10 Most Popular Large Breed Dogs

This year the AKC celebrates its 131st anniversary. As is their tradition, they tallied the Club’s registrations to determine the most popular dog breeds. To see the full list of most popular dog breeds, go to Top Dog Breeds of 2014 – What Are the Most Popular Dogs?

Leading the pack again this year are large dog breeds; of the overall top 10 most popular dog breeds, large breeds account for 6. The following are the top large dogs based on the AKC’s statistics.

The Top 10 Large Dog Breeds of 2014 are:

Labrador retrievers – For the 24th year in a row, the Labrador retriever was ranked as American’s Top Dog. Labs are lovable companions and popular with families for their gentle, affectionate personalities.

German Shepherd Dog – Smart, loyal, faithful, and devoted to their human companions, The German shepherd is a favorite breed for families, law enforcement, and the disabled.

Golden Retrievers – This is by far one of the most lovable and friendly canine companions. “Goldens” are also excellent companions hunters.

They are frequently associated with children and suburban life but also love water and have a natural retrieving ability paralleled by few other breeds.

Standard Poodles – These amazing athletes have been one of the most popular breeds in the world as well as a symbol of elegance and opulent luxury. The largest of the Poodles, the standard poodle stands over 15 inches at the shoulder and weighs around 45 pounds.

Boxers – A breed known for being friendly and outgoing “people dogs,” Boxers are loved by their pet parents for the way these dogs move their whole rear when they wag their tails. Popular in the United States since the 1940s, the boxer is a wonderful family dog.

Rottweilers – Although they may appear intimidating on the surface, many homes are shared with the Rottweiler. This is a strong and powerful breed with natural protective instincts. Originally used as a herder, the Rottweiler quickly became better known as a guard dog.

German Shorthaired Pointers – Striking in appearance and talents, this is an excellent hunting dog with many loyal fans. A truly man-made breed, German Shorthaired Pointers are thought to have assisted hunters since the 17th century.

Siberian Huskies – These cold-weather cuties first appeared in northeast Asia, serving as a sled dog for nomadic people. The breed was brought to Alaska in 1909. That year, the first team of huskies competed in the All Alaska Sweepstakes Race, and within a few years Siberian huskies were winning sled races and were becoming respected as a rugged yet gentle dog with incredible strength and endurance.

Doberman Pinschers – Once developed as a fiercely protective guard dog, years of selective breeding have toned down the Doberman’s temperament and he is now a loving and devoted family pet.

Great Danes – Powerful and elegant, this breed is often known as the “Gentle Giant.” Their prodigious size and food bills come complete with an affectionate and sweet personality.

Click on the links above to learn about each of these wonderful large breed dogs. Looking for a smaller breed dog? See our article on American’s Most Popular Small Breed Dogs to learn more.