The Most Beloved Dog Breeds In United States, By State (The Country’s Favorite Pups)
Certain dog breeds consistently dominate popularity lists. In the U.S., Labrador Retrievers have held the top spot in registrations for years, according to the American Kennel Club. But Joybird took a different route—analyzing internet search trends rather than registration data to uncover the most-searched breeds in each state. While you might expect Californians to lean toward Chihuahuas or Alaskans to favor Huskies, the reality is quite different. Keep reading to find out which dogs are truly capturing attention across the nation.
Nevada Praises The Intelligent Sheltie
Nevada's favorite dog breed is the Shetland Sheepdog, affectionately known as Shelties. Their fluffy coats give them the appearance of medium-sized dogs, but they’re actually quite light, weighing between 15 and 25 pounds—making them agile and quick. Though not as high-energy as their Collie cousins, Shelties still require a moderate amount of exercise.
Perfect for owners seeking a playful companion without the demands of marathon training, Shelties tend to be alert barkers and cautious around strangers, making them reliable watchdogs. At the same time, they’re gentle and affectionate with their families.
Washington Also Appreciates The Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are beloved not only in Connecticut but also across Washington. Originally bred as sled dogs, they adapt well to various climates, though they likely thrive best in snowy northern winters.
With the right exercise and a caring family, Huskies can live beyond 14 years. Standing just under two feet tall, they boast a lean, muscular frame and usually weigh between 35 and 60 pounds.
Delaware's Top Dog Is The Loyal Akita
Delaware locals show a special interest in Akitas, and it's easy to see why. With their dense coats and athletic builds, these dogs are both powerful and affectionate with their families. Despite their often cheerful expressions, Akitas are fiercely territorial.
They can be playful and silly around family and friends but stay wary of strangers, always prepared to defend their loved ones. While their strong guarding instincts may make them stubborn at times, Akitas thrive on close human bonds. However, they typically don’t mix well with other household pets.
Utahns Opt For Proud Poodles
The Poodle is one of the most well-known and popular dog breeds. These proud dogs often seem to carry a sense of elegance due to their impressive qualities.
Poodles are athletic yet graceful, enthusiastic yet confident, and both smart and loyal. They come in different sizes and colors, and their coat is hypoallergenic. These great traits have also made Poodles a common choice for crossbreeding.
Illinois Is Also A Big Fan Of Rottweilers
Illinois, like Pennsylvania, counts Rottweilers as its most popular dog breed. Known as gentle giants, Rottweilers usually display a calm and loving nature, reserving their fierceness only when necessary. Their temperament often mirrors the care and training they receive from their owners.
This breed's loyalty and trainability make them excellent companions. A great example is Wynd, a Rottweiler honored with the Award for Canine Excellence in Therapy—proving that even Rottweilers can excel as therapy dogs.
New Jerseyans Love The Elegant Maltese
New Jersey's most popular dog might be easily confused with New York’s favorite, given how similar the Maltese and Havanese are—these two breeds are actually related, much like the two states themselves! With their luxurious coats, Maltese dogs radiate elegance and grace.
But don’t let their sophisticated looks fool you—they’re far from lazy. Weighing only around 7 pounds, the Maltese is lively and surprisingly agile. Fortunately, they don’t need rigorous workouts; a small, fenced yard provides plenty of space for these spirited little companions.
Tennesseans Love Their Quirky Yorkies
Yorkshire terriers lead the pack in Tennessee. Their long, silky fur can almost be mistaken for human hair and is known to be allergy-friendly. These charming little dogs have a royal appearance but carry the true toughness of a terrier underneath.
With a background as both Victorian lapdogs and hardworking mill dogs, Yorkies boast a wonderfully versatile nature. This blend creates a noble yet spirited companion who's always ready to protect their owner while providing plenty of entertainment.
Texans Also Love Themselves A French Bulldog
California and Texas share a common favorite: the French bulldog, which ranks at the top of both states' lists. This compact yet sturdy breed fits seamlessly into either lifestyle thanks to its adaptability.
Frenchies have also won over many celebrities, including Martha Stewart, Hilary Duff, and Hugh Jackman. For Texans who lean toward glam rather than country style, these dogs make an ideal choice—they behave like lapdogs but without the overly delicate look.
Californians Love Their Frenchies
You might assume, thanks to Beverly Hills stereotypes, that Californians are all about their tiny purse Chihuahuas. However, French bulldogs actually claim the top spot in the state.
