This Breed is America’s Favorite for the 26th Straight Year–But, What’s Illinois’ Favorite?

Twenty-six years in a row. If this dog breed were a sports team, we'd be using the word "dynasty."

The Labrador Retriever has once again been named as America's Favorite Dog Breed by none other than the venerable American Kennel Club:

While the Labrador Retriever continues its reign as America’s dog, the Rottweiler has been slowly but surely rising up the list over the past decade. The confident, loyal and loving Rottie was the eighth most popular breed in 2016, its highest ranking since landing at number two in 1997. The Rottweiler has risen nine spots over the past decade and is poised for a comeback. “The Labrador Retriever has a strong hold on the top spot, and doesn’t show signs of giving it up anytime soon,” said AKC Vice President Gina DiNardo. “The Lab is such a versatile dog that it’s no wonder it makes a great companion for a variety of lifestyles. Keep your eye on the Rottweiler, though. It’s been quietly winning hearts over the past decade.”

Let's take a look at the rest of the list, and see if Illinois' favorites match up with the rest of the country.

America's favorites are:

1. Labrador Retriever
2. German Shepherd
3. Golden Retriever
4. Bulldog
5. Beagle

Here in Illinois, our favorites are:

1. Labrador Retriever
2. French Bulldog
3. German Shepherd
4. Golden Retriever
5. Rottweiler

If you don't want to go for popular, maybe you want intelligence:

Or, perhaps intelligence is overrated. Let's just go for friendly:

Gotta go. I'm heading home to break the bad news to my Weimaraner, Lucy. She's going to be miffed about not making the list. Again.