CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- It's National Dog Week and Chicagoans sure love dogs!
But which breed is Chicago's favorite? What about America's favorite?
Rover.com, the world's largest network of 5-star pet sitters and dog walkers, released Wednesday "America's Most Popular Dog Breeds of 2019" - its first annual report which ranks the top 20 most popular dog breeds in the country and reveals which breeds are preferred in 40 major cities across the U.S.
Rover also examined how pet parents choose a new companion and the considerations that influence their decision making process. The data revealed leading factors are a dog's size, cost for ongoing care, and disposition. A pet parent's own personal lifestyle was also top of mind for nearly 80 percent of people, including their living situation, family, schedule, and activity level.
"Regardless of size, color, or personality, bringing a dog home and welcoming them into your family is one of the most enjoyable and rewarding experiences in life," said Bill Kong, CMO at Rover, in a statement. "Every dog has an abundance of unconditional love to offer. However, depending on one's living situation, lifestyle, and budget, some prospective pet parents are looking for specific traits. Fortunately, there's a dog for everyone and every home whether you choose to adopt or shop."
The top 20 breeds on the list for America's Most Popular Dog Breeds of 2019 were:
- Mixed Breed
- Labrador Retriever
- Chihuahua
- Golden Retriever
- German Shepherd
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Shih Tzu
- Dachshund
- Boxer
- Goldendoodle
- Poodle
- Beagle
- Australian Shepherd
- Siberian Husky
- Maltese
- American Pit Bull Terrier
- Pug
- French Bulldog
- Pomeranian
- Border Collie
Chicago's top five list differed compared to America's list.
- Goldendoodle (No. 10 in America)
- Beagle (No. 12 in America)
- American Pit Bull Terrier (No. 16 in America)
- Shih Tzu (No. 7 in America)
- French Bulldog (No. 18 in America)
"While different breeds possess inherent characteristics, tendencies, and needs, every dog has the potential to be your new best friend," said Nicole Ellis, certified professional dog trainer on Rover's Dog People Panel, in a statement. "Whether taking your new furry family member on a walk or meeting dogs at the park, getting your dog started on an exercise, socialization, and training regimen as soon as possible will help establish a strong bond between you and your dog while also ensuring that they're confident and happy in their new life with you."
