National Dog Day: Tech And Startups Helping Us Care For Canines
National Dog Day: Want to find your new best friend? A guide to canine companionship
National Dog Day is celebrated every year on August 26, and it’s a great opportunity to think about whether you should adopt a dog. But how do you choose the right one? Experts say it varies, but here are the top dog breeds for 2024.
Rover.com, a website for pet care, teamed up with Ancestry to discover the most popular dog breeds in the U.S. and their typical personalities. This is the sixth time they’ve done this survey.
Dogs are beloved companions throughout our lives, and it’s no surprise that about 65.1 million Americans have a dog, making them the most popular pet in the country, according to Forbes.
“Anyone who’s had a dog knows the joy of coming home to a wagging tail,” said Phil Tedeschi, a professor at the University of Denver who studies the bond between humans and animals.
In July 2024, Rover surveyed 1,000 U.S. dog owners to learn more about which breeds are popular and what their personalities are like.
So, what are the most popular dog breeds in America?
According to Rover, the eight most popular dog breeds are:
- Mixed breeds
- Labrador Retrievers
- Goldendoodles
- Golden Retrievers
- German Shepherds
- Chihuahuas
- French Bulldogs
- Dachshunds
Personality vs. breed
About 88% of dog owners surveyed said that knowing their dog’s breed mix helps them understand their pet better. Another 56% said that knowing more about their dog’s genetics strengthens their bond.
While a dog’s breed is important when deciding if they fit into your lifestyle, it’s also crucial to understand their individual personality, says Tedeschi, who is also a panelist for Rover’s Pet People.
A dog’s breed can give you some hints about what they might like, but it doesn’t tell you everything.
Get to know your dog
It’s important to focus on getting to know your dog’s unique personality rather than just relying on breed stereotypes.
While dog breeds do have certain traits, every dog is different and has its own needs.
Tedeschi also mentioned that people often build strong bonds with their dogs during relaxed, quality time together.
Building a relationship with a pet, whether it’s a dog or a cat, involves connecting with an animal that responds to your emotions and makes you feel understood.
“This connection, along with the support and joy dogs bring, really highlights what makes a healthy relationship,” Tedeschi said. “Many people realized this during the pandemic when they felt isolated and found comfort in their pets.”
