, the American Staffordshire Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier are among the 100 most popular dog breeds.
Pit Bulls are generally recommended for experienced dog owners who know their way around highly loyal and physically powerful dogs.
Overall, they are great family dogs who may look intimidating but are true softies.
Arkansas
Arkansas is home to different dog breeds, but Labs, German Shepherds, and Beagles are the most popular household dogs.
Arkansans have a special love for Boxers. Boxers are great working dogs and a nice addition to families of any size.
Did you know that Boxers were one of the first breeds employed as a police dog?
They are also great guard dogs, but they are best known for being extremely loyal and amazing family pets.
Boxers enjoy being around children as long as both children and dogs know how to behave around each other.
California
Californian streets are filled with Labrador Retrievers. Next to this friendly dog breed, Californians love to have German Shepherds and Bulldogs next to them.
San Francisco is home to many French Bulldogs that are widely loved. Frenchies are earning more and more popularity with each passing day.
These dogs are easy-going, fun, and extremely loyal which makes them the perfect addition to families of any size. They are extremely stoic with children of all ages and friendly with strangers.
Colorado
No specific purebred cannot be labeled as Colorado’s favorite dog, because this state is all about rescue dogs!
Rescue dogs are commonly mixed breeds, also known as mutts, and knowing their origin isn’t possible.
Mixed breeds aren’t recognized by the AKC as an actual breed, but they are still worthy of love and affection.
Next to mixed breeds, Coloradans love having and training Labs, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers.
If you want to compare dog breeds before you get a dog, use this compare dog breeds tool, it should also help you understand mixed breeds, as well.
Connecticut
Labrador Retrievers come first in Connecticut. They are followed by highly trainable German Shepherds and active Golden Retrievers.
Connecticuters are all about active dogs. They love breeds that are active, playful, and easy to train.
This is why many homes have an Australian Shepherd. These dogs will usually have two different colored eyes and naturally short tails which only adds to their playful spirit.
Australian Shepherds always look like they are on a mission. Although they are amazing family dogs, they are not for those who don’t like having dog hair all around the place.
They also need a lot of exercises, so an active dog owner is highly needed.
Delaware
Back in 2016, Delaware’s official state dog was Golden Retriever. At the time, the Golden Retriever was the third most popular dog in the States.
Golden Retriever is followed, as expected, by Labrador Retriever and German Shepherd.
It doesn’t come as a big surprise that Golden Retriever is so a beloved breed.
After all, this breed is best known for its friendliness, love toward people, strong devotion, and intelligence.
Florida
The Sunshine State is all about German Shepherds. These heavy shedders are amazing dogs that are great to train.
Next to German Shepherds, Floridians love Labrador and then the Golden Retriever.
Miami is home to the majority of German Shepherds and Frenchie is right after them.
According to AKC, West Palm Beach prefers having Frenchies around. German Shepherd is a breed for experienced dog owners, no matter how trainable they are.
Larger dogs who need a great amount of mental and physical stimulation can thrive only in homes with an experienced and active owner.
Georgia
Like the majority of States, Georgia is all about Labs, German Shepherds, and Beagles. There are many other breeds there, including the very popular Bulldog.
Bulldog is so much loved in Georgia that this breed was even proposed as Georgia’s official state dog in 2016.
Are you familiar with Uga, the mascot of the University of Georgia? This should say enough about how much breed is loved within the Georgia borders.
Bulldogs may seem goofy, but they are fearless and vicious. Do not let their calm pace fool you, because they are fast to react.
Hawaii
The famous island is all about Frenchies coming first. This breed stole the heart of many Hawaiians.
This small size dog is suitable for novice owners who know what kind of responsibility comes with owning a dog.
Next to Frenchie, Hawaiians enjoy having Labrador Retrievers and then Rottweiler. Rottweilers should never be in hands of novice owners, as they are powerful, independent, and need an experienced dog owner to thrive.
If you feel like you need extra support training your Rottweiler think about hiring a professional dog trainer.
Idaho
Labradors are Idaho’s favorite. Next to Labs, Idaho is home to mostly German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers.
So far, it’s clear that Americans highly appreciate large-size breeds that are people-pleasers and great to train.
Idaho is a state of wonderful landscapes and great outdoors, which is why Border Collies are highly popular with each passing day.
Border Collies are mostly seen in the countryside, as they are a perfect fit as ranch dogs.
Illinois
Labradors, German Shepherds, and Goldens are the most popular dog breeds in Illinois.