These Frenchies are a neighbor's dream—they rarely bark, require minimal exercise, get along well with other pets, and hardly shed at all.
North Carolinians Also Love The Shih Tzu
No worries, North Carolinians—we haven't left you out. While we previously mentioned that South Carolina prefers Boxers, up in North Carolina, the favorite aligns more with Alabama and Arizona: the Shih Tzu.
These tiny pups boast one of the longest lifespans on this list, often living up to 18 years! When choosing between similar breeds, factors like longevity can definitely be the deciding factor.
Oregonians Agree With The Queen On Corgis
Queen Elizabeth II was renowned for having owned many Pembroke Welsh corgis throughout her life. Oregon, a state that shares her fondness for the breed, also ranks corgis as its top choice. With their sturdy bodies and short legs, corgis are irresistibly cute.
These 30-pound dogs are surprisingly quick and agile, making them excellent companions for exploring Oregon's picturesque trails. Their waterproof coats are an added bonus, perfect for the state's wet and rainy seasons.
Hawaii Islanders Are All About The Pom
Pomeranians may be small in size, but their large personalities make them a favorite among residents of Hawaii. Originally descended from larger sled dogs, Poms are perfectly suited for warmer climates due to their petite size. Their athletic roots also give them a fun-loving energy.
These lively companions can wear themselves out with indoor play, making them great pets for city living. Pomeranians are also highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train. Whether they're playing with their owner or taking a cozy break, their charm and enthusiasm make them a popular choice, not just in Hawaii, but worldwide.
New Yorkers Adore The Social Havanese
When we picture New York, we envision thick coats and even bigger personalities. The Havanese fits this image perfectly, which is why they're the state's most popular dog. These lovable dogs are incredibly social, making them an ideal choice for city residents.
One of their greatest advantages is their impressive lifespan of up to 16 years! Havanese are also highly adaptable, trainable, and require only a moderate amount of exercise. However, they can become lonely quickly, so they're best suited for those who work from home.
Pennsylvanians Are Suckers For Rotties
Only a Pennsylvanian could set the record straight about Rottweilers. While these dogs might seem intimidating at first, their territorial instincts are often mistaken for aggression. In reality, behind closed doors, they're as gentle as teddy bears.
The secret is proper training and early socialization. With the right guidance, a Rottweiler can grow into a calm, balanced dog, perfectly suited to life in both the city and the countryside of Pennsylvania. Weighing up to 135 pounds, Rottweilers are versatile: they can be strong workers or affectionate playmates, depending on what their family needs.
Alaskans Opt For Bloodhounds
If you're like us, you may have assumed that Alaskans would opt for a sled dog like the Malamute or Siberian Husky. As it turns out, they spend more time looking up bloodhounds than any other breed. After all, who could resist that droopy face?
Bloodhounds are famous search dogs, so be prepared for a stubborn pet when it comes to scent. Otherwise, these canines are easygoing housedogs who will love the whole family. Their powerful build needs to get exercised regularly, so letting these sniffers out into the wider terrain of Alaska would be their paradise.
Colorado Loves To Celebrate Their Goldens
The success of the Air Bud franchise is a testament to America's lasting love of Golden retrievers. One state that loves them above other breeds is Colorado.
The athletic breed weighs an average of 65 pounds and is highly intelligent. Coloradans will be happy to hear that Goldens love the great outdoors and are talented swimmers.
Louisiana Has A Heart For Saint Bernards
Louisiana's dog of choice is a big ol' Saint Bernard. There's something soulful about this sturdy hunk of fur, which tops out at 180 pounds! The family dog has been featured in movies for decades, making the world well-aware of its gentle nature.
One of the great things about Saint Bernards is that they only require a moderate amount of exercise, not more than many of the smaller breeds on this list. At the same time, they have the strength to accompany you on hikes or pull a cart for you when desired.
Arizonans Are Big On Shih Tzus
Shih Tzus are all about attention, so they'd be pleased to know that they top Arizona's list of dog breeds. They aren't your average canine in that they don't live to chase things down or dig. Shih Tzus just want to look cute while you stroke their wild fur.
Speaking of their coat, it's untamed by nature so be prepared to groom your Shih Tzu often. At the very least, the fur at their snout needs to be kept short so it doesn't get into their eyes. Otherwise, these affectionate little dogs just require a couple of short walks a day.
Maine Adores The Low-Energy Pug
Maine's top dog choice is a pug, the perfect lapdog. These low-energy dogs are easy to recognize by their wideset eyes and round faces. Though their body is stout like a bulldog, they have almost humorously long legs, which is the only lean thing about them.
