Dogs are a popular choice of pet in the United States, with millions of households keeping them as companions. But just how many dogs are there in the US? And what are the most popular breeds?

How Many Dogs Are Kept as Pets in the US?

Number of Dogs in the US

According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), there are an estimated 89.7 million dogs in the United States. This number has been steadily increasing over the past few years, and dogs are now the most popular pet in the country.

Dogs are found in all 50 states, but they are most common in the Northeast and West Coast regions. The states with the highest dog populations are California, Texas, New York, Florida, and Pennsylvania.

Most Popular Dog Breeds

There are over 200 different breeds of dogs recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), and each breed has its own unique personality and temperament. Some of the most popular dog breeds in the US include:

  • French Bulldog
  • Golden Retriever
  • Labrador Retriever
  • German Shepherd Dog
  • Poodle
  • Bulldog
  • Beagle
  • Dachshund
  • Rottweiler
  • Siberian Husky

Reasons for Dog Ownership

There are many reasons why people choose to own dogs. Some of the most common reasons include:

  • Companionship: Dogs are loyal and affectionate companions that can provide owners with emotional support and reduce feelings of loneliness.
  • Exercise: Dogs need regular exercise, which can help owners get more active and improve their overall health.
  • Protection: Dogs can help protect their owners from intruders and other dangers.
  • Work: Dogs are often used for work purposes, such as herding, hunting, and search and rescue.
  • Love: Dogs are simply lovable creatures that can bring joy and laughter into their owners' lives.

Conclusion

Dogs are a popular choice of pet in the United States, with millions of households keeping them as companions. The number of dogs in the US has been steadily increasing over the past few years, and dogs are now the most popular pet in the country. There are many reasons why people choose to own dogs, including companionship, exercise, protection, work, and love.