Since the mid 1900s, dogs have been the most popular pet to adopt. Dogs are companions, family members, and very special to their owners. The type of breed is very important when adopting a dog and many breeds have become popular throughout the years. 

1910-1919

The Boston Terrier originated from Boston, and is a mix between an English Bulldog and an English Terrier. It was the first US dog breed to gain recognition and reach the position of number one as most popular dog in America. 

1920-1929 

The German Shepherd breed became widely known during this decade due to the popular Hollywood canine, Rin Tin Tin. Rin Tin Tin was a male German Shepherd rescued from the World War I battlefield by an American soldier that trained him. He went on to star in 27 films and spread the popularity of the breed across the country. 

1930-1939

The Boston Terrier returned to popularity in this decade. Since this era was during the Great Depression, people were buying cheaper and smaller dogs like the Boston Terrier. 

1940-1949

The Cocker Spaniel rose to popularity with its long flowing ears and cheerful personality. The English version of a Cocker Spaniel was bred for hunting, while American Cocker Spaniels were bred for companionship. 

1950-1959

Thanks to the debut of the Charles Schulz comic dog, Snoopy, the Beagle breed became super popular in the fifties. Snoopy is still one of the most popular Beagle names and is the face of Beagles across America. 

1960- 1979

The Poodle took over America for over two decades with its curly and non sheddable hair. The poodle is from France and Germany, as a water dog for hunting. In North America, the Poodle became a fashion icon and a part of art in the 60s. In the 70s the breed stayed supreme with its miniature size and a toy dog. 

1980-1989

The Cocker Spaniel returned as America’s favorite dog in the ‘80s. The decade with big hair and technology advancements brought the breed back as more popular than ever. 

1990-2020

Bred in Britain from fishing dogs, Labrador Retrievers rose to popularity in the 1990s. They come in multiple colors: yellow, black, and chocolate. Labs thrive as family dogs because they are friendly and outgoing. They are individuals that are companions to their owners and are still popular today. 

Many breeds have different lifestyles, personalities, and looks, and there are 450 breeds around the world waiting for their perfect human companion.