Poor puppies . . . they used to be the most popular pets in the nation, until cats took over the top "spot." (Get it? . . . Spot? . . .) But dog owners get the last laugh: they live longer than cat owners, so there.
So the doggies are here to stay. But for the list of most popular dog breeds for 1999, we had to bid a fond farewell to the Cocker Spaniel ("Lady" of Lady and the Tramp fame), and a good riddance to the annoyingly yippy yet sickly sweet Pomeranian. Two new dogs have joined the list of the 10 most popular registered breeds in the USA. We say "registered" because those are the easiest to keep track of, but truth be told, the most popular dog is still probably the good old-fashioned mutt. So if you happen to be one of those crazies who treats your dog like a child, read on and find out how popular your pooch is.
1. DOG BREEDS 10 - 8
10. Boxer - 34,998The Boxer is a very alert-looking animal, with pointy tips to his ears that are generally cocked forward. There is a bit of the pug-nose look, and the jowls hang down a bit, but the head has a distinctively chiseled look about it. In other words, it looks like Mike Tyson . . . who's a boxer . . . Coincidence? We think not.
Originally developed in Germany as a guard, working, and companion dog, the Boxer was a cross between several breeds, including a Great Dane (hence the ears) and the Bulldog (hence the nose). Its alert posture is due to the fact that it is a "hearing" guard dog, but when not at work it is a playful breed, and very patient with children.
9. Yorkshire Terrier - 40,684
Academics have long debated whether the Yorkie is a small dog or a large sewer rat. After all, when the Yorkshire Terrier is not properly groomed, it looks like a mangy little furball. However, when properly attended to, the Yorkie is a pretty little dog that old women like to carry in their purses.
This little dog is quite independent, but a great companion. They are especially good apartment dogs, since they don't need much exercise. However, they can be easily injured by young children - especially emotionally, because children are apt to say such cruel things. So for this reason, it is not recommended as a family dog, but more for a retired person, or people with a lot of time on their hands and a love of combing something that resembles Chewbacca's left forearm.
8. Rottweiler - 41,776
Rottweilers, a name that some incorrectly think means "rotten and vile," were voted "Dog with the Prettiest Name" at the Inglewood Dog Fancier's Association Annual Show and Barbecue. (This title was later rescinded when irregularities were discovered in the IDFA ballot tabulation procedures.)
The Rottweiler is a massive, powerful, and confident breed, and they make excellent guard dogs. Unfortunately, Rottweilers don't look good dressed in pink clothing and they can't fit in most purses. Rather, Rottweilers should stick to what they do best--being big, scary watch dogs. These dogs can be an intimidating force to a potential prowler, and it's no wonder they're so high on the list.
2. DOG BREEDS 7 - 5
7. Chihuahua - 42,013Bless you, Taco Bell. Ever since their famous ad campaign, the popularity of this cute little Mexican dog has been skyrocketing. In fact, this year the cheeky little taquito burst into the top 10 the first time, knocking the poor puffy Pomeranian off the list.
The perfect-sized dog for urbanite apartment-dwellers, the Chihuahua is very adaptable and loves to travel, but must live inside, due to a pronounced agoraphobia in the breed. They also get cold very easily, so be prepared to knit plenty of little doggie sweaters. Chihuahuas have been around for many years as both a popular pet and a religious symbol dating back to the time of the Aztecs.
6. Poodle - 45,852
The national dog of France, the Poodle can be clipped and shaped however you like them, which has made them very popular with bonsai-tree artists and hairdressers. While their over-groomed appearance can make them look rather silly, they still make excellent pets, as they are intelligent, loving, and leave relatively small poopies.
Poodles are active, barky, and playful, but also elegant with the right cut and style. The cruel, psychedelic "tie-dyeing" of Poodles has thankfully gone out with the 60s, and the Poodle remains a great family dog, whether you get the Standard, Miniature, or Toy variety.
5. Beagle - 49,080
Since 1998, the Beagle has slid in total registrations by over 7,000; it remains at number 5 this year despite the dip in total numbers. The most famous Beagle of all time is undoubtedly Peanuts star Snoopy, who may have single-handedly brought the breed to the top of the list in the first place.
Originally a kind of foxhound, the Beagle is a great tracker and hunter. It should never be allowed out without a leash for this reason, as it will often take off on its own, following a trail to who-knows-where. They are friendly, cheerful dogs, known for imitating vultures and chasing Red Barons. Prospective owners, be warned that they are a vocal dog, due to their background on the hunt.
3. DOG BREEDS 4 - 2
4. Dachshund - 50,772
How can anyone not love the little wiener dog? They make great apartment dogs, the short hairs require minimal grooming, and are endlessly entertaining to look at. And they don't eat a lot, to be sure. A great companion dog, the Dachsund is intelligent, active, and fiercely loyal to its owner, sometimes focussing in on one person to the exclusion of all others. This makes them the ideal pet for a single or terribly insecure person.
The breed was originally developed in Germany over 300 years ago, and the name is actually German for "badger hound." They are fiercely courageous, even to the point of foolhardiness, and their small stature allowed them to quickly jump into badger holes and flush out badgers on badger hunts. Who knew that Germany had so many badgers running around?
3. German Shepherd - 57,256
This is another breed developed, no surprise, in Germany, where they seem to do little else but make big dogs. The German Shepherd is an extremely intelligent dog, often used as a guide dog, police dog, herder, and all around great family pet. Their SAT scores are unbelievable. They are curious, faithful, and obedient, and love to be in on all activities.
While they make great housedogs, they are not recommended for apartments unless you are willing to take it outside for hours and hours of exercise. And they eat their weight in kibble every two and a half days.
2. Golden Retriever - 62,652
The Golden Retriever is another highly intelligent breed, useful as a guide dog for the blind. They are also hunters, family pets, and show dogs. Goldies tend to be friendly and good-natured, not known for hostility towards people or animals, or even obnoxious screamy children. This even temperament makes them a great family dog, especially with youngins around the place.
The Golden Retriever is a big dog with a big appetite, so it will need a lot of exercise, especially if confined to an apartment all day. They also shed TONS in the summer, so get ready to have dog hair cover your clothes, food, and everything in your entire house. Records on the breed's development date back to 1835 in Scotland, thanks to scrupulous gamekeepers in Scotland.
4. THE MOST POPULAR DOG BREED
1. Labrador Retriever - 154,897
Bred primarily as a working gun dog, the Labrador Retriever is a gentle breed, with an outgoing nature and a ridiculously friendly temperament. Known for its "otter tail" (and its drool), this athletic dog can go from the hunt to the showroom to the family room with equal aplomb. It looks just as good after a shampoo as it does following a mudbath - a true Renaissance dog!
Because of their gentle natures, Labrador Retrievers make good pets when children or seniors are part of the household, although as pups they can get extremely wild and energetic. While they aren't aggressive, they do bark to keep the weirdos at bay. Keep in mind that Labs have big appetites and need lots of exercise, but they're big ol' friendly dogs. Hey, 150,000+ people can't be wrong . . .
