Most Popular Dog Breeds In The Twin Cities
Why is that? What dogs do you see around the Twin Cities? Let us know in the comment section!
Labrador Retriever
The king of dogs in the United States and certainly in Minnesota. They are easily the most popular dog going. Labs are loyal, loving and affectionate making them great family dogs. Trained and prized for their hunting abilities, it should be no shock that labs would top the list of popular dogs in Minnesota!
German Shepherd
A popular working dog. Whether it's a police K9 unit or just protecting the house, German Shepherds are very protective dogs. They are also cheerful, obedient and always willing to learn. German Shepherds are great dogs as long as the owner is willing to be a strong leader for them.
Golden Retriever
Minnesota Golden Retriever Rescue
A dog with size and behavior that is very much like Labs, Goldens are wonderful family dogs and easily trained for hunting. Their long-haired golden coats are water-resistant but do require a little grooming attention.
Siberian Husky
Minnesota Siberian Husky Rescue
Another large-breed dog that Minnesotans are fond of. Should it be surprising that we have a large number of "Siberian" named animals in Minnesota? This is another good family dog. They are fun-loving and energetic. So make sure you have a little room for them to play! This is a dog that loves a little hard work, especially in the cold!
Pit Bull
This category actually contains a few different breeds but it seems logical to combine them. Pit Bulls are dogs that come with a reputation and not a very good one either. The minute you see one, you know its a powerful animal. But these are not "people hating" dogs. They have a strong desire to please their owners and an even stronger desire to protect them. Easily trained, this is a great dog that is fine around families and children. Pit Bulls come with the bad rep but it's the owner that should. Good training equals good dogs!
Beagle
The first smaller dog on the list from the area that produced the world's most popular Beagle (Charles Schultz's Snoopy)! Beagles are sturdy little dogs that were bred to be hunters. Beagles are curious and definitely have a mind of their own. But they are also terrific around kids and always happy to see you. Also known for their "howl" or bark which sounds like a loud cry.
Boxer
The first thing I always notice about Boxers is the skinny, athletic body and the square, thick head. They look like they could run forever. And Boxers certainly don't lack for energy. They are almost clownish they way they play. A perfect dog to take with if you're a runner as this dog needs constant exercise.
Pug
About a year ago, my girlfriend adopted a Pug. Until then, I hadn't really noticed them. Now? I see them everywhere! If you want a playful dog that will probably make you laugh at how goofy it is, this is the one for you. They can easily handle apartment life or a home without much room. They also have never met a bowl of food they don't like. Pugs are perfect for kids too.
-Lindsey Peterson is the WCCO Radio Assistant Program Director.