according to AKC.org

1. French Bulldog. Over the last 10 years, this sweet pup has made its way from the 14th spot to #1. Playful, smart, and adaptable, this small breed dog is a great choice for families of all types and sizes. Due to its size, it is the perfect option for those who live in small homes or apartments. The Frenchie has a life expectancy is 10-13 years.

2. Labrador Retriever. Held the #1 spot for over 30 years. This year there is a new “Top Dog” but being #2 doesn’t change anything about this breed's amazing qualities. As a large breed dog, the Lab has a wonderful personality. Active, friendly, playful, and outgoing, this large breed “baby” is known as the best family dog. Good with people, and kids the Labrador is a perfect family dog, its size is the one thing that has likely kept it from the #1 slot. With the rise of apartments and tiny home living, people are looking for smaller breeds with the same qualities. Life expectancy is 11-13 years.

3. Golden Retriever. Very similar to the Labrador Retriever in personality and temperament, the Golden makes another wonderful family-friendly dog. The Golden Retriever has never met a stranger and loves kids, they are loyal to a fault. With a longer coat, they are distinctly different in appearance. They love to be in the presence of people, and if you let them, they will climb on your lap despite their large size. Life expectancy is 10-12 years.

4. German Shephard. A vigilant watchdog the German Shephard has a distinctly different personality than the other dogs on the top 5. They love children but are more suspicious of strangers and other dogs. Another large breed dog the German Shephard is courageous, confident, and smart. The life expectancy is shorter, 7 – 10 years.

5. Poodle, Standard. Active, proud, playful, friendly, eager to please, a vigilant watchdog, and very smart, the Poodle is the best of both worlds. Great with children and other people, the Standard Poodle also has the benefit of being low to no shedding, though they have a higher maintenance coat than the other breeds. Life expectancy is 10 – 18 years.

American Kennel Club (AKC) has almost 200 dog breeds registered with their club. Founded in 1884 they have kept records of all recognized purebred dogs with the desire to maintain the integrity of each breed. For more information on pure dog breeds go to www.akc.org.