10. Boxer

The Boxer was originally bred to be a guard dog; therefore, they are still considered a medium sized working dog. However, these days the Boxer is most often a family companion as they are highly regarded for their all around friendliness, specifically with children. Boxers are highly trainable, yet they love to play. Because they are very energetic, they also necessitate a great deal of exercise each day. Boxers tend to get between 60 -70 lbs and live for 12 years.

9. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers or “Yorkies” for short are known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners. Yorkies are very small in size, typically 4- 6 pounds. They are accustomed to being good for apartment living, but are very sensitive. With an average level of energy, their exercise needs are moderate although they are known to be very playful. Yorkies tend to live approximately 12- 15 years.

8. Rottweiler

Originally, Rottweilers were bred to assist farmers to drive cattle over long ranges of land and into the market. In fact, before they became guard and companion dogs Rottweilers were even known to pull carts for cattle butchers. Rottweilers, through the years had other jobs including being police dogs and military dogs. “Rotties” are actually very friendly, even with children, are very intelligent, trainable, and playful. They can get between 85- 115 lbs and tend to live between 8 and 11 years.

7. Poodle

Poodles, whether full size or miniature, are one of the most intelligent breeds in all of history. Friendly toward owners and strangers, the Poodle is highly trainable and they are often seen in dog shows, winning “Best in Show” regularly. Poodles are an excellent all around dog in that they are playful, have a moderate energy level, and they do not shed a lot. Many love them for their beautiful fur and the ability to groom them in intricate patterns. Full sized poodles vary in size, from 45-70 lbs, and live between 12 and 15 yrs.

6. French Bulldog

French bulldogs were first bred as “ratters,” dogs who would sniff out and kill rats around the house or homestead. The smaller sized bulldogs quickly became a companion dog and was even known to accompany English lacemakers to France in the 1800s which was the beginning of the “French” part of the miniature bulldog’s name. French bulldogs do not like being alone and are very sensitive, so their owners must have the time to put into loving them. “Frenchies” typically weigh between 16-28 lbs and live from 11 – 14 yrs.

5. Beagle

The Beagle is known as a “hound,” which means that they are often stubborn and they like to howl. Thus, they require a patient and knowledgeable owner. Beagles love to smell, following scents, and still are used as working dogs in tracking small game like rabbits. Beagles live between 10 and 15 years and weigh between 18 and 30 lbs.

4. Bulldog

It’s hard to believe that the squishy faced bulldog was originally bred to drive cattle to market and to compete in a savage sport called bull baiting. Today bulldogs are loving family dogs who get along well with children and need just slight exercise each day. While playful, bulldogs are not high intensity or highly energetic which makes them great for apartment living. Bulldogs tend to grow to 40 or 50 lbs and live between 8 and 12 years.  

3. Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is a very friendly, intelligent, and energetic dog. They have been bred as hunters and working dogs and are the most popular breed for therapy dogs or assistance dogs such as for the blind or deaf. The Golden Retriever is a great athlete and are often seen in agility and obedience competitions. Golden Retrievers weigh between 55 and 75 lbs and live between 10-12 years.

2. German Shepherd

German Shepherds are very popular because of their intelligence, loyalty, and ability to work hard. Known for their courage as police and military dogs, German Shepherds are also excellent guide dogs as well as wonderful family companions. German Shepherds are highly energetic and require a great deal of exercise each day. They typically live for 10 -14 years and grow to between 75 and 95 lbs.

1.  Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are the most popular dog breed in America because they are friendly and intelligent. “Labs” were originally bred to be companions and workers for fishermen, helping to fetch nets, ropes, and fish from the sea. Many are still used as retrievers for hunters of game such as duck, pheasant, and rodents. In addition, Labs are the most popular dog for being assistants for the handicapped. Labrador Retrievers weigh between 55 and 80 lbs and live between 10 and 12 years.