Across the States: America’s Favorite Dogs

Dogs are more than animals, they're full-blown personalities with fur. Every state has a go-to breed, from pint-size lap lovers to massive couch cuddlers. We mapped which dogs top each state. Scroll on to find your neighborhood’s reigning pup.

Guard Dogs and Loyal Companions

A bunch of states picked dogs built for protection and devotion. The Doberman leads in seven states thanks to brains and fierce loyalty, while Rottweilers top Missouri, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania. Delaware favors the imposing Cane Corso, Maryland and Oregon choose the bullmastiff, and West Virginia prefers the German shepherd. These breeds bring strength and a deep bond when they get steady training.

Gentle Giants and Classic Family Dogs

Big breeds steal hearts just as easily as small ones. Louisiana's favorite is the St. Bernard, Michigan prefers the Newfoundland, and Wisconsin picked the towering Great Dane for its patient, kid-friendly nature. The Labrador still reigns in Maine, and golden retrievers lead in New Hampshire and Vermont. They take up space, but they return it with loyal, unconditional friendship.

Smart, Energetic, Job-Ready Breeds

Some states favor dogs bred to work and think fast. Idaho champions the border collie, Montana backs the Australian shepherd, and North Dakota picks the German shorthaired pointer, all high-energy and incredibly sharp. South Dakota loves the Shetland sheepdog, South Carolina and Utah lean toward the English cocker spaniel, and Minnesota favors the Cavalier King Charles. These dogs thrive on tasks and training, and they reward active owners.

State Spotlights: Maltese, Husky, and More

A few breeds pop up as local stars. The Maltese tops both California and New Jersey, prized for charm and adaptable coats. Connecticut and Washington both pick the Siberian husky for looks and spirit, while Delaware’s choice of the Cane Corso reflects a taste for imposing guardians. Across the country you’ll also find pockets of French bulldog fans, beloved for being relaxed and easygoing.

California and New Jersey: Maltese

This one is so popular, it’s actually the favorite pup of not one, but two states! That’s right—the beautiful and cute Maltese is the top pooch in both California and New Jersey. Why do they love it so much? Well, it might be its super-cute looks, with mega versatility—they can pull off various long or short styles of their fur. Or is it its perky personality? The Maltese is well known for being affectionate and fun-loving. Whatever the secret, it clearly works on these two states!

Colorado: Rhodesian Ridgeback

You might think that with a name like this, this handsome hound would be most popular in a state like Rhode Island! But it’s actually the rocky state of Colorado that claims this lovely pup as its favorite. It’s not hard to see why, with its tall, dignified stature, and beautiful glossy coat. Not only that, but it’s an incredibly intelligent and good-natured breed, easy to train and super loyal. It’s no wonder that Colorado natives love this classy and sophisticated pooch.

Connecticut and Washington: Siberian Husky

Another pooch that’s so popular and beloved that it gets two states, this pretty pup is clearly charming in more ways than one. The Siberian Husky’s gorgeous, sleek coat and dignified demeanor overall make it hard for anyone not to fall in love with it immediately, and the people of Connecticut and Washington are no exception. Even though they can be quite a lot to handle, it’s clear that citizens of these two states are more than up to the challenge.

Delaware: Cane Corso

Next up we have Delaware, whose favorite dog is the magnificent Cane Corso. This dog is well known as an imposing and impressive hound, often used as a guard dog in high-security areas. And it’s not hard to see why—though they are intelligent and respond well to training, they are extremely strong and tough. You don't want to get on the wrong side of them! So it’s no surprise that the people of Delaware like this impressive looking pooch, and opt for bringing them in to protect and serve their families.

Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island: French Bulldog

Funnily enough, the French Bulldog is actually English! Originally bred in England, the owners of this lovely pooch later emigrated to France. Nowadays, French Bulldogs can be found all over the United States, but they are especially popular in Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island! Wow! That’s a lot of states to have you as your favorite! But it’s no surprise when you consider how friendly, relaxed and naturally easygoing this breed really is—they’re perfect for everyone.