Owners looking for something round to be their number one couch potato companion will love pugs. The little furballs weigh less than 20 pounds, but they do need moderate exercise to ward off obesity. These dogs live for one thing, and that's to love and be loved.
Connecticut Is A Big Fan Of The Siberian Husky
Though Connecticut isn't exactly known for its snow, that's not a prerequisite for the Siberian Husky, many of whom have long retired from their sledding days. What is required is a whole lot of exercise, so owners with large yards or who enjoy the great outdoors are an ideal fit.
Siberians are especially happy when they're working alongside their owner. So long as their exercise needs are met, these canines can thrive just about anywhere as they are highly adaptable. They are highly friendly with both people and other animals, so the one job they aren't great at is being a watchdog.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Tops North Dakota's List
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel's have a regal name to match their graceful looks and demeanor. Called Cavs for short, these adorable pups are the most sought after in North Dakota. They weigh less than 20 pounds and have a life expectancy of up to 15 years.
Cavs are an excellent choice for households that want both a couch potato dog and one that will look forward to getting out and exercising. Though they have a calm demeanor, the canine is also up for dog sports and nice walks. Cavs are also gentle with everyone and love affection.
South Dakota's Dog Of Choice Is The Boston Terrier
Both Dakotas seem to have a flair for small yet regal canines. Where North Dakota prefers the graceful Cav, South Dakota is all about the Boston Terrier, which is nicknamed "The American Gentlemen." The name is in part due to the Boston's tuxedo coat, but also because of their proper disposition.
These canines top the scale in terms of being eager to please, and they are very sensitive. A gentle demand is enough to get a Boston's attention and they love being around people.
Arkansans Love The Charming Basset Hound
Residents in Arkansas are most interested in the Basset Hound, a droopy-faced charmer with an incredible sense of smell. These canines only stand at 15 inches tall, but they weigh up to 65 pounds, a testament to their girth. Their short and muscular build gives Bassets excellent endurance, but they aren't the speediest.
Owners love the canine's easygoing temperament. They aren't the most affectionate of dogs, but the Basset is a loyal member of the family.
Marylanders Appreciate The Bichon's Big Personality
Marylanders love the Bichon Frise for its big personality and bigger fur, which is also hypoallergenic. When their coat is grown out, these pooches look like they could be plush toys. Their looks match their disposition, which is one of friendliness around fellow dogs and all humans.
Bichon's stand at less than a foot tall and weigh less than 20 pounds, making them well-suited for smaller homes. They don't need much exercise and have long periods of calm broken up by arbitrary spurts of energy. These adorable sprinters also have a life expectancy of up to 15 years.
Rhode Islanders Adore The Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog, or Portie for short, is a favorite among Rhode Islanders. These shaggy dogs stand at around 20 inches and weigh between 35 and 60 pounds, making them a happy medium in terms of size. Their name comes from a history of working alongside fishermen, so Porties are skillful swimmers.
Their hardworking history also means that Porties are easy to train and live to please their owner. It also means that these furry friends need a ton of exercise, preferably through a variety of activities.
Minnesotans Spring For The English Springer Spaniel
At the top of the dog breed list in Minnesota is the English Springer Spaniel. These sweet-looking canines have a history of working alongside hunters, so they crave companionship. Springers are also nice to fellow pets and family members of all ages.
These canines do best with active owners as they love to run and swim. Though Springers aren't the most active breed out there, they do need a fair amount of exercise. A well-worked Springer will be a happy indoor dog, even in an apartment.
South Carolinians Are All About Boxers
South Carolinians adore the fun-loving Boxer above other dog breeds, and they aren't the only ones. Those looking for a tall canine that won't outweigh them may want to consider a Boxer.
The breed typically stands about two-feet-tall and maxes out at 80 pounds. They are equal parts family dog and worker dog, being playful, affectionate, patient, and protective. Boxers are also considered bouncy dogs that aren't always tolerant of other canines, so be prepared to keep them on a tight leash.
Montanans' Dog Of Choice Is The Belgian Malinois
Belgian Malinois are similar-looking to German Shepherds, and they're just as hardworking. It's no wonder Montanans love this smart and loyal breed. Mals rely heavily on company and exercise, so working in the open fields of Montana would make this breed feel right at home.
These dogs will become unhappy if left alone too often and underworked. That's why it's imperative to spend as much time exercising with them as possible. Runners or bicyclists who are looking for a workout partner need to look no further than their Mal.
