7 Most Popular Dog Breeds In New York (2026 Update with Pictures)

Of the estimated 1.1 million pets in New York, approximately 600,000 are dogs. By far the most common “breed” of dog is the mongrel or crossbreed, while dog owners keep a wide range of breeds and dog types. Although there is no official register of dogs, making it difficult to gather exact figures, kennel club registrations show that the seven breeds below are the most commonly owned in New York.

The 7 Most Popular Dog Breeds in New York

1. French Bulldog

The French Bulldog recently became the most popular breed in the U.S., taking over from the long-reigning Labrador Retriever. Bred as a smaller version of the Bulldog, in England, they were exported to France by lacemakers and became known as the French Bulldog. Their small size, loving and playful nature, and expressive faces make them a popular choice of breed.

They are considered especially suitable for city life because of their small stature, which explains why they have become so popular in New York City, where apartment living is common.

2. Poodle

The Poodle comes in a variety of sizes, from the diminutive Toy Poodle to the larger Standard Poodle. Although playful, Poodles are renowned for being dignified dogs. They are highly intelligent and are usually keen to please their owners, which means that training is easy, but it also means that owners need to provide a lot of physical activity and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and potentially unwanted behavior.

Although they were originally bred for water retrieval work, Poodles are now classified as companion dogs, although some Standard Poodles are still used to retrieve downed game.

3. Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular breeds in the world and is especially popular in the U.S. thanks to its loving and accepting temperament. They are intelligent dogs that can learn tasks and commands quickly, hence their use as guide dogs, therapy dogs, and in a variety of other working roles, although they were originally bred as retrievers in Scotland. Their long coat protected them from water and the cold weather, while their soft mouths meant they could bring back prey without damaging the carcass.

The Retriever does require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation but makes a very good family dog.

4. Bulldog

The Bulldog is instantly recognizable thanks to its wrinkled face, short snout, and prominent teeth. Although the breed is quite short, it is a stocky and muscular breed. It was once used in bull baiting but has become a loving and gentle companion pet. They are fearless and strong, making them good watchdogs, and they get along well with family members of all ages, earning them a reputation for being nanny dogs. Despite their size, they are suitable apartment dwellers because they aren’t prone to fits of hyperactivity and can do well with regular lazy walks, rather than any intensive exercise.

5. Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever was, until 2022, America’s most popular dog breed. While it has been usurped by the French Bulldog, it remains a very popular breed. Its popularity is driven by its desire to please its humans and its loyal nature. There is very little that a pet Lab won’t do for time with its favorite tennis ball or toy.

The Lab was originally bred as a retriever and is still used for this purpose today, but you are as likely to see a Labrador Retriever working as a search and rescue dog, therapy dog, service dog, or a loving pet.

6. Dachshund

Although not in the top five most popular breeds in New York, the Dachshund is the most popular breed in Chelsea, Manhattan. It is a small breed that doesn’t need intensive exercise, but it still requires attention and walks. It was bred to hunt badgers, hence its long and short stature: it enabled the dog to get into badger setts and other holes to chase its quarry.

The Dachshund retains many of the badger hunting habits of old, and you are likely to find your Doxie tunneling into blankets or digging up your yard.

7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is another small breed that, while not as popular throughout the city, is the most popular in Tribeca and the Upper East Side. It is a sweet and affectionate breed that will get along with all family members, including children.

They are curious and playful dogs, which makes them even more suitable for family life, and they are highly adaptable, being able to live in most circumstances as long as they are given enough affection and love by their families.

What Breed Is the Most Popular In the U.S.?

The Labrador Retriever had been the most popular breed in the U.S. for 31 years until, in 2022, the French Bulldog took the title away. The small Frenchie is fun and funny, and loving and affectionate. It can be playful, gets along well with people, and is an adaptable dog that can live in apartments or houses.

What Is the Most Popular Dog In Brooklyn?

The French Bulldog’s size means that it is highly suited to live in an apartment, as long as it gets enough daily exercise through walks and other activities. As well as helping it become the most popular breed in the U.S. this has also made it the most popular breed in Brooklyn, where apartment living is commonplace.

Is NYC a Dog-Friendly City?

With a dog population of around 600,000 canines, New York is obviously accommodating of dogs. However, this doesn’t mean that dogs will be welcome everywhere. They aren’t usually welcomed into theaters, for example, and some stores may have no-dog policies. But, you can take your dog for a walk across Brooklyn Bridge or through Central Park.

How Many Dogs Can You Own In New York?

There are no statewide laws that dictate how many dogs you can keep in New York, but many neighborhoods and municipalities do have limits. There are also no laws dictating the breeds that you can or cannot own.

Final Thoughts

New York City is a dog-friendly city. Its large number of apartments means that small dog breeds are more popular than large and extra-large breeds. While hybrids and crossbreeds are most popular, the French Bulldog is the most popular purebred breed with the Poodle, in its various sizes, being the next most popular. The city’s diversity, however, extends to its canine population and there is a very wide range of breeds found throughout NYC. See Also: 

• 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds in Massachusetts

• Having a Dog in New York City

Featured Image Credit: Frank11, Shutterstock