What’s the most popular dog breed in Illinois? Hint: It’s not the French bulldog
The most popular dog breed in the U.S. in 2025 was the French bulldog, but another type of pup took the No. 1 spot for Illinois dog owners.
The popularity of the French bulldog has skyrocketed across the nation in recent years, although the breed is predisposed to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, among other health issues.
The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends carefully considering many factors when choosing what kind of dog to acquire and from where, from purchasing a puppy from a reputable breeder to adopting from a shelter or rescue. It’s important to consider the breed or individual dog’s needs, such as exercise and mental stimulation, grooming and temperament, the AVMA advises.
If you need assistance to help keep your pet, several metro-east organizations offer services such as help with pet food, spay and neuter surgeries and vaccines.
Here’s what to know about the most popular dog breeds in Illinois.
Most popular dog breeds in Illinois
The Labrador retriever took the top spot for Illinois’ most popular dog breed, according to the American Kennel Club, the primary purebred dog registry in the U.S., while the national favorite landed in No. 2 for the state.
Here’s how the top 10 most popular dog breeds in Illinois compared in 2025, according to the AKC:
1. Labrador retriever
2. French bulldog
3. Golden retriever
4. German shepherd
5. Dachshund
6. Poodle
7. Rottweiler
8. Beagle
9. German shorthaired pointer
10. Bulldog
This list reflects the number of purebred dogs registered with the AKC in each of the most popular breeds, so mixed breed dogs are not included. The organization does not provide the number of individual dogs registered.
Nationally, the top 10 most popular dog breeds in 2025 were the French Bulldog, Labrador retriever, golden retriever, German shepherd dog, dachshund, poodle, beagle, rottweiler, German shorthaired pointer and the bulldog, according to the AKC.
The AKC also compiles rankings of the most popular dog breeds in major U.S. cities, and found St. Louis’ most popular breeds were the Labrador retriever, French bulldog, golden retriever, rottweiler and bulldog. In Chicago, the French bulldog, golden retriever, bulldog, Labrador retriever and German shepherd dog were the five most popular breeds by registration.
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