Americans’ Favorite Dog Breeds: A State-by-state Look
Alabamans can’t get enough of the shih tzu, an affectionate, lively breed with a long history. According to the American Kennel Club, their “under the table” ancestors existed in China as early as 1,000 B.C. They were probably sent to Chinese royalty from neighboring Tibet – what an adorable gift!
If you’re looking for a large, substantial dog, you can’t go wrong with a bloodhound. Just ask Alaskans – it’s their most searched-for breed. Standing 23 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weighing up to 110 pounds, it’s strong and powerful. But it’s also incredibly friendly and sweet, making it a good family pet.
The shih tzu is also hugely popular in Arizona, where they may or may not be referred to as “chrysanthemum-faced dogs.” This is because the hair on their faces grows in every possible direction. If you own a shih tzu, it’s important to keep the hair on its snout clipped short to keep it out of your pup’s eyes.
The eternally laid-back, charming basset hound is an agreeable addition to many Arkansas homes. It enjoys nothing more than following a scent; according to the American Kennel Club, only the bloodhound has a more meticulous nose. However, this isn’t a particularly active breed and will enjoy lounging on the sofa for long periods.
French bulldogs (“Frenchies”) are irresistible to Californians, and who can blame them? This breed is playful, easygoing and protective. Despite its name, it’s not actually from France. According to American Kennel Club, it comes from Nottingham, a city in England, where it was a companion to lace makers. But when the Industrial Revolution took hold in England, many lace makers relocated to France and took their dogs with them.
Ranking third on the American Kennel Club list of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S., the golden retriever is a friendly, faithful companion to many. In Colorado, this sturdy gun dog is top of the list. On Feb. 3, 2019 – International Golden Retriever Day – more than 100 goldens and their owners gathered to celebrate in the town of Golden, which is west of Denver, Colorado’s biggest city.
The Siberian husky didn’t make the top 10 of 2018’s top dog breeds, but it can enjoy the top spot in Connecticut. One of the most active dog breeds, it’s known for its striking appearance (those eyes are mesmerizing) and its strong work ethic. According to the American Kennel Club, the husky was developed as a working sled dog over thousands of years by the Chukchi people, who lived in the Siberian peninsula of northeast Asia.
Floridians love their Maltese dogs, and the state has several clubs dedicated to the feisty little cutie. An affectionate lap dog that originated in Malta, this breed is known for its floor-sweeping coat. The breed standard for the Maltese is “a toy dog covered from head to foot with a mantle of long, silky, white hair.”
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