Georgia: Bulldog

Another bulldog makes our list, this time as the most popular pet in the state of Georgia. It’s no surprise that we would see this fluffy little guy on here—with their cute faces, happy dispositions and easy to manage lifestyles, who wouldn't want one of these guys as their canine companion? Certainly not anyone from the state of Georgia, as this is one place where you can spot way more than your average numbers of bulldogs. Just look how cute!

Hawaii: Shiba Inu

SHIBA!!! You may recognize this magnificent specimen of dog from its long-reigning and much-loved internet fame, where its sweet and paunchy face sets itself up for a huge variety of wholesome and hilarious memes. But the dog behind the viral sensation is in fact called a Shiba Inu, and enjoys particular off-screen adoration in the state of Hawaii. Originally hailing from Japan, the Shiba Inu is Hawaii’s favorite dog, and it’s no wonder—considering it has an exceptionally easygoing and loving personality.

Idaho: Border Collie

Next up we have the state of Idaho, known for its delicious and plentiful potatoes, and also for something else—their absolute love and devotion for the super-cute and fluffy border collie. It’s pretty impossible not to be in love with a border collie—have you ever seen them? They’re prettiest much the happiest, most enthusiastic, loving dogs you can imagine. Being welcomed home by a border collie is truly what it is to feel loved. They are also thought to be the most intelligent of all dogs, which must make Idahoans pretty clever for electing them as their pet of choice.

Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, and Texas: Doberman Pinscher

Wow! Is this the most popular dog on our list? Quite possibly, as this handsome hound is beloved by no less than seven separate states! Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, and Texas all claim this perfect pooch as their favorite—and it is, of course, the Doberman pinscher. The Doberman is well known as one of the most intelligent and loyal dogs of them all—which is great for the owner, but woe betide any sort of threat or intruder.

Iowa and Virginia: Bichon Frise

Squeal! Look at that adorable super-cute fluffpot! What we wouldn't give to be the person that this cloud of delight is bounding over towards with a true look of joy and love on its face. This is of course the unbearably adorable bichon frise, well-known for being a great option for people with allergies and who don’t mind being constantly and enthusiastically adored. And so it comes as no surprise that the people of Iowa and Virginia both picked this adorable pup as their favorite pooch.

Louisiana: St. Bernard

This lovable gentle giant is famous throughout the world thanks to a variety of iconic characters in books, TV and film. Known to many as the kindly canine governess Nana in the Peter Pan stories, the St. Bernard is of course overwhelmingly best known as the titular character in the classic Beethoven movie franchise. With such a stellar celeb status, it’s no wonder this gorgeous guy is the favorite pet across the state of Louisiana. Their enormous size does make them quite a challenge to control—and feed!—but their adorable personalities makes it more than worth it.

Maine: Labrador

Our next dog is not only the most popular dog in this particular state, but is considered to be in fact the most popular dog in America. This is of course the Labrador, one of the most good-looking and good-natured dogs in the entire canine kingdom. Just look at it! it’s such a graceful and unassuming beauty, happy to be in the company of its beloved owners. And so which state claims this lovely pup as its fave? It is in fact the people of Maine.

Maryland and Oregon: Bullmastiff

Oo-er! Though this is undoubtedly one of the world’s most attractive and handsome dogs, it’s also one of the most imposing. Many of us would love to take home this dog ourselves, but we don't think anyone would want to get on the wrong side of one! This handsome pup is the bullmastiff, and they are well known for being fiercely loyal—emphasis on the fierce. Both Maryland and Oregon claim this guy as their favorite pooch, and it’s not hard to see why.

Michigan: Newfoundland

Another gentle giant on our list, the Newfoundland is one breed that certainly cuts an imposing figure, but is actually one of the friendliest, most laid-back types of dog that exists. They might look big and scary, but in truth they’ve got a heart of gold. Incredibly loving and loyal, you’ve got a friend for life in this gorgeous gargantuan. And the people of Michigan clearly think so too—as they claim this pup as their favorite of the pooch kingdom.

