Americans’ Favorite Dog Breeds: A State-by-state Look
More Akita lovers can be found in Missouri, where the breed might take pleasure in the state’s annual 20-inch snowfall average during the winter months. According to the American Kennel Club, the Akita has webbed toes to make walking on snow by easier (by distributing their weight more effectively). Their front dewclaws act as mini ice picks, just in case they need to climb out of icy water.
The Belgian Malinois may be a dog breed you haven’t heard of, but that’s not the case in Montana, where it’s the firm favorite. Confident, intelligent and hard-working, this breed thrives when it gets plenty of exercise and time with its owner. If you love to run, bike or hike (in Montana or elsewhere), the Malinois is your ideal companion.
Nebraskans prefer a compact house dog to any other type, as evidenced by their love for the Pembroke Welsh corgi. This breed may be small, but it’s strong! It’s also fearless and vigilant, which makes it a great watchdog.
The Shetland sheepdog, affectionately known as a “Sheltie,” is the top-ranking dog in Nevada. It certainly has plenty going for it, including agility and excellent herding abilities. According to the American Kennel Club, the Sheltie is smart and easy to train, which explains why it’s often used as a medical alert dog, service dog or therapy dog.
Like their neighbors in Massachusetts, New Hampshire dog owners love golden retrievers. As with all breeds, it’s a good idea to socialize and train a golden pup early. By introducing a young dog to a wide range of people, places and situations between the ages of seven weeks and four months, you give it the best chance of becoming a well-adjusted, well-mannered adult, says the American Kennel Club.
The tiny Maltese (it weighs less than seven pounds) is top of the list for dog owners in New Jersey. It makes a great family pet, as it’s an alert watchdog that’s always willing to impress on the agility course. It is also a relatively low shedder. To get the best from a Maltese, the American Kennel Club recommends consistent, rewards-based training.
Along with all the New Mexicans who adore the shih tzu, celebrity fans of the breed include Nicole Richie, Mariah Carey, Beyoncé, Colin Farell, Bill Gates and even Queen Elizabeth II, per the American Kennel Club. It’s no surprise, considering how loving — and lovable — this little dog is. Life with a shih tzu is guaranteed to be full of fun.
The super-cute Havanese is tough to resist – just ask New Yorkers! Their top-ranking breed, the national dog and only native breed of Cuba is sweet and playful, with a spring in its step. With moderate exercise needs, either indoors or out, the Havanese is perfect for those Big Apple city dwellers.
The American Kennel Club ranks the shih tzu as the 20th most popular dog breed in the U.S., but it’s No. 1 in North Carolina. As with all breeds, grooming is important. While many shih tzu owners keep their dog’s hair long, the breed looks just as cute with a short style.
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