The German shepherd continued to make strides in terms of popularity in 2009, but still trails the perennially popular Labrador retriever as America’s favorite dog breed. In fact, this is the 19th year that Labs have won the hearts of Americans, according to 2009 American Kennel Club registration statistics.

“Labs have been America’s top dog for nearly two decades due to their loyal and gentle nature,” said Lisa Peterson, an AKC spokesperson.

German shepherds aren’t taking the challenge lying down. Parlaying the attention they have received as a result of security efforts at home and abroad, they overtook Yorkshire terriers to gain second place in the annual list, she said.

An American favorite since the time of Rin Tin Tin, the German shepherd was the No. 1 breed in the 1920s, but then slipped in popularity until after World War II.

“Hailed as the world’s leading police, guard and military dog, this energetic and fun-loving breed is a loyal family pet, ideal companion and dependable K9 partner when duty calls,” Peterson said.

Of course, the German shepherd isn’t the only breed Americans will spot at airport or train terminals. Labradors, golden retrievers and beagles are used by law enforcement, military and homeland security personnel for tasks ranging from border patrol to bomb and narcotics detection to search and rescue.

These breeds were developed for various hunting or herding tasks, but the traits that made them so effective at those jobs, such as strong scenting ability of the beagle, the eager-to-please attitude of the golden retriever and Labrador, and the bold nature of the German shepherd, make them effective in their careers today.

“Despite advances in security technology, the canine and its unique abilities remain a valued resource for the military and law enforcement agencies that work to keep us safe,” said Peterson. “The loyalty, intelligence and hardworking nature which make these breeds desirable as K9 partners in the field also contribute to their status as valuable companions in the hearts of dog owners around the nation.” [April 2010 PET AGE]

Top Dogs of 2009
A few dog breeds have leapt to newfound popularity since 2000. The bulldog, for example, jumped from No. 21 to No. 7 in terms of dogs registered by the American Kennel Club, while the French bulldog went from No. 73 to No. 24.

Breeds used by law enforcement and the armed forces also have made modest gains, including the Belgian Malinois (from No. 95 to No. 81), the border collie (from No. 71 to No. 52) and the bloodhound (from No. 51 to No. 43).

The Portuguese water dog was on the rise even before President Obama’s family selected one as a pet—moving from No. 80 to No. 60 over the course of the decade. However, the breed has moved up four spots in the year since Bo moved into the White House.

Here are the top 10 dog breeds in the United States, according to the AKC:
1. Labrador retriever
2. German shepherd
3. Yorkshire terrier
4. Golden retriever
5. Beagle
6. Boxer
7. Bulldog
8. Dachshund
9. Poodle
10. Shih Tzu [April 2010 PET AGE]