It is time for dog lovers to get their noses up, as this article will list down the top 10 dog breeds for the present year. While there are going to be some usual culprits in this series, it will also consist of some new and surprising picks. So, without further ado, let us get straight down to the crux of the matter. Here are the most popular dog breeds for 2021.
Contents
Labrador Retrievers
The Labs will take the top spot in most such lists, and for good reason. Not only are they friendly and active, but they also boast a tremendous amount of versatility. Be it hunting, dock diving, tracking, or obedience, the Labrador Retrievers are the very personification of flexibility. Undoubtedly, then, these pups belong to the American culture as much as baseball and hotdogs do.
German Shepherds
While all dog breeds are known for their loyalty, German Shepherds probably take the prize. In addition to their loyalty, their strength and protective nature make them the perfect choice for service dogs or police watchdogs. Although the German Shepherds are a bit aloof and do not make friends easily, once they do, they will move heavens and earth to protect their owners.
Golden Retrievers
One of the most even-tempered, friendly, and affectionate breeds, the Golden Retrievers get along with strangers and other pets. While they are playful and mischievous, they are also very intelligent and extremely careful with children. Oh, and not to mention the fact that this breed is the movie star of the group, having starred in movies like Air Bud, Full House, and Homeward Bound.
Beagles
Beagles are common in both small and medium homes. While its appearance might make it seem like a foxhound, the tiny legs indicate that the Beagle is a small-sized dog. Beagles are known for their amazingly sharp sense of smell and hence are used for the detection of prohibited imports and exports. Thanks to their small legs, Beagles can effectively track hares, rabbits, and other small games.
Dachshunds
Do not let the Dachshunds’ slim bodies and small legs fool you – it is one of the most active and powerful breeds you will ever come across. Belonging to the hound family, the Dachshund serves brilliantly as a guard dog and on hunting expeditions. Thanks to their amiable nature, these dogs can be easily trained, while the small size makes them a suitable choice for people residing in small-scale residential areas.
Shih Tzu
Their cute appearance and small size have earned these dogs the nickname of ‘Toy Dogs’. If you are looking for a companion, you will be hard-pressed to find a better breed than the Shih Tzu. Not only are they happy, affectionate, and outgoing, but their favorite hobby is to simply follow their owner from room to room. It comes as little surprise, that since ancient times, these dogs have made friends with people from all walks of life, from peasants to emperors.
Poodle
The times when the Poodle was considered to be the breed of the rich are, thankfully, long gone. Since they are highly smart and understanding, Poodles can be trained without much difficulty. Additionally, they are considered to be one of the prettiest and most loyal dog breeds. Their small size makes them a good option for people living in apartments.
French Bulldogs
With their large ears and small bodies, the French Bulldogs do not require much exercise or movement to thrive. This breed is particularly popular amongst city-dwellers, including those residing in New York, Miami, and San Francisco. The French Bulldog’s playfulness, alertness, and adaptability make it an appealing choice for dog enthusiasts.
Rottweilers
The composed, courageous, and confident nature of the Rottweiler has earned it the distinction of being a protective guardian breed. Much like German Shepherds, this breed has a wait-and-see attitude towards making new friends, but, once it warms up to you, you will find that the Rottweiler has an immensely affectionate and friendly side to it as well.
German Shorthead Pointers
The ‘GSP’ is highly intelligent and has a strong sense of smell, which is why it is often used as a field dog and for hunting purposes. Amiable and willing, the GSP is highly enthusiastic in everything it does, while at the same being able to remain calm and composed. One thing it hates, though, is being left alone and is very much prone to developing separation anxiety.
Factors to Consider Before Buying A Dog
If you did not already own a pet dog, we are sure that the above list convinced you to get one. However, before you decide to bring your new friend home, you should consider the following factors to make the perfect decision:
Your reason for getting a dog
Make sure that you are not buying a dog solely out of impulse or consolation, or as a holiday present. Getting a dog should be the true desire of the heart and the decision should not only be driven by your current needs, as circumstances can change very quickly.
Budget
Remember that buying a dog is not the only money you will be spending on your buddy. In fact, the real spending begins once you bring the dog home.
Ask yourself if you are prepared to give your pet everything they might need, including good food, regular vet visits, medications, toys, and brushes.
Will you have the time to play with them?
Of course, there will be times when you and your dog will be on a roll, but will that always be the case? Will you be able to give them the attention and affection they need, even when you are overwhelmed with your work or academic burdens?
Conclusion
To conclude, we hope that the popular dog choices and the factors to consider before buying a dog discussed in this article helped you learn more about a man’s best friend and will help you come to the right decision should you decide to get a pup.
