2011's Most Popular Dogs

Well, it's a little late, but I thought that I'd publish the AKC's 2011 most popular dog list, in case our viewers haven't run by it anywhere else:


10.  Shih Tzu
9.  Poodle
8.  Dachshund
7.  Boxer
6.  Bulldog
5.  Golden Retriever
4.  Beagle
3.  Yorkshire Terrier
2.  German Shepherd
1.  Labrador Retriever

As usual (for 20 years now) the Labrador Retriever tops the list. In fact, this list is an exact copy of the 2010 list. I guess Americans are fairly consistent. You'll notice that the poodle is number 9. Not too shabby, considering that the AKC recognizes 161 distinct breeds!

On another blog, I saw a reader say something like "Why isn't the Bishon on the list? Everyone in my neighborhood has a Bishon." The truth is, these ten breeds have really solidified their place in American culture. While the Bishon is a popular and beloved breed across the country, these breeds have cultivated an almost timeless following that may be extremely difficult to beat for decades (as proven by the dominant Labrador).

We poodle lovers keep our hopes high! Maybe, some day, the poodle (like our lovely miniature red poodles) will be the first to beat out the Labs. Maybe not... Time will tell. Hopefully some breed can do it. Don't get me wrong, Labs are beautiful... but I think the underdogs (pun intended) deserve a chance!

The AKC Poodle Breed Standard

AKC Poodles must be held to a standard of excellence in order to qualify for competition. Luckily, the American Kennel Club has laid out, very directly, how a poodle qualifies for their competitions. Our AKC poodles for sale fall into the miniature and toy categories.

So, when finding a poodle breeder make sure that their poodles meet these standards. Miniatures, such as our beautiful miniature red poodles, must be between 10 and 15 inches at the highest point of the shoulder. Toys must be no more than 10 inches at the highest point of the shoulders.

But, the proportion of shape also plays a key role in your poodle’s qualification. So, the length of the body, from breastbone to rump must equal the length from foot to highest point of the shoulders. So, the correct height alone does not qualify a poodle for competition, but proportion is key. You can find the entire list of qualifications here.

 

Make sure your breeder’s sires and dams meet these qualifications. We are an apricot and red poodle breeder who takes pride in our beautiful dogs and their amazing pups—make sure your breeder does the same! Please contact us for more information on our amazing poodles by phone: 805-748-2095 or email: scarletsfancy@sbcglobal.net