The French Bulldog has become America’s most popular dog breed, taking the title from the Labrador Retriever after 31 years.

The Labrador Retriever, which held the title of America’s most popular dog for over 30 years, has been dethroned. Welcome to the era of the French Bulldog.

According to the American Kennel Club's 2022 rankings released on Wednesday, the charming and compact French Bulldog has now taken the top spot. After 31 years in first place, the Lab has dropped to second.

The French Bulldog has climbed the ranks over the years, with its popularity reflected in the AKC's registration statistics. Back in 2012, French Bulldogs were ranked 14th in America. Since then, their registrations have skyrocketed by 1,000 percent, according to the AKC.

In the 2022 National Dog Show, Winston, the top-ranked French Bulldog, won Best in Show. French Bulldogs previously held the No. 2 spot in 2020 and maintained that ranking in 2021. It’s easy to understand their appeal: they are small and require less exercise compared to larger breeds, making them ideal for apartment living in the city. They also do well in suburban homes, provided they get plenty of time with their owners.

“Frenchies are playful, adaptable, loyal, and friendly,” said AKC Executive Secretary Gina DiNardo in a statement. “They make excellent companions for a wide range of people.”

However, it’s important to note that they are a brachycephalic breed. While their cute, flat faces are part of their charm, this trait can lead to breathing difficulties, especially in hot weather or during exercise. They are also prone to skin allergies, heat stroke, and eye issues.

That’s why it’s crucial to ensure that any French Bulldog you purchase comes from a reputable breeder rather than a puppy mill.

**206 French Bulldog Names for Your New Companion**

**The 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds in 2022**

The list of the most popular dog breeds for 2022 mirrors that of 2021, but with a different order. Here’s the 2022 list, including the changes in rankings:

1. French Bulldog (+1)
2. Labrador Retriever (-1)
3. Golden Retriever (0)
4. German Shepherd (0)
5. Poodle (0)
6. Bulldog (0)
7. Rottweiler (+1)
8. Beagle (-1)
9. Dachshund (+1)
10. German Shorthaired Pointer (-1)

Additionally, some lesser-known breeds have made significant strides in popularity:

- American Hairless Terrier (from No. 135 in 2021 to No. 120 in 2022)
- Gordon Setter (from No. 113 in 2021 to No. 99 in 2022)
- Italian Greyhound (from No. 73 in 2021 to No. 63 in 2022)
- Anatolian Shepherd (from No. 88 in 2021 to No. 79 in 2022)

The American Kennel Club currently recognizes 200 breeds, excluding hybrids like the Labradoodle. The most recent breed to be recognized is the Bracco Italiano.