4 Most Beloved Dog Breeds Of 2020

Dogs... can't live with them, can't live without them. They're the most popular pet worldwide and not without a reason.

A dog's sense of loyalty for its owner is a remarkable thing and every owner claims their pooch's love is the kind you can't get from anyone else. Thus, they make great companions and fierce guards.

Now, I'm more of a cat person, but the above reasons are good enough to consider getting your own little puppy. But it's easy to get indecisive and lost in a sea full of choices.

They're too cute, too gorgeous, too much with their happy little tails and smiling faces! So, that's why I've compiled this list.

Here are the top 4 best and most beloved dog breeds The American Kennel Club has declared for 2020.

4. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are a gorgeous medium-to-large long-haired breed that can come in either light or dark shade or regular gold colour. Golden retrievers have no markings and can live up to 12 years.

Quite a long dedication is required right there. But who can say no to that happy face?

Golden Retrievers are an intelligent, playful, and affectionate breed that can be a perfect addition to any family household. They're actually one of the best-behaved breeds out there.

However, they aren't too good at being left alone and prefer being around their favourite human. But I'm sure the feeling will be mutual if you decide to get this pooch.

That being said, as a breed with the highest IQ they're easy to train. So, surely you'll be able to teach them to wait a minute or twenty while you get your shopping.

Additionally, if you don't like dogs that bark a lot this may be the perfect choice for you. One of the Golden Retriever's characteristics is that they're rather quiet and only bark to alert you of potential danger.

On the other hand, the main problem to consider when getting a golden retriever is their health. In a nutshell, it's not the greatest and a good idea would be to insure your pup.

Golden Retrievers are prone to ailments such as hip and elbow dysplasia, eye problems, and skin diseases. Some of these illnesses can lead to comorbidities such as arthritis.

They're also high-maintenance dogs, requiring daily exercise, brushing, and affection. All of these are very important factors to take into account when considering this pet.

Even so, the Golden Retriever is a commonly found breed in families with children. This is because they're very good with kids and are one of those gentle giants your son or daughter are bound to adore.

3. German Shepherd

The German Shepherd is another medium to large breed that'll make a great addition to your household. They live up to 13 years and come in a variety of colours.

PetHelpful lists the following to be the most common ones: black, grey, sable, black and tan, blue, red and black, black and silver, and brown (liver). When it comes to coat length, German Shepherds can have short, medium, or long ones and are undercoated.

So make sure you pick the right brush for your canine companion. Their coat will need proper care depending on its length. If you've ever owned a pet that required to be brushed before then you know all too well the pain of grooming them with the wrong brush.

Undoubtedly, the German Shepherd is the first breed that comes to mind when you think of a good guard dog. These are the breeds we're used to seeing as rescuers or to help police find criminals.

Indeed, they're courageous, affectionate, child-friendly, and one of the most intelligent dog breeds. So, if you need a caring protective addition to the family, they're your go-to dog.

However, the reason why they're often used as guard dogs is because of their aggression. If trained correctly, they'll be using that aggression only when it's necessary to protect their owner.

To be completely honest, when I was a child, a friend's German Shepherd protected me fiercely from strangers. Even though he didn't know who I was, but I assume he was trained to protect any child, so... there's a cool little example for you.

So, make sure to educate yourself on their behaviour. Without proper training, a German Shepherd can attack a person, so teach it to channel that aggression on intruders.

But just like the previous breed, German Shepherds hate being alone and would rather play with their favourite human. However, they're also easy to train, so start teaching it how to tame that barking habit of theirs!

Now, for their health. In contrast to the Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds are generally healthy. But just like any other breed, they've got a couple of illnesses they're prone to.

PetPlan writes that the issues you're likely to encounter are ones with their intestine, bloating, spleen tumors, hip, and elbow dysplasia, and anal furunculosis. Although their health is generally good, these conditions can be costly to treat, so make sure you insure your future guard dog.