Next to them, Illinois is home to many Frenchies and Rottweilers, who are followed by Siberian Huskies and Doberman Pinschers.
When it comes to getting any dog breed, it is crucial to get a dog from a responsible and reputable breeder.
Only responsible breeders will deliver dogs that are 100% healthy. This is especially important when it comes to owning breeds such as Siberian Huskies are – vet expenses tend to be higher for larger size dogs.
Indiana
When it comes to the most popular dog breed in Indiana, German Shepherds are absolute rulers.
Next to these adorable shedders, Indiana is proud to have a large number of Golden Retrievers.
Indiana is also a place of enormous adoption events which means that many breeds are easy to be found across the state.
Thanks to these adoptive events, it has been discovered that Hoosiers are, in fact, massive Pit Bull lovers.
Iowa
Hawkeyes really love Labrador Retrievers. Next to Labs, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers are among the top three most popular dog breeds in Iowa.
Not only Hawkeyes are dog owners in a high percentage, but they are happy to welcome strangers’ dogs as well.
Iowa is packed with many dog-friendly places that anyone can visit and enjoy with their canine.
Kansas
The people of Kansas have a special love for their Cairn terriers, but three first places go to Labs, German Shepherds, and Bulldogs.
Back in 2006, a bill was introduced into the state congress to make the Cairn Kansas’s official dog.
That same bill was tabled in 2012, but Cairn Terrier remains the state’s unofficial dog.
Kentucky
Kentucky’s official dog breed is Beagle. When you know this it does not seem as surprising that the Kentucky Humane Society calls its latest campaign “Beaglemania”.
Beagles may seem calm and gentle, but they are major working dogs. Specially bred to be hunting dogs these smaller size dogs are excellent when it comes to fox hunting.
They are loving and lovable, and should always be walked on a leash, or they will run toward the next interesting smell.
Louisiana
Louisiana is a home to lovely Catahoula leopard dog, the only dog breed that originated in Lousiana.
In fact, some records claim that this breed is an all-American breed, the first breed developed in North America.
Catahoula leopard dog is so much loved within Lousiana borders that it has been Louisiana’s state official state dog since 1979.
Maine
Maine is all about the dogs. This state is so dog-oriented that there is a Dog Kissing Contest.
The top three popular dog breeds in Maine are Labs, German Shepherds, and Goldens.
Although many dog breeds are loved over the state, the truth is that Maine is more of a ‘cat state’.
Its official state cat is the Maine Coon, a long-haired breed, known as America’s native.
Maine Coon is one of the largest cat breeds alive, with a string coat. They were carefully bred to survive the hostile New England winters, hence the longhaired coat.
Maryland
Maryland is also about the top three favorite American dog breeds: Labs, German Shepherds, and Goldens.
Yet, far from official papers, Marylanders are loyal to the Chesapeake Bay Retriever.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever is known for being a huge water lover and one of the best dog swimmers. They have strong webbed feet that help them excel at swimming.
Originally, they were bred to hunt and retrieve ducks. They are best fitted for families with outdoor-loving activities.
Massachusetts
Next to Labs, Goldens, and German Shepherds, Massachusetts is home to the lovely Boston Terrier.
Did you know that the Boston Terrier was officially the first purebred dog in the entire States? Or that this sturdy dog became Massachusetts’ official state dog in 1979?
Boston Terriers or Bostons, are smart, lively, active, and outgoing dogs who are known for their unique smiley face.
Michigan
According to AKC’s list, the top three breeds in Michigan are Labs, Goldens, and German Shepherds.
Michigan is one of the colder states so it shouldn’t be unusual that some long-coated breeds are among the top ten popular dog breeds, such as Siberian Husky.
Learn how to keep dogs’ paws safe during the winter – caring about dogs is also a lot about knowing how to keep them safe during different seasons.
Minnesota
Labs, Goldens, and German Shepherds are the top three dog breeds in Minnesota.
Next to these large dogs, Minnesotans are fan of Poodle and German Shorthaired Pointer.
If you are on the lookout for a breed that doesn’t shed, doesn’t smell, and is extremely smart then you should think about getting a Poodle.
Mississippi
Labradors, Beagles, and German Shepherds are the top three breeds in Mississippi.
Next to these breeds, Mississippians are huge fans of Newfoundland.
This grand breed is a big water lover and true softie who loves being around children.
They are also known as nanny dogs. Have you ever watched Petar Pan? Nanny the dog is Newfoundland.
Missouri
Missouri shares special love for water-loving Labrador Retriever, highly disciplined German Shepherd, and energetic Frenchies.
