Labrador Retriever Again Tops Most Popular Breed List

The American Kennel Club released its annual list of the most popular breeds in America, and for the 22nd year in a row, the Labrador retriever is Number 1.

The 2012 Top Ten list had a few shake-ups, as the Yorkshire terrier dropped to sixth place and the bulldog moved into fifth. The golden retriever and beagle also swapped spots between 2011 and 2012.

"Bigger breeds are making their move," said AKC Spokesperson Lisa Peterson in a press release. "The popularity of the pint-sized, portable pooch just gave way to a litter of larger breeds in the Top 10. These predictable, durable, steady breeds, like Labs and Goldens, are great with kids and offer the whole family more dog to love.

Here is the full list:

2012 Most Popular Dogs in the U.S.   1. Labrador Retriever 2. German Shepherd Dog 3. Golden Retriever 4. Beagle 5. Bulldog 6. Yorkshire Terrier 7. Boxer 8. Poodle 9. Rottweiler 10. Dachshund

Here is the AKC's ranking of all 177 breeds that it recognizes.

And don't forget Rocky Hill's Top Dogs Contest 2012.

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