Labrador retriever retains 'Top Dog' title

NEW YORK, Jan. 16 (UPI) -- The Labrador retriever fetched its 17th consecutive "Top Dog" title when the American Kennel Club released its list of the 10 most popular U.S. dog breeds.

Bulldogs made their first appearance in decades on the annual list at number 10, the AKC said.

"This is the first time the bulldog has made it onto the 10 ten list since 1935," said AKC spokeswoman Lisa Peterson. "This breed appeals to a very wide range of dog lovers so it's no surprise that it is a favorite amongst AKC's 157 breeds. The bulldog is both docile and adaptive, and can thrive in small or large homes. It's an excellent all-around family pet."

Also making the top 10 list were: Yorkshire terrier, German shepherd, golden retriever, beagle, boxer, dachshund, poodle and Shih Tzu.