The 5 Most Popular Dog Breeds in New York State

Australian Shepherd

This beloved herding dog of medium size comes in a variety of colors such as black, blue merle, red, and red merle. Occasionally, the coats of Australian shepherds contain a mixture of these colors. Additionally, white and tan markings augment their coats.

As their name might suggest, these canines were originally bred as herding dogs on Australian cattle farms. Therefore, they possess boundless energy levels. Moreover, dog breeders label these animals as friendly, highly intelligent, and easy to train.

The Aussie, as it is sometimes informally known, requires a significant degree of exercise to counteract its energy level and prevent the dog from getting bored and possibly getting into mischief. However, this fits perfectly with families or individuals who enjoy going for long walks in urban, suburban, and rural areas.

The dog’s average life expectancy ranges from 12 to 15 years. For the most part, Aussies enjoy good health. That said, they do stand at risk of experiencing certain problems as they age like hip dysplasia and various eye issues.

Overall, breeders and dog lovers alike credit the Australian shepherd’s popularity to its playful nature and, above all, its loyalty and affection toward family.

French Bulldog

Few small dogs enjoy the popularity that the French bulldog holds. Typically, they stand about one foot tall and weigh less than 30 pounds.

The adoration people display for this dog begins with its unique appearance. The breed’s coat comes in many different colors including brindle, white, cream, fawn, black, blue, and chocolate. Furthermore, markings of black, white, spotted, tan, and brindle enhance their look.

Arguably, the French bulldog’s face is its most distinguishing feature. A solid percentage of bulldog parents love the wrinkles characteristic of the breed. Moreover, this type of bulldog’s pointed ears set it apart from other varieties.

Numerous dog lovers get taken in by the Frenchie, as this canine is known in certain circles, because of its laid-back approach to life. They typically display an even keel and rarely bark. That said, French bulldogs love to play and are quite trainable. Also, despite their lack of barking, they possess a keen alertness to sound making them great watchdogs.

Frenchies do not require much exercise. However, they will not shy away from a nice walk.

The usual lifespan for these canines falls in the 10 to 12-year window. Certain health issues impact this breed. The shape of their face makes breathing difficult at times, especially during hot and humid weather. Moreover, skin allergies commonly strike this type of dog. However, with proper management, these conditions can be controlled.

The French bulldog’s calm nature meshes well with any type of dog owner. Moreover, they show great patience with kids, as well as strangers and other dogs, making them excellent family pets.

Golden retrievers continue to rank as one of New York State’s most popular dogs. These larger canines stand nearly two feet tall and weigh between 55 and 75 pounds depending on their gender. Goldens, as these dogs are commonly nicknamed, possess the famous shiny, golden coat. The golden color comes in light and dark variations.

The animals always rank among the top breeds in terms of intelligence and trainability. Additionally, people love their overly friendly, playful, and approachable demeanors.

Goldens possess muscular builds. Therefore, pet parents must make sure that they receive adequate amounts of exercise. Fortunately, however, most goldens love playing fetch and going on long walks.

For the most part, golden retrievers enjoy lifespans lasting between 10 and 12 years. That said, this breed may be at risk of developing physical conditions like hip dysplasia, eye disorders, and certain heart ailments. Moreover, ear infections often occur in goldens. Therefore, veterinarians should check for these problems during routine examinations.

Some attribute a significant degree of the golden retriever’s popularity to their beauty. Few animals display more grace and elegance than these dogs. Moreover, they make great family dogs demonstrating a good nature with kids, strangers, and their fellow canines.

Labrador Retrievers

Like their golden cousins, labrador retrievers, sometimes abbreviated as labs, receive adoration for their outgoing nature and zest for life. That said, labs are slightly larger and heavier than goldens standing a little more than two feet and weighing anywhere from 55 to 80 pounds. The coats of these canines come in three distinct colors such as black, yellow, and chocolate. Occasionally, white markings adorn their coats.

Labs demonstrate high intelligence making them easy to train. Moreover, they so yearn to please their owners, which renders the training process more fun and manageable. Additionally, they possess great affection for their loved ones.

A lab’s energy levels necessitate that they obtain significant physical activity to maintain strong bones and muscles, as well as a healthy weight. Luckily, much like their golden cousins, they love playing ball, taking long walks, going on runs, and even swimming.

Usually, labs live from 11 to 13 years. Though they enjoy a reputation as a healthy breed, certain genetic heart, muscular, eye, and physical issues must be tested for. In addition, dogs of this size stand at risk of developing a potentially serious digestive concern called bloat. Pet parents should discuss possible risk factors with their dog’s veterinary care provider and learn the signs.

Labs display an infectious sense of affection and loyalty. Furthermore, they are fiercely devoted to their families. Moreover, their boundless energy makes them a joy to be around.

Shiba Inu

This relatively small dog has gained significant popularity among New York residents in recent times. It typically stands about one foot tall, weighs anywhere from 17 to 23 pounds, and possesses coat colors like black and tan, cream, red, and sesame with white markings.

The shiba inu was originally bred in Japan as a hunting dog and own roots going back many centuries. Though small in stature, this dog which was only introduced in the United States over the last six decades displays a spirit matched by few other canines. Additionally, owners view these animals as friendly, smart, and adaptable to whatever surroundings they are placed in.

These dogs do not require a great deal of exercise. However, they do enjoy walks. Moreover, they possess a notable amount of muscles for a small dog. Therefore, a certain degree of physical stimulation will be required to keep the dog fit and trim.

Typically, this breed enjoys solid health. However, allergies often become problematic. Usually, these immune system reactions strike the dog’s skin resulting in irritation and itching. Additionally, they are uncommonly impacted by various genetic-related eye conditions and physical deformities.

Owners consider the shiba inu a beautiful, loyal family dog equipped with an uncanny knack for adapting to various environments.