It should come as no surprise that California is far and away the most populated state in the country. According to SeeCalifornia, nearly 40% of these Californian households own at least one dog. Because of this, there are more dogs in California than in any other state.
More importantly, the state has much to keep our furry friends happy. Home to many of the nation’s sunniest cities, California boasts some of the best weather in the country. According to the Washington Post, Long Beach ranks number one among cities with 210 nice days per year. Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco rank highly as well.
There are also many places in the Golden State that you can enjoy with your dog. This includes plenty of dog parks, hiking trails, dog-friendly rentals, hotels, and some of the best dog-friendly beaches in the country.
With so much to offer, California makes a great home for any kind of dog. That said, there are some breeds that are more popular than others.
PuppySpot has reviewed internal data for thousands of puppy sales to determine which dog breeds are the most popular in California. Here’s what we found:
1. Goldendoodle
Goldendoodles are loveable and energetic mixed breed dogs from Golden Retriever and Poodle parents. They are known as a designer breed as they were created to have the best qualities of both their parents. Goldendoodles are athletic, intelligent, and make for great playful family dogs. Whether you live in sunny San Jose or downtown Sacramento, you’ll see plenty of these adorable pups throughout the Golden State.
2. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are a highly intelligent and sociable breed. Originally bred for the demanding job of retrieving fowl for hunters, they are athletic, strong dogs that love their daily exercise. Golden Retrievers are also great family dogs, not just bred for work, which is why they have long been one of the most popular breeds in the country. And with the energy and high activity, they make a great fit for the fast-paced California lifestyle.
3. Labrador Retriever
Bred to be both a loving family dog and a capable working dog, Labrador Retrievers are the most registered breed with the American Kennel Club (AKC). These dogs love to exercise and thrive in homes with ample space to roam and soak up the California sun. You can find Labs in a variety of colorings including chocolate, yellow, silver, and black.
4. Poodle
Easily recognizable for their curly hair, Poodles are often regarded as one of the most intelligent dog breeds. They come in a variety of sizes including the standard Poodle, the Miniature Poodle, and the toy Poodle. You can also find several Poodle colorings including black, brown, silver, or a blend of colors. Californians love this breed, which is why you also see so many Poodle cross breeds across the state.
5. Cavapoo
The Cavapoo is a mixed dog breed that comes from Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle parents. This breed inherits the best traits of both their parents. They are intelligent, playful, outgoing dogs that love attention. This makes them great companions for the whole California family.
Top 3 Dog Breeds in Los Angeles
1. French Bulldog
French bulldogs are the number one AKC registered dog in Los Angeles. Known as “Frenchies”, this breed was originally bred in England to serve as a miniature Bulldog. They are fun-loving companion dogs with easygoing personalities. French Bulldogs love human contact and get along well with everyone in the family. With their small size Frenchies are great apartment dogs for those looking to live the metropolitan California lifestyle.
2. Bulldog
Also called the English Bulldog or the British Bulldog, these dogs were originally bred in England to drive cattle to market and to compete in the bullbaiting sport. Bulldogs are immediately recognizable by their furrowed brow, pushed-in nose, loose skin on the head and their thick-set, low-slung, muscular bodies.
3. Labrador Retriever
Labs are the 3rd most AKC registered dog in Los Angeles. This should come as no surprise as this lovable breed is great as both a worker and a family companion.
Top 3 Dog Breeds in San Francisco
1. Labrador Retriever
San Franciscans prefer the Labrador Retriever over any other dog. This breed is friendly to everyone they meet and they have a warm and loving personality. Labs love to swim, and the city of San Francisco has plenty of dog-friendly beaches to keep these active pups happy.
2. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are the second most popular breed in San Francisco. These love dogs love the outdoors which makes them a great fit for the Bay area. You can find plenty of Goldens and their owners walking throughout the city and its dog-friendly beaches.
3. German Shepherd Dog
German Shepherds are intelligent dogs that are widely considered to be the best all-around working breed. They are also loving, devoted dogs which is why they are one of the most popular breeds in the world. Germans have large, muscular bodies and are very active physically.
Top 3 Dog Breeds in San Diego
1. Labrador Retriever
Like many other cities, Labs are the most popular breed in San Diego. These friendly, energetic dogs love to spend time with their humans. You can find plenty of them walking, hiking, and swimming everywhere across the city.
2. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are widely popular in San Diego, as they are almost everywhere in the country. In addition to making great working dogs, Goldens often serve as guides for the blind or serve in search and rescue missions. This energetic breed loves physical activity so you’ll find plenty of their smiling faces enjoying the San Diego sun.
3. German Shepherd Dog
German Shepherds are the 3rd most AKC registered breed in San Diego. These loyal, intelligent dogs are easy to train and can learn a variety of different work roles. With their courage and size, they make for great guardians as well as gentle family companions.