Missourians really love energetic dogs who love spending time outdoors.
This is why next to these three breeds, they have a special love for Australian cattle dogs and Cavalier King Charles spaniels.
Know that before you get any cattle dog, these dogs need a high amount of exercise or they will easily become bored. Bored dogs tend to become destructive.
Montana
Montana is another state that is all about Goldens, Labs, and powerful German Shepherds.
Since Montana is a state of amazing nature and great outdoors, it comes as no surprise that its citizens prefer active and friendly breeds.
Nebraska
According to AKC, Nebraska is home mostly to Goldens, Labs, and German Shepherds.
You cannot blame them for choosing classic breeds, they are the best thanks to their qualities.
All three breeds love to be active and feeding them, right is crucial.
Obesity in pets is on the rise across the States, and no dog owner wants his Fido to experience any joint or heart issues.
Nevada
Labrador Retriever is the number one breed in Nevada. Just like in most states, Labrador Retrievers are much appreciated due to their tender nature, love toward people, and calm temperament.
Next to Labs, Nevadans love Bulldogs and German Shepherds. Yes, no Goldens among these three popular breeds. They are probably among the top ten most popular dog breeds in Nevada.
New Hampshire
New Hampshire loves Labrador Retrievers.
Next to this ultra-friendly breed, New Hampshire is home to German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers.
These three breeds are most popular in New Hampshire, but the official state dog isn’t any of these three. The official state dog is the Chinook, a very rare breed of sled dog.
Elementary school students from Bedford, New Hampshire, campaigned for this sweet dog to represent their state.
New Jersey
The Garden State is another state where the top three breeds are Labs, German Shepherd, and Goldens.
Dog owners in New Jersey are proud to care for Yorkshire terriers, Poodles, Boxers, Rotties, Bulldogs, and Frenchie.
If you are thinking about getting a terrier know that these tiny dogs are usually passionate diggers. This is something that should be addressed during the training process.
New Mexico
New Mexico’s top three breeds are Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and the Bulldog.
These breeds are larger in size and require regular brushing to keep their top coat healthy and shiny.
To keep brushing sessions short and easy, use the right grooming tool. As expected, New Mexico has a state dog.
Although the top three breeds are larger size dogs, the official state dog is the small Chihuahua.
Do not let their size fool you, because Chihuahuas tend to have a fierce bite that might surprise you if you try to pick them up or handle them roughly.
New York
You may expect to see smaller size dogs all across the state of New York, and you won’t be wrong. New York adores Frenchies. This is a smaller size dog, and never a purse-sized puppy.
Frenchie loves to walk and explore the world. Next to Frenchies, other extremely popular breeds are Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and German Shepherd.
North Carolina
Have you heard of Plott Hound? This breed was originally bred to hunt boar, which is something that they do even today.
This is a rare breed, that can mostly be found within North Carolina’s borders.
The Plott Hound is the official state dog, while the three most popular dog breeds are Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and German Shepherd.
North Dakota
North Dakota hasn’t named an official dog… At least not yet. How to choose among the top three favorite breeds in this state?
When Labs, Goldens, and German Shepherds are already so popular, finding the fourth breed to adore will be challenging.
If you already have one of these three breeds at home and you want to introduce a cat into your home, learn more about the cat-dog relationship.
Ohio
Ohio’s favorite dog breeds are Labs, German Shepherds, and Goldens.
When you know the personality of these breeds can you really blame them for being so popular? The most popular dog names in Ohio are Buddy or Max.
If you need inspiration for dog name, check this ultimate guide on most popular dog names.
Oklahoma
Bulldogs are extremely popular in Oklahoma. They were originally bred for the sport of bullbaiting and at one point they almost became extinct.
If you love spending time on the beach, know that this breed can’t swim well so bear that in mind.
Next to Bulldogs, Oklahomans love Labradors and German Shepherds. In Oklahoma City, you are most likely to see an Australian cattle dog, Chihuahua, or a Pit Bull.
Here are the signs that you dog is displaying destructive behavior.
Oregon
Favorite dog breeds in Oregon are Labradors, German Shepherds, and Goldens.
These purebred dogs are great for movie owners and experienced dog owners.
Oregon also has a soft heart toward mixed breeds. This is why it is possible to see Labradoodle in high number in different Oregon cities.
Labradoodle is one of the most popular Poodle mixes.
Learn more about Poodle mixes and see if there is a breed that could fit your home perfectly.
