Virginia is the 12th most populated state in the United States. According to PawlicyAdvisor, over 36% of the state’s residents own at least one dog. This rate of dog ownership is below the national average but you can still find many canine friends across the state.
Moreover, there is much in Virginia for our furry friends to love. The state is home to hundreds of pet-friendly establishments. This includes plenty of dog-friendly restaurants, rentals, and shops.
Virginia is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors with your dog. There are hundreds of dog parks, dozens of hiking trails, and several awesome dog-friendly beaches and water-related attractions.
With so many pet-friendly locations, Virginia can be an amazing home for any kind of dog. That said, there are some breeds that are more popular 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 Virginia. Here’s what we found:
1. Goldendoodle
Goldendoodles are friendly hybrid dogs that come from mixing Poodle and Golden Retriever parents. They are a designer breed meaning they were bred to share the best qualities of both canine lineages. Intelligent and playful, Goldendoodles make a great companion for any Virignia family.
2. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are an intelligent and outgoing breed. Originally bred for the grueling job of retrieving fowl for hunters, Goldens are strong dogs that thrive on daily exercise. Goldens are also great companion dogs, which is why they have long been one of the most popular Virignia dog breeds.
3. Poodle
There’s no mistaking this breed. With their curly hair, Poodles are often considered one of the smartest dog breeds. These dogs are full of energy and you’ll find many of them out on walks and enjoying Virginia’s many dog parks.
4. German Shepherd Dog
German Shepherds are strong, athletic dogs. Many think they’re the best all-around working breed. In addition to their physical capabilities, Germans are also loving dogs which is why they are one of the most popular breeds in Virginia.
5. Labrador Retriever
Bred as both a loving companion and a capable working dog, Labrador Retrievers are the most registered breed with the American Kennel Club (AKC). Labs love being active and thrive when given the chance to enjoy the outdoors with their family.
Top 3 Dog Breeds in Alexandria
1. Labrador Retriever
Popular across the country, Labs also have a big presence in northern Virginia. This friendly, energetic breed loves to spend time with its humans. You can find plenty of Labs walking, hiking, and swimming everywhere across Alexandria.
2. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are the 2nd most popular breed in Alexandria. These dogs love the outdoors which makes them a perfect match for people looking for an active and affectionate friend to join the family.
3. French Bulldog
Many regard the French Bulldog as one of the best breeds for city living. As such, it’s not surprising that they’re one of the most popular breeds in Alexandria. These curious, compact dogs get along well with everyone in the family and they don’t need a whole lot of exercise.
Top 3 Dog Breeds in Richmond
1. Labrador Retriever
The most popular U.S. dog breed for 31 years and counting, Labs are also the most popular dog in Richmond. This friendly, energetic breed loves to spend time with its humans. You can find plenty of Labs walking, hiking, and swimming everywhere across the city.
2. Golden Retriever
It’s easy to see why this loving, outgoing dog is widely popular across the Richmond area. Golden Retrievers are kind to everyone in the family and a good match for a variety of living environments.
3. Goldendoodle
Goldendoodles are loved across Richmond for their friendly and outgoing personalities. Like other Poodle cross-breeds, families throughout the city can’t get enough of their adorable, shaggy, curly coats. Goldendoodles love nothing more than being around their humans and will thrive in any environment where they get daily exercise.
Top 3 Dog Breeds in Virginia Beach
1. German Shepherd Dog
German Shepherds are intelligent and devoted dogs which is why they are one of the most popular breeds in the world. Germans can thrive in a variety of settings, making them an awesome choice for the Virginia Beach family.
2. Labrador Retriever
Like many other cities, Labs are one of the most popular breed in Virginia Beach. With their webbed toes, Labrador Retrievers are great swimmers. You can find many of their smiling faces enjoying one of Virginia Beach’s dog-friendly beaches.
3. Beagle
Beagles were originally bred to act as scent hounds for tracking small game such as rabbits. While they have grown to be loving family companions, Beagles still love to use their noses and are happiest when tracking an interesting scent.
