They’re known for their fashion, food, and the Eiffel Tower, but the French are also dog lovers. It’s estimated that there are around 7.5 million dogs in France, and we’ve collected a list of the 15 most popular breeds.

We’ve also added in some interesting facts about each of these breeds to give you a proper introduction. Of course, some names on the list might be familiar, while others might be new to you.

The 15 Most Popular Dog Breeds in France

1. Australian Shepherd

Despite their name, Australian Shepherds are an American dog, thought to have been bred from a breed of Spanish shepherd dogs brought to America. They’re lively, clever dogs that do well with an experienced dog parent.

They’re intelligent and easy to train, and they’re often used as service dogs. An interesting fact about Australian Shepherds is that they sometimes have two different colored eyes; some even have two colors in one eye.

2. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are excellent family dogs and a great addition to a family of first-time dog parents. They also make great assistance dogs and are generally the top choice for Guide Dogs for the Blind.

They love water! Most Golden Retrievers take any opportunity to splash around in water, and thankfully, their coats are thick and keep them warm after playtime.

3. Belgian Shepherd

The Belgian Shepherd is a beautiful dog, and like many herding breeds, they require a lot of exercise. Letting this dog out into the yard to run around won’t be enough, though. They love spending time with their humans, and you’ll have to take part in the exercise sessions. Go for runs together, or go to a park and play with a ball, and your Belgian Shepherd will be happy!

4. Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Staffordshire Bull Terriers love cuddles, but they’re very energetic dogs. They enjoy meeting new humans and being the center of everything that’s going on at home.

They’re very affectionate and form strong and lasting bonds with their family, making them ideal family pets. They have been nicknamed “nanny dogs” because they’re known to be playful and patient with children. They are also jumpers, so before getting one, ensure you have a tall enough fence in your yard.

5. German Shepherd

German Shepherds are known for working with the police and armed forces, but they were originally bred for herding. This instinct is still strong, and they must exercise to avoid boredom. They’re loyal and easily trained because they are one of the most intelligent breeds in the world.

6. Labrador Retriever

Labradors are perfect family pets and will bond with the whole family, and their patient nature makes them ideal for families with children. They’re very similar to the Golden Retriever except for slight differences. For example, Labs come in a few different colors.

7. American Staffordshire Terrier

The American Staffordshire Terrier had a tragic start and was bred for blood sports in the United Kingdom in the 18th and 19th centuries. For this reason, the breed is banned in some areas and has a bad reputation, but it remains a popular choice in France.

The American Staffordshire Terrier can be hyper, but they don’t live up to their bad reputation; they are lovable and affectionate and make wonderful family pets.

8. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel dogs are popular in France, the United Kingdom, and the United States. They’re small and enjoy the company of their families so much that they can get quite upset when left alone. They are adaptable to where they live and enjoy country and city living but require an active family that can mentally challenge them.

A team of scientists discovered they are a tame breed because they’re the furthest removed physically and characteristically from wolves!

9. English Setter

English Setters are great family pets that love children and other pets. They were originally bred for hunting but are now mainly companion dogs. They’re known to have high energy levels, so be prepared for lots of exercise to keep them mentally and physically fit.

10. Beagle

Beagles get their name from Middle French. “Bee gueule” means “wide throat,” which could be translated to “loud mouth!” They were originally bred as scent hounds and are an adaptable breed. Beagles are ideal for first-time dog parents, thanks to their size and adaptability. The most famous Beagle you’ve probably heard of is Snoopy from the Peanuts comic.

11. English Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels are known for being “happy” dogs, thanks to their wagging tails. They love to play and are agile and athletic. They were originally bred as gun dogs, but they’re great companions and excellent family pets.

They thrive in the city and country when they have somewhere safe they can run around and burn off all their energy. They have beautiful coats that are high maintenance, and you’ll need enough time to commit to their care if you take one on.

12. French Bulldog

Despite the name, French Bulldogs originated in England. It’s thought they appeared in Paris in the mid-nineteenth century after being imported from England.

French Bulldogs might be small, but they are filled with personality. Because they were initially bred to be “companion” dogs, they are very people-oriented. This means they also dislike being left alone, even for short periods. They’re known for their bat-like ears, and they are not the best swimmers, so keep them on a leash around water!

13. Brittany Spaniel

Brittany Spaniels were bred as gun dogs originally. They make excellent family companions if you can meet their high energy needs. They aren’t for everyone because of their exercise needs and how hyper they can be. The Brittany Spaniel is worth the effort, though. They have an energetic joy for life and enthusiasm for everything they do. They’re simply happy souls, and their irrepressible joy is infectious.

14. Italian Yard Dog

The Italian Yard Dog (or Cane Corso) is an Italian Mastiff breed known as a guardian. It is a devoted companion and an ideal family dog. They are a huge breed, and they are not for every family. The males are known to be dominant, and you will have to assert yourself if you adopt one. Cane Corsos will get lonely if left alone for too long.

15. Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies are known as one of the fastest sled dog dogs, and they can run for hours without tiring. They were bred for extremely cold climates and are ideal partners for walking up snowy mountains. They are friendly and will bark hello to everyone they meet.

Huskies are intelligent and also known for being naughty, and an experienced owner would probably be best. They’re known for their startling blue eyes, making them look almost wolf-like, but they’re generally affectionate animals.

Conclusion

The French love their dogs, which is something we can relate to. Our list has various sizes, appearances, and personalities, and surprisingly, it does not have breeds with French origins. Despite all these differences, they are brought together by the love of the thousands of people who have made them family, from the tiny Cavalier King Charles Spaniel to the mighty Italian Yard Dog.

Related Reads:

• Top 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds in Germany
• 9 Most Popular Dogs in Ireland (with Pictures)

Featured Image Credit: Barthelemy de Mazenod, Unsplash