Tennessee has the 16th highest population in the US. With a healthy number of people, it’s not surprising that Tennessee is home to many of man’s best friends. According to PawlicyAdvisor, 47% of the state’s residents own at least one dog. This rate of dog ownership is one of the highest in the country.
More importantly, Tennessee has a lot to offer our furry friends. According to Safewise, the state is the 2nd most pet-friendly location in the country. It is home to plenty of pet-friendly establishments. This includes plenty of dog parks, hiking trails, dog-friendly rentals, and hotels.
Tennessee also boasts a favorable climate, something all our pooches love. According to NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center (NCDC), 4 of the 125 most sunny cities in the country are in the State of Tennessee.
With so much to offer, Tennessee makes a great place to live for any kind of dog. That said, there are some breeds that are more common in the state.
PuppySpot has reviewed internal data for thousands of puppy sales to determine which dog breeds are the most popular in Tennessee. Here’s what we found:
1. Goldendoodle
Goldendoodles are adorable and energetic mixed breed dogs that come from crossing Poodles and Golden Retrievers. They are both smart and athletic, exhibiting the best qualities of both canine lineages. Whether you live in rural Jackson or downtown Nashville, you’ll see plenty of these adorable pups throughout the Volunteer State.
2. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are a clever and loving breed. Originally bred for the demanding job of fetching fowl for hunters, Goldens are athletic dogs that thrive with plenty of exercise. They are also great family dogs, which is why they have long been one of the most popular Tennessee dog breeds.
3. French Bulldog
Frenchies were first bred in England to act 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 living in one of Tennesse’s urban areas.
4. German Shepherd Dog
German Shepherds are the 4th most popular dog in Tennessee. Germans are loyal, intelligent dogs that are easy to train. Plus, they can learn a variety of different work roles. With their courage and size, they make for great guardians as well as gentle family companions.
5. Shih Tzu
Known as little lion dogs, Shih Tzus are the most popular toy dog breed in Tennessee. Intended to be companion dogs, they are an incredibly affectionate and playful breed. With their small stature, floppy ears, and long silky hair, you will recognize this luxurious breed all over Tennessee.
Top 3 Dog Breeds in Nashville
1. Labrador Retriever
The most popular U.S. dog breed for 31 years and counting, Labs are also the most popular breed in Nashville. This friendly, energetic breed loves to spend time with its humans. You can find plenty of Labs walking, hiking, and swimming everywhere across the Music City.
2. German Shepherd Dog
German Shepherds are intelligent dogs and are widely considered to be the best all-around working breed. In addition to their strength, Germans are also loving dogs which is why they are the 2nd most popular breed in Nashville.
3. Poodle
Poodles are hard to miss and you can find plenty of them throughout Music City. These smart dogs are full of energy and they are quick to make friends with new humans alike. Poodles are adaptable and can thrive in a big city environment, so long as they get their daily exercise.
Top 3 Dog Breeds in Memphis
1. French Bulldog
Frenchies are the most popular breed in Memphis. Affectionate and playful, they make an ideal companion for both new and experienced dog owners. While stubborn at times, they are easy to train and eager to please their family.
2. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are the 2nd most popular breed in Memphis. These dogs love the outdoors and are happiest when given plenty of exercise. You can find plenty of Goldens and their owners walking throughout the city and playing in one of Memphis’ many dog parks.
3. Bulldog
Also called the English Bulldogs, these dogs were originally bred in England to drive cattle to market. Bulldogs in Memphis are immediately recognizable by their furrowed brow, pushed-in nose, loose skin on the head and their thick-set, low-slung, muscular bodies.
Top 3 Dog Breeds in Knoxville
1. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are the most common breed in Knoxville. These dogs love the outdoors which makes them a perfect match for the scenic Knoxville area.
2. French Bulldog
Frenchies are often regarded as one of the best city dogs, so it’s not surprising that they’re popular in Knoxville’s downtown areas. These curious, smaller-sized dogs get along well with children and they don’t need a whole lot of exercise.
3. Beagle
Beagles were originally bred to act as scent hounds for tracking small game such as rabbits. With compact bodies, dark brown eyes, and soft expressions, you can easily recognize a Beagle out and about the Knoxville area.
