America's Most Popular Dog Breeds

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60. Bull Terriers
> 2016 rank: 57
> 2007 rank: 58

Although bull terriers were originally bred for the cruel sport of bull-baiting, they are now regarded as lovable and entertaining companions. They have distinctive egg-shaped heads and piercing eyes. General George S. Patton, who was known for his fierceness as a fighter, had a bull terrier. The bull terrier was also the mascot for the Target store chain.

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59. Alaskan Malamutes
> 2016 rank: 59
> 2007 rank: 56

The Alaskan malamute, the official dog of the nation’s largest state, is named after the Mahlemut people of Alaska, a native Inuit tribe whose remoteness helped preserve the purity of this ancient dog breed. Malamutes are true working dogs and have been used to pull sleds, hunt seals, and protect people from bears. They are also friendly, loyal, and make great pets.

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58. Scottish Terriers
> 2016 rank: 58
> 2007 rank: 45

The Scottie, steadfast and loyal, is thought to be the oldest of the Highland terriers, and may be the oldest dog indigenous to Britain. Although it’s in the bottom half of our list, it has been incredibly popular with famous people. Owners of Scotties have included Humphrey Bogart, Charles Lindbergh, Franklin Roosevelt and Shirley Temple.

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57. Samoyeds
> 2016 rank: 65
> 2007 rank: 73

The Samoyed originated in Siberia, where it was used to hunt and herd reindeer, as a watchdog, and to pull sleds. Its thick white coat provides protection against the harshest conditions. Roald Amundsen, the first man to reach the South Pole, relied on samoyeds to get him there.

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56. Australian Cattle Dogs
> 2016 rank: 54
> 2007 rank: 64

The Australian cattle dog is known for its agility. Bred to herd animals many times its size, it is not easily intimidated. The animal needs a lot of exercise – more than a daily walk – and mental stimulation. If not given enough to do it will not be happy.

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55. Airedale Terriers
> 2016 rank: 55
> 2007 rank: 55

The Airedale is known as “The King of Terriers” because of its versatility. It is the largest of all terrier breeds, with males standing 23 inches at the shoulder, and the animal excels as a hunter, herder, guardian, athlete and family dog.

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54. Portuguese Water Dogs
> 2016 rank: 51
> 2007 rank: 65

Described as medium sized and robust by the AKC, this breed has an advantage above the other water-loving pups — a waterproof coat. Easily the most well-known of the breed is former “first dog” Bo, who belongs to President Obama and his family. Malia, President Obama’s daughter, is allergic to dogs, which led to Bo’s “appointment.”

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53. Papillons
> 2016 rank: 53
> 2007 rank: 36

This toy dog is named for the shape of its ears — “papillon” is French for butterfly. It was developed during the Renaissance by crossing other toy breeds with spaniels. It became popular with royalty and was featured in portraits by Rembrandt, Rubens and other famous artists. A papillion owned by Marie Antoinette waited outside the prison for the doomed queen.

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52. English Cocker Spaniels
> 2016 rank: 56
> 2007 rank: 69

The English cocker spaniel is a compact dog with a silk coat that comes in striking colors and patterns. It is famous for its mellow personality and its ability to flush out and retrieve gamebirds. The English cocker spaniel is larger than its cousin, the U.S. cocker spaniel.

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51. Bullmastiffs
> 2016 rank: 48
> 2007 rank: 40

As the name suggests, the bullmastiff is the result of bulldog and mastiff crosses. It was bred to guard country estates and game preserves from poachers. It is large, tipping the scale at up to 130 pounds, and is powerful and intimidating. The bullmastiff requires careful training.