Minnesota: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Next up we have the lovely people of Minnesota, who are known for being so nice and polite, that they’re almost Canadian. And so it comes as no surprise that this state’s favorite furry friend is none other than the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This breed of dog is the princess of the canine world, and loves getting as much attention and pampering as possible. And Minnesota folk being some of the most obliging in the U.S., it makes sense they’d be happy to do it.

Mississippi: Yorkshire Terrier

WE CANNOT GET OVER THE CUTENESS OF THIS DOG. Excuse us while we lie down for a little while just to recover from the much swooning and cooing that has to be done upon setting eyes on this super-sweet and delicate little delight. This lovely pup is the Yorkshire terrier, and its personality is even sweeter than its appearance—being one of the most loving and loyal pets that’s out there. And so it’s no wonder that the people of Mississippi have this lovely pup as their favorite.

Missouri, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania: Rottweiler

Oo-er. This dog is undoubtedly a very popular one, but it’s not always for everybody. This breed is of course the Rottweiler, known for its toughness, roughness and ferocity. Having a Rottweiler on your side is a mighty strength, but it’s not the sort of dog you want to accidentally annoy—otherwise you might find yourself on the receiving end of its considerable force. Nonetheless, this powerful breed is the favorite pooch of not one, not two, but THREE states—that’s right, the people of Missouri, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania all must not be too easily scared, and can see the Rottweiler for the true treasure it is.

Montana: Australian Shepherd

Funnily enough, the Australian shepherd actually originated in England! It is so-called because it apparently traveled through Australia on its way when it first came to the U.S. But the people of America are very happy it did, because it quickly became one of the most popular dogs in our entire nation! And no one loved it more so than the people of the state of Montana, who place the Australian shepherd firmly as their favorite of all pooches. We can certainly see why.

Nebraska: Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

This oddly named dog is so incredibly cute that when we first saw this picture, we uttered a sound that we don’t think has ever been heard before or since in the world of humans. And that’s because this creature is in every way vastly superior to humans, so gloriously adorable is the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier. We wonder if the people of Nebraska are often similarly robbed of the ability to speak thanks to just being overwhelmed by the cuteness of their state’s favorite dog. We wouldn't blame them, really.

Nevada: Pomeranian

Squeal! It’s hard to believe there even is a dog in there, hidden underneath all that sumptuous and super-cute fur. But a dog there is, and it is none other than the super popular and much-loved Pomeranian. This tiny pooch is well-known for having oodles of energy and love to give, which is probably what makes it so popular. Of course, everyone who meets the Pomeranian falls in head over heels for it, but it’s in the state of Nevada that it truly gets the most love.

New Hampshire and Vermont: Golden Retriever

You can’t really have a list of the best-loved dogs and not mention the golden retriever. After all, they are one of the quintessential adorable pups—not only thanks to their luscious, glossy coats, but also for their incredibly good-natured and patient personalities! And so it comes as no surprise that this beautiful creature is claimed as a favorite dog in not one, but two states—New Hampshire and Vermont! Good taste, guys. You’ve got a friend for life in this gorgeous pup.

New Mexico: Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is actually of Mexican origins, so it shouldn't come as too much of a surprise to anyone that out of all the U.S. states, it’s most popular in New Mexico. Is it because the Mexican culture has carried over to the area, and so people have inherited the love of this cute little teeny delicate pooch from their elders? Perhaps, but there’s plenty of new chihuahua owners who have only just discovered the delights of this teeny treasure for themselves.

North Dakota: German Shorthaired Pointer

It’s easy to see why this handsome hound is the most beloved dog of all in the state of North Dakota. Just look at this guy! Not only is he incredibly beautiful, but you can see in his stance how much poise and energy he has. Well-known for their amiable natures and high intelligence, the German shorthaired pointer is the perfect addition to any family, and the people of North Dakota clearly know that better than anyone.

South Carolina and Utah: English Cocker Spaniel

Just look at this shaggy delight of loveliness. The shininess of his coat … the longness of his ears … the implicit natural grace and wisdom of his eyes … he is just truly the epitome of everything we love about dogs. And it’s not just us—in fact, two states agree with us! Both South Carolina and Utah have picked the English cocker spaniel as their favorite pooch. We fully support their decision in choosing their dog priorities.

