The 20 Most Popular Dog Breeds From Your Childhood

Back in the '50s and '60s, the Beagle was in the top five most popular dogs, year after year. It’s easy to understand why: With their big floppy ears and pleading hazel eyes, Beagles are happy, friendly and curious dogs. This energetic hound needs tons of playtime, and while they may not on top of the list nowadays, they regularly rank in the top five most popular breeds.

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The popularity of these dogs began to climb in the late '50s. By the mid-60s, Poodles had claimed the number one place and held the spot for nearly 20 years! Today, they remain in the top 10. In case you think the classic Poodle “continental clip” makes them look like pushovers, think again. They’re brilliant, well-muscled athletes who need tons of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them content.

The sheer beauty of the German Shepherd makes it evident why these dogs have ranked in the top five most popular breeds for decades. The breed is agile, muscular, and courageous, which is why they have a long history as working dogs in the military, law enforcement, and as service dogs. As one of the most intelligent breeds, they need a savvy pet parent. For roughly the last decade, they’ve been ranked as the second most popular breed.

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These low-to-the-ground dynamos were ranked as one of the top five most popular breeds in the '50s, '60s and into the mid-70s. Since then, they’ve remained mostly in the top 10. They’re smart watchdogs and a teeny bit stubborn, but their lively expression and big personality is why they remain perennial favs.

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Speaking of tiny-but-mighty, the Chihuahua takes the prize. The breed began its climb to the top in in the '50s and '60s, peaking in the top 10 until about the '70s. Not exceeding six pounds, the breed maintains a strong following of devoted pet parents for its confidence and sassiness. But a word of caution: Though teeny, Chihuahuas requires plenty of training or you may begin to wonder just who is in charge of whom?

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This friendly and obedient breed grew in popularity in the mid-60s, staying in the top 10 from the 1970s to the late '80s. These sturdy little dogs have darling beards and eyebrows that give them personality-plus. Originally farm dogs and ratters, Miniature Schnauzers are trainable companions that love to play yet still make great watchdogs.

With a gorgeous mahogany or chestnut coat and super-model long legs, the Irish Setter is a swift, beautiful dog with an appealing personality. The breed became particularly popular in the '7os, staying in the top 10 for most of the decade. Its easygoing and sweet nature make this dog a wonderful family member or an eager-to-please sporting companion.

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Sleek, muscular, brilliant and protective are the marks of this amazing breed. Rising quickly in popularity in the '70s, the breed is known as one of the world’s finest protection dogs. It’s remained in the top 20 in popularity. Doberman Pinschers are known for having an uncanny gift for sensing friend from foe, but they love their people intensely and will show a sense of humor if they trust you.

The Cocker Spaniel is gentle dog with an endearing mischievous streak. Its warm, lovey-dovey eyes make you melt instantly. The breed remained in the top 10 in popularity for most of the '60s and '70s, rising to number one in the '80s and remaining there for most of the decade. Our love affair with the breed may date back to the Mayflower’s landing in New England in 1620, when records indicate one of two dogs on board was some type of spaniel.

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The Labrador Retriever gained popularity in the '70s and has been the number one most popular breed since 1991! Anyone who’s been loved by one knows why: Their sweet faces, friendly demeanor, and outgoing personality make them awesome companions. Generally speaking, they get along with everybody! They require loads of exercise, such as swimming and playing fetch, because they’re athletes at heart.

Goldens entered the top 10 in the '70s and remaining there to this day. It’s no mystery why these gentle dogs have stayed on top: They’re intelligent, devoted, and obedient, which makes them well-suited for families or as search-and-rescue or service dogs. One of their most appealing qualities is a tendency to retain their silly puppy-like playfulness into adulthood.

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Shetland Sheepdogs, also known as Shelties, are energetic, agile, and bright dogs who excel at obedience, agility and herding. Shelties were in the top 20 most popular dogs in the '60s and '70s and moved into top 10 status in the '80s. Sensitive and affectionate, the breed is good at reading attitudes, but they’re reserved toward strangers, making them excellent watchdogs.

Yorkshire Terriers started climbing into the top 20 most popular breeds in the '70s, where they remain today. Yorkies may look dainty and elegant, but they’re tough little dogs who won’t take "no" for an answer easily. Their self-importance makes them irresistible (just don’t tell them they weigh only 7 pounds).

Rottweilers became popular in the '80s, quickly reaching top five status and staying at the number two rank for much of the '90s. They’re powerful dogs descended from the mastiffs of the Roman legions, so they benefit from proper socializing and breeding. They are fierce guardians, but they adore their families and show a goofy side to those closest to them. Rotties also believe the best place to cuddle is on your lap!

The legendary Collie is one of the most easily recognized breeds in the world (who doesn’t know and love Lassie?). The breed was one of the top 10 most popular dogs from 1940 until the early '70s, remaining one of the top 20 breeds until the '90s. This elegant, intelligent herder is a devoted family dog, and they thrive on exercise, training, and companionship.

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Pomeranians began growing in popularity in the mid-70s and reached the top 10 by the mid-90s. Their foxy faces and alert, perky nature make them doting companions. At somewhere between 3 to 7 pounds, they pack a lot of big-dog personality in a tiny package. They’re inquisitive and smart, so make sure they’re exercised and busy to keep them out of trouble.

The Pekingese enjoyed the height of its popularity in the '50s and '60s, rising to the number six position in the '60s. Although it’s not nearly as popular as it once was, Pekingese are still in the top 100 most popular breeds. With its lion’s mane and large dark eyes, the breed has a rolling gait that’s irresistible. Bred to live in palaces in ancient China, Pekes have independent streaks, but they develop tight bonds with their favorite people.

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Boxers started to grow in popularity in the late '80s and have since remained in the top 20 most popular breeds. They’re powerful dogs with a lot of energy, and sometimes boxers have their own ideas about what they want to do and when they want to do it. Lots of training and exercise (and patience from pet parents!) pay off. Despite their heritage as hunters, Boxers are lovers, not fighters.

Low to the ground with a mournful gaze and long, velvety ears, the Bassett Hound was one of the top 20 most popular dogs during the late '50s and '60s. The breed is a wee bit stubborn, especially on the trail, where his incredible scenting ability is second only to the Bloodhound. But at home he’s a mild, pleasant companion whose patience and low-key charm is undeniable.

The Bulldog’s rolling gait, furrowed brow and pushed-in nose make him instantly recognizable. This docile breed is known for its tenacity and loyalty. Bulldogs were one of the top 20 most popular breeds during the '40s and '50s, slipping in popularity in the '60s but rocketing to top 10 status in recent years. They need regular exercise and a healthy diet to stay fit and trim (don’t we all!), but be careful with them in hot, humid weather because the breed’s short snout may cause labored breathing.

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