The Bernese Mountain Dog Is A Hit In Vermont
Vermonters are big fans of the Bernese Mountain Dog, a sturdy and calm bundle of joy. These large dogs weigh between 70 and 115 pounds. They have a silky, tricolored coat that owners will love snuggling up to, especially since these canines are affectionate.
Berners reserved their heart for family, particularly their master, so they can be a little distant with strangers. The sweet dog lives to make their owner happy and adores company, so it won't take well to being left alone too long. Berners are built for cold weather, so they're suited to brace the snowy winters of Vermont.
West Virginians Appreciate The Loyal German Shepherd
German Shepherd's hardworking and loving character has made them among the most popular breeds in the states, specifically in West Virginia. These intelligent canines can learn many tasks and have noteworthy courage that makes them excellent guard dogs.
Though German Shepherds are reluctant towards strangers, they are affectionate with family. The sweet dogs also have a gentleness that makes them easy to trust around small children. German Shepherds are athletic and need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Whatever activities the family loves, these companions will be game.
Alabamans Also Adore Shih Tzus
Arizona wasn't the only state to have Shih Tzus at the top of their list. Alabamans were also found to adore the breed above all others. As we mentioned previously, Shih Tzus have fur that grows in all directions, so keeping it short is one way to keep strands out of their eyes.
On the flip side, some owners enjoy growing their Shih Tzu's fur out long, like the ones pictured here. Though longer fur will require more brushing and can get dirty easier, it does weigh itself down so that the strands become straighter and tamer.
Floridians Are Also Suckers For The Maltese
Alongside New Jersey, Florida also pegs the Maltese to be their dog breed of choice. These cute little dogs may look like Shih Tzus at first glance, but if you look a little closer you'll notice that their nose is slightly larger.
Maltese also have a coat that tends to be straighter than that of the Shih Tzu, or at least doesn't go in quite as many directions. Floridians love this cute little dog so much that they even have clubs for them!
Iowa Agrees With Colorado On Golden Retrievers
Golden retrievers are so adorable and fun-loving that it only seems logical they'd be favored by more than one state. In addition to Colorado, Iowa also finds these fur buddies to be the top of the line when it comes to dog breeds.
The friendly workers are used today for numerous jobs, from hunting search-and-rescue to guiding the blind. Though Goldens can become masterful helpers, they maintain an innocent joy that makes them seem like grown-up puppies even into their later years.
Bloodhounds Are Also At The Top Of Kentucky's List
In addition to Alaskans, Kentuckians also fancy Bloodhounds. The breed's impeccable sense of smell is unmatched, which can come in handy when living in wide-open spaces and rural areas.
One thing to look out for with this breed is infection. Between its large, droopy ears and all those wrinkles, bacteria can easily get trapped and go unnoticed until it's too late. That's why it's wise to check their skin as often as possible and be aware of signs of infection.
Missouri Also Adores the Akita
Considering that the Akita is essentially an athletic teddy bear, we feel like every state has this irresistible breed near the top of their list. In addition to Delaware, Missouri also had this furry friend as number one on their dog wishlist.
One thing that might explain why Missourians love this breed, in particular, is its ability to handle the state's snowy winters. In addition to its dense coat, Akitas also have webbed feet to make it easier to walk in the snow.
Oklahoma Agrees With Arkansas On Basset Hounds
Like Arkansas, Oklahoma rates Basset Hounds number one when it comes to dog breeds. This isn't that much of a surprise considering that they partake in AKC's Basset Hound Field Trials, which have been around since 1937.
The event tests this breed's hunting ability by having Basset Hounds chase after hares, but they don't let them catch the animals, of course. The events happen all over the country, and Oklahoma is one of the proud states to host.
Wisconsin Is Also A Fan Of The Bichon Frise
Maryland isn't the only state that ranks Bichon Frise number one. Wisconsin was also found to be more interested in this breed than others. Bichons have an adorable stout and beady eyes that resemble many of the other small breeds on this list.
In fact, we would bet that if you have a white Maltese a perm, it would be hard to tell the two apart. Still, pet owners will tell you that even the most subtle differences go a long way when picking the right breed.
New Hampshire Is Another Golden Retriever Lover
Some may not agree with the fact that Labrador retrievers have yet to be listed, and yet this is the third state Goldens have claimed.
Still, Colorado, Iowa, and New Hampshire can't get enough of the shaggier Goldens. They are incredibly beautiful yet hardworking animals, and there's something to be said about their seemingly eternal youth.
