Minnesota has the 22nd highest population in the US. With a healthy number of people, it’s not surprising that Minnesota is also home to many of man’s best friends. According to PawlicyAdvisor, 35.5% of the state’s residents own at least one dog.
More importantly, Minnesota has a lot to offer our furry friends. According to Pawsafe, the state is the 14th most pet-friendly location in the country. In the study, they found that 40% of Minnesota’s accommodations are pet-friendly. There are also over 180 pet-friendly restaurants and 241 pet-friendly attractions.
With so much to give our canine companions, Minnesota makes a great place to live for any kind of dog. That said, there are some breeds that are more common in the state than others.
PuppySpot has reviewed internal data for thousands of puppy sales to determine which dog breeds are the most popular in Minnesota. Here’s what we found:
1. Goldendoodle
Goldendoodles are loving, energetic cross-breed dogs that come from mixing Poodles and Golden Retriever parents. These dogs are both smart and athletic, exhibiting the best qualities of both canine lineages. Whether you live in rural Wilmar or downtown Minneapolis, you’ll see plenty of these adorable pups throughout Minnesota.
2. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are an intelligent and outgoing breed. Originally bred for the exerting job of retrieving fowl for hunters, Goldens are strong dogs that thrive on daily exercise. Golden Retrievers are also great family dogs, which is why they have long been one of the most popular Minnesota dog breeds.
3. German Shepherd
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 physically active.
4. 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 its parents. They are intelligent, playful, outgoing dogs that love attention. This makes them great companions for the whole Minnesotan family.
5. 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. Minnesotans love this breed, which is why you also see so many Poodle cross breeds across the state.
Top 3 Dog Breeds in Minneapolis
1. Labrador Retriever
Bred as both a loving companion and a capable working dog, there are more Labrador Retrievers registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC) than any other breed. Labs love being active and thrive when given plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
2. German Shepherd Dog
German Shepherds are the 2nd most AKC registered breed in Minneapolis. 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.
3. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are the 3rd most common dog in Minneapolis. These dogs love the outdoors, making them a perfect match for families looking for an active companion. You can find plenty of Goldens and their owners walking throughout the city and playing in one of many dog parks.
Top 3 Dog Breeds in St. Paul
1. Labrador Retriever
The most popular U.S. dog breed for 31 years and counting, Labs also have a big presence in St. Paul. This kind, energetic breed loves to spend time with its humans. You can find plenty of Labs walking, hiking, and swimming everywhere across the city.
2. Poodle
Poodles are hard to miss, and you can find plenty of them throughout St. Paul. These smart dogs are full of energy, and they are quick to make friends with new humans. Poodles are adaptable and can thrive in a big city environment, so long as they get their daily exercise.
3. Labradoodle
Labradoodles are an active dog breed that comes from Poodle and Labrador Retriever parents. First bred to act as hypoallergenic guide dogs, St. Paul Labradoodles come in a wide variety of sizes and colors, depending on their parents.