Pennsylvania
The state dog of Pennsylvania is Great Dane, ever since 1965. This is a giant breed that can grow up to three feet.
Great Dane needs a lot of space, so make sure that your living area can support this breed’s needs.
Next to Great Dane, Pennsylvania’s most popular dog breeds are Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers.
Know that when standing on all four Great Dane can tower over Labs, Shepherds, and Goldens.
Rhode Island
According to AKC, Rhode Island’s favorite dog breeds are Labradors, German Shepherds, and Goldens.
Now, you may think – why are these dogs so popular? Know that they are equally popular in the other corners of the world.
People just love their features, responsiveness, willingness to please, and ability to respond to commands.
In hands of experienced dog owners, these breeds will easily compete and outshine any other breed in a dog show or dog sports such as agility.
South Carolina
Another state where the top three places are taken by Labradors, German Shepherds, and Goldens. They may be popular, but South Carolina has a unique dog that puts so much pride in its citizens.
The state dog of South Carolina is the Boykin Spaniel, which was bred to work with hunters all day long.
If you are thinking about getting Boykin Spaniel and you prefer indoor time, think twice, because this dog is specifically recommended for active families or active individuals.
South Dakota
Rural areas of South Dakota are usually homes to active Border Collies. This breed is on the rise when it comes to ranch areas.
Otherwise, South Dakota’s most popular and loving dog breeds are Labradors, German Shepherds, and Goldens. Can you really blame them?!
If you are not sure which breed is for you, use this compare dog breeds tool to get the right knowledge and make a fast decision.
Tennessee
Next to Labradors and German Shepherds, Tennessee has a soft place for Beagles. This breed of floppy ears is on the rise.
In fact, they are so popular in Tennessee that it is just a matter of time when this breed will completely outshine the German Shepherd who is currently the second most popular breed.
Texas
The official state dog of Texas is the Blue Lacy. This breed was developed in the mid-19th century and in 2005 it got the recognition that it deserves.
Next to Blue Lacy, the most popular dog breeds in Texas are Labradors, German Shepherds, and Bulldogs. Here are the most popular German Shepherd mixes.
Utah
When it comes to the most popular dog breed in Utah, Utah aligns with others.
In other words, Utah’s most popular dog breeds are Labs, Goldens, and German Shepherds.
Not sure if you are more of a large-size dog or a small-size dog person? Learn what makes large-size dogs great and if they are really superior or not.
When it comes to choosing a dog, always go for the breed that matches your lifestyle.
If you love active dogs that are family-oriented Labs and Goldens are a great option.
Vermont
Vermont loves Beagles. Ok, they love Goldens and Labs as well. Did you know that Vermont is in fact the number one state for cat lovers?
Cats and dogs do get along, but it all depends on when you make the first introduction.
Another crucial factor to think about is whether your dog is a cat-lover or not. And vice versa.
Virginia
The American Foxhound is the official state dog of Virginia since 1966. Historical records claim that none other than George Washington himself was responsible for this breed’s development.
The American Foxhound is one of the rarest breeds on American ground. They are known for being major children lovers and being friendly even toward strangers.
Next to this all-American breed, Virginia’s top popular breeds are Labs, Beagles, and German Shepherds.
Washington
According to AKC, Washington’s most popular dog breeds are Labradors, German Shepherds, and Goldens.
These breeds are much loved and appreciated across the States, which is why seeing them everywhere isn’t unusual.
Next to these top three breeds, Siberian Huskies are also very popular and loved. The Siberian Husky is so loved that back in 2004 serious efforts were made to make Siberian Husky the official state dog.
West Virginia
When it comes to the most popular dog breeds, West Virginia allignes with others perfectly. That being said, the top three popular dog breeds are Labs, Goldens, and German Shepherds.
When it comes to dog ownership Virginia is all about the dogs. In fact, Virginia is one of the five states with the highest percentage of dog owners, per capita.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin loves American popular dog breeds, Labs, Goldens, and German Shepherds.
Yet, Wisconsin deeply adores the American Water Spaniel. This breed is also the official state dog Not only that the American Water Spaniel is the official dog of the state, but is also the only dog breed native to Wisconsin.
This famous all-American breed was bred to be an all-around hunter, which is something that they even do today.
Wyoming
According to AKC, the top three popular dog breeds in Wyoming are Labs, Goldens, and German Shepherds.
Just like Idaho, dog lovers in Wyoming are making a big turn toward the Border Collie trend.
These dogs are perfect workers, and nothing excites them like when there is a job to be done, especially if that job includes a lot of running, such as herding.
