Popular Pets — What to Know about 2019’s Top Breeds

From fashion to fitness, every new year ushers in new trends. Those of us who want to stay informed on what’s hot are eager to absorb these lists of the “top,” “best” or “most anticipated” for everything in our lives. But what about pet breeds? If your clients are interested a trendy breed identified in 2019’s furry friend fads, be sure to share this list. But remember, no matter the breed, a personal, lifelong connection between human and pet is what matters most.

Top dogs

Recent numbers indicate that Americans keep almost 90 million dogs as pets, with 192 unique breeds registered by the American Kennel Club (AKC). The top five breeds in the U.S. based on AKC data are:

1. Labrador Retriever — Labs have been the number one breed on the AKC list since 1991. It’s no surprise, since their loveable, energetic personalities make them great family dogs. Their high ranking is also influenced by the fact that labs are often the breed of choice to be guide dogs or to work in other assistance roles such as search and rescue.
2. German Shepherd — Intelligent and highly trainable, German Shepherds are excellent guard dogs and often used in police work. They are extremely loyal to their owners, but can be over-protective if improperly trained.
3. Golden Retriever — Like Labs, these dogs make excellent family pets. They are good-natured, playful and adorable!
4. French Bulldog — A rising star on the list, Frenchies seem to be everywhere these days, trotting alongside celebrities in L.A. as well as on sidewalks in middle America. Their cute wrinkles and big ears make them irresistible, while their small size makes them practical. Currently, they’re the number one breed in the UK. Critics, however, are concerned about the dog’s popularity due to its high risk of breathing problems and other health issues.
5. Bulldog — A larger, even more wrinkled counterpart to number four above, bulldogs also continue to gain popularity due to their presence in pop culture, sports and advertising. Their loyal and calm demeanors certainly help, too! Like Frenchies, these dogs are also at high risk for cardiac and breathing issues.

Other popular pooches from the AKC and worldwide lists include:

• Border Collies — Considered the world’s most intelligent dog, Border Collies have long been the breed of choice for farm work and herding. They are great for active families who can give them a lot of exercise and mental stimulation.
• Poodles — With various sizes and colors, poodles have been popular in the U.S. for decades. Their unique coats give them an air of sophistication, while their intelligence and loyalty make them great pets.
• Beagles — Cute and sociable, beagles are also popular with families. However, their hunting noses and howling can sometimes be a nuisance!

The cat’s meow

Since up to 95% of cats in the U.S. are mixed breeds, the country’s number one cat breed remains the generic domestic shorthair, a catchall name for any cat of mixed ancestry. When it comes to purebred cats, however, certain pedigrees still reign supreme. According to the most recent data from the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), the top five breeds are: 

1. Exotic — Never heard of it? You’re not alone. This newer breed (only around since the 1950s or 1960s) looks a lot like a Persian cat but is actually a cross between a Persian and the American Shorthair. Exotics aren’t as high-maintenance as Persians because they shed less and therefore require less brushing.
2. Ragdoll — This loveable lap cat has been beloved by pet owners for decades. Known to be friendly and docile, they’re named for the way their bodies go limp, like a ragdoll, when they’re picked up.
3. British Shorthair — One of the world’s oldest cat breeds, British shorthairs come in a variety of colors, often with striking eyes. Many feline social media stars (cats with millions of followers!) such as White Coffee Cat, are British shorthairs.
4. Persian — Persians first became popular in the Victorian era and have retained that popularity ever since! With large eyes and long coats, they have a reputation for being prissy, but are actually affectionate and sweet.
5. Maine Coon — Another long-haired variety, Maine Coons are gentle giants known as the “dogs of the cat world” because of their often massive size. Friendly and sociable, they make great family pets.

Other notable breeds that continue to be popular are the Siamese, Abyssinian and the Himalayan. The hypoallergenic, hairless and striking Sphynx cat is also on the rise.

Is a trendy breed right for your client? Remind them to consider all aspects of the animal’s personality and physical needs, not just its popularity, before selecting a new best friend. For animals and people, a personal, lifelong connection is what matters most.

Covetrus North America is an advocate for every animal, everywhere.

Sources

https://www.businessinsider.com/100-most-popular-dog-breeds-united-states-2018-9

https://www.pets4homes.co.uk/pet-advice/french-bulldog-goes-into-2019-as-the-uks-number-one-dog-breed.html

https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/animalia/wp/2018/05/04/french-bulldogs-cuteness-comes-at-a-steep-cost/?noredirect=on&utm_term=.64a750598cfa

https://2puppies.com/articles/50/which-will-be-the-most-popular-dog-breeds-in-2019

https://www.thedogdigest.com/featured/the-20-best-dog-breeds-to-adopt-for-2016/18/

https://moderncat.com/articles/cat-1-4-million-followers/

https://catappy.com/domestic-shorthair-cat-facts

https://www.meowingtons.com/blogs/lolcats/check-out-the-5-most-popular-cat-breeds-in-the-us