2. French Bulldog

French Bulldogs or Frenchies are small to medium breeds that can live as long as 14 years. Their adorable wrinkly faces and stocky build are a guaranteed way to win over anyone's heart.

But beware! If anyone's requesting more than $7000 and their Frenchies aren't from a top-quality breed line, it's better you find someone else.

The website Happy French Bulldog lists the following colours this breed can have: fawn, white, brindle (including in combination of white), and cream. Naturally, Frenchies can appear in any combination of those colours. They can also have many patterns and marks such as masks, patches, and spots.

The color combinations are endless and you're bound to find a large variety in their looks. In my opinion, that's one of the things that's so interesting about French Bulldogs. So many options!

Despite their name, these little guys were bred in Britain to serve as mini Bulldogs. But were often used as companions on trips to France. Hence, the name French Bulldogs.

They're full of love to give and are often used in shows. They adapt well to living on their own and their trainability makes them a good breed for those who have never owned a dog before.

When training a Frenchie you may encounter some trouble here and there as they'd rather play. As adorable as it is, this can pose a difficulty when trying to get them to obey, so keep being persistent.

Do keep an eye on them when first introducing them to your child as they may get nervous. But they're not a threat to your kids and will eventually, get used to them.

Generally speaking, a Frenchie's health could be better. In an article posted on Canine Medicine and Genetics, it's stated that French Bulldogs are prone to problems with breathing, spinal and skin diseases along with eye and ear infections, and diarrhea. Definitely insure your furry friend if you're keen on getting this breed.

If you're wondering whether French Bulldogs fart... yes. Yes, they do.

They've delicate stomachs, so do be careful with their food and don't switch it up too often. Also, wash their folds properly because oftentimes the smell is actually coming from there. Bottom line: be gentle.

Despite the above issues, this purebred dog can be found in shelters too. So if you'd rather adopt a Frenchie, head to your local rescue center. They're bound to have this bundle of joy.

1. Labrador

Last but not least, Labradors, also known as Labs. These adorable guys are a medium to the large-sized dog breed that can live as long as 12 years.

We're used to the famous trio of black, brown, and yellow Labs. But they can also come in red, white, and silver shades too.

Some people even believe their temperament is determinable by the color as well. So black Labs are calm and patient, yellow labs are kind, brown labs are wild. 

Labradors hold the title for America's most beloved dog breed not only in 2020 but even in 2019 and 2021. This shouldn't come off as a surprise, if they're used as service dogs then they clearly have traits that make them outstanding in such a responsible job.

They're very intelligent and will obey commands instantly 95% of the time. As the saying goes, Labradors are born half-trained.

Don't know about you, but that's a pretty good deal for me. I can see more and more why these dogs are considered the US's top favourites.

Historically, Labs were fisherman's dogs, helping them carry and pull their hauls. Hence, their helpful nature ensured they'd be favoured to accompany humans.

Labradors love, love, love to be with their human and you leaving to buy groceries translates as "I no longer need you in my life." Perhaps, this is why they've been chosen as our furry helpers. They need us just as much as we need them, if not more.

In addition to not handling your absence well, they're extremely friendly and will be great companions in your family. Their intelligence makes them quick learners, albeit loud ones.

They're very expressive, be it either whining, growling, or barking. But it's all done only to get your attention and communicate with you. They're trying to tell you how they feel.

In general, labs are a healthy breed but have their own predispositions. PDSA states this breed is prone to obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia, and eye problems that can lead to blindness.

So don't get tempted to reward your lab with an extra treat as adorable as it may act. They really can't tell when they've had enough and if you put food in front of them they'll happily eat it. Yes, even if they've already eaten five minutes ago.

All in all, they're a very loving and playful breed that will bring much joy and happiness to your family. They're undoubtedly America's sweetheart.

Hopefully, this list has been helpful to decide what breed will suit your lifestyle best. However, this is only a rough guide, the final decision is ultimately up to you.

If you can afford to get one of each then who am I to stop you? Grab your loving dogs and be free!