South Dakota: Shetland Sheepdog

Next up we head off to South Dakota, where they love all dogs, of course—I mean, who doesn't?! But this state in particular has a real affection for one dog breed above all others, and that special species is known as the Shetland sheepdog, or “Sheltie” for short. And it’s no wonder they love it so much—not only is this a super-fit and strong type of dog, it’s also hugely intelligent dog. Shelties are so clever and easy to train that they often serve super expensive jobs such as medical or therapy dogs.

West Virginia: German Shepherd

Not only is this fine specimen truly beautiful in the most breathtaking ways, it’s actually extremely impressive and admirable in a lot more than just its looks. Because the German shepherd regularly tops favorite-dogs on social media, because of its loyalty and versatility. In fact, the American Kennel Club described the German Shephers as “dogkind’s finest all-purpose worker”, thanks to its roles as a police or officer dog. When you think about it like that, it’s no surprise that it’s West Virginia’s favorite pooch.

Wisconsin: Great Dane

We couldn't possibly have a compilation of America’s favorite dogs without mentioning the much-loved and constantly impressive Great Dane. great in both stature and quality, the Great Dane is a true gentle giant. Though they can often cut quite an imposing figure thanks to their massive size and serious-looking faces, they actually can be one of the most loving companions once you gain their trust and train them up properly. And so it’s no surprise that this handsome hound is the favorite pooch throughout the state of Wisconsin.

Wyoming: Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Look at this tiny little treat! His happy little mouth is open in a huge smile, tongue wagging in delight—is his joy merely at his own cuteness? Or does he know that he has made the final spot on our much-loved list? Because this tiny little fella is of course the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, and his loveliness both inside and out is what has made him the number one favorite canine companion among the people of Wyoming. Great taste, people!

What We Can Learn From This

What strikes you first is the sheer variety. Tiny lap dogs sit alongside enormous gentle giants, and proud working breeds stand shoulder to shoulder with meme-famous mutts. That spread says something simple and true: people pick dogs that fit how they live, where they live, and what they love. From coast to coast, the choices tell small stories about families, climates, and lifestyles.

Small Dogs, Big Personalities

Look at the tiny squads in this list and you’ll see how much personality can come in a small package. Maltese, Pug, Chihuahua and Pomeranian owners everywhere clearly know the truth: small dogs are lap-ready and full of character. They demand less space but give huge amounts of affection in return. Perfect for city apartments, or anyone who likes a compact companion.

Gentle Giants Steal Hearts

Then you have the enormous softies. Great Dane, Newfoundland and St. Bernard show up on this list because size does not equal gruffness. These dogs are often clumsy, endlessly patient and wonderful with kids. They may take up a lot of room, but they give back something enormous in return.

Tough Looks, Loyal Hearts

Some breeds on the map have a reputation for being formidable, and yet their loyalty is what people praise most. Cane Corso, Doberman, Rottweiler and German Shepherd all make the list because they combine protectiveness with real devotion. They’re not casual companions, they’re family sentinels. Handle them right and you have one of the most loyal pals imaginable.

Why This List Still Matters

At the end of the day this is more than just breed names on a map. It’s a snapshot of people and places choosing companions that fit their days, their houses and their hearts. If anything here nudges you to visit a local shelter, meet a new breed or give a different dog a chance, then this little tour did its job. Dogs bring out the best in us, no matter where they come from.

Recent Shifts in Dog Popularity

Recent data shows tastes are shifting across the country. The Dachshund has surged in popularity and bumped into higher ranks, while the Poodle has slipped in some national listings. At the same time doodles like Labradoodles and designer mixes are climbing in places such as Colorado and California. All of which helps explain why the state map keeps changing year to year.

The South's New Favorites

Down in the South there are clear new favorites emerging. The Cane Corso has shown strong gains across several Southern states, valued for its presence and loyalty. Major