10 Most Popular Dog Breeds in North Carolina in 2026 (With Info & Pictures)
Learning about the various dog breeds is fascinating, and if you are thinking about getting a new puppy, it can be helpful to learn about the most popular dogs in your state, as they will likely be the easiest to find and maybe even the least expensive. If you live in North Carolina, keep reading for a list of the top choices for dog owners in the Old North State so you can be better informed.
Top 10 Popular Dog Breeds in North Carolina
1. Cane Corso
| Average Weight: | 90–120 pounds |
| Average Height: | 23.5–27.5 inches |
| Lifespan: | 9–12 years |
| Temperament: | Protective, loyal, intelligent, and confident |
The Cane Corso recently became the most popular dog breed in North Carolina. They are a large and powerful Italian breed with strong guarding instincts and a muscular physique. They protect their families, and their loyalty and intelligence make them excellent companions for experienced dog owners who can provide proper training and socialization.
2. French Bulldog
| Average Weight: | 16–28 pounds |
| Average Height: | 11–12 inches |
| Lifespan: | 10–12 years |
| Temperament: | Affectionate, playful, adaptable, and friendly |
The French Bulldog, or Frenchie, is a small, lovable breed. Their charming personality makes them a great companion for various living situations, including small apartments. They're affectionate toward their owners and enjoy human company, often sitting on their owner's laps. They also get along well with children and other pets.
3. Australian Sheperd
| Average Weight: | 40–65 pounds |
| Average Height: | 18–23 inches |
| Lifespan: | 12–15 years |
| Temperament: | Intelligent, energetic, loyal, and trainable |
Despite their name, the Australian Shepherd originated in the United States. They have amazing herding abilities and are highly intelligent and energetic. They thrive in active households and excel in dog sports and agility training, but they require plenty of mental and physical stimulation to lead happy lives.
4. Shih Tzu
| Average Weight: | 9–16 pounds |
| Average Height: | 9–10.5 inches |
| Lifespan: | 10–18 years |
| Temperament: | Affectionate, friendly, independent, and lively |
The Shih Tzu is a small and adorable toy breed originating from China. They have long fur and a friendly demeanor. They are lively and enjoy playful interactions with their owners or children (as long as they don’t pull the dog’s hair). Fortunately, the Shih Tzu also usually gets along with other pets. Their independent streak might make training challenging, but their affectionate nature makes them a wonderful companion.
5. Shiba Inu
| Average Weight: | 17–23 pounds |
| Average Height: | 13.5–16.5 inches |
| Lifespan: | 12–15 years |
| Temperament: | Alert, confident, independent, and loyal |
The Shiba Inu is a Japanese breed that has a foxlike appearance and a spirited personality. They are independent and often have a cat-like aloofness, making them less needy for constant attention and less likely to suffer separation anxiety. While they can be loyal and affectionate with their families, their strong-willed nature requires consistent training and socialization from an early age to help them get along better with children, strangers, and other pets as adults.
6. Labrador Retriever
| Average Weight: | 55–80 pounds |
| Average Height: | 21.5–24.5 inches |
| Lifespan: | 10–14 years |
| Temperament: | Friendly, outgoing, obedient, and gentle |
The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular breeds in the United States. These friendly, gentle, and social dogs get along well with people, children, and other pets. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them easy to train and suitable to be service dogs, therapy dogs, and family pets.
7. German Sheperd
| Average Weight: | 50–90 pounds |
| Average Height: | 22–26 inches |
| Lifespan: | 9–13 years |
| Temperament: | Intelligent, loyal, courageous, and versatile |
The German Shepherd is a versatile and intelligent breed used in various working roles, including police, search and rescue, and general service. They are loyal and protective of their families, making them excellent guard dogs. Proper training and socialization are crucial to keep them well-behaved.
8. Yorkshire Terrier
| Average Weight: | 4–7 pounds |
| Average Height: | 7–8 inches |
| Lifespan: | 11–15 years |
| Temperament: | Spirited, affectionate, energetic, and brave |
The Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie, is a small breed with a big personality. Despite their small size, they are filled with energy and have a fearless demeanor that causes them to stand their ground, even against dogs much larger than them. They're friendly dogs that are well-suited for households with limited space. Their long, silky coat requires regular grooming to keep them looking their best.
9. Beagle
| Average Weight: | 20–30 pounds |
| Average Height: | 13–15 inches |
| Lifespan: | 12–15 years |
| Temperament: | Curious, friendly, merry, and gentle |
Beagles have an excellent sense of smell and gentle nature. They are curious and friendly, making them suitable for families with children and other pets. Beagles require mental stimulation and exercise to prevent boredom-related behaviors, but their loyalty and sociability make them wonderful companions for various lifestyles. Their small size makes them a good choice for apartments as long as they can get out for walks.
10. Plott Hound
| Average Weight: | 40–75 pounds |
| Average Height: | 20–25 inches |
| Lifespan: | 12–14 years |
| Temperament: | Intelligent, loyal, determined, and alert |
The Plott Hound has excellent tracking and hunting abilities and is of special significance for the people of North Carolina because they are the state dog. They are loyal and determined dogs that many owners use to track large games. Their strong work ethic and alertness make them suitable for active households that can provide them with physical and mental exercise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why Are Cane Corsos Popular in North Carolina?
Cane Corsos are known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them sought-after as guard dogs and family protectors in North Carolina households.
How Do Cane Corsos Handle the Warm Climate of North Carolina?
The Cane Corso has a short coat that helps it tolerate warm temperatures. Nevertheless, owners should provide ample shade and fresh water and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day to help their dogs avoid dehydration and heat stroke.
How Do French Bulldogs Handle the Warm Climate in North Carolina?
Due to their flat faces, French Bulldogs are sensitive to heat, so it's essential to provide them with shade, keep them hydrated, and avoid strenuous activities during hot weather. Keeping them in an air-conditioned environment is the best option.
Why Are Australian Shepherds Well-Liked in North Carolina?
The Australian Shepherd's intelligence, agility, and versatility make them appealing to active lifestyles and outdoor enthusiasts in North Carolina. Ideal activities can include hiking, swimming, and hunting.
Why Are Plott Hounds So Popular in North Carolina?
The Plott Hound is historically connected to North Carolina and is the state dog. In the late 1700s, a German immigrant named Johannes Plott developed them from Hanover Hounds to hunt bears in his new home.
Final Thoughts
The Cane Corso is currently the most popular dog in North Carolina, followed closely by the lovable French Bulldog. Other popular breeds in this state include the Australian Shepard, Shih Tzu, and the state dog, the Plott Hound. While they didn’t take the top spots, Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds are popular breeds in many other states and make great additions to any home.
Sources
Featured Image Credit: dodafoto, Shutterstock
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Ed Malaker is a seasoned writer who has contributed to a wide range of blogs covering everything from tools to guitars, and pets to fitness. When Ed isn't writing, he is usually making DIY projects around the house or working in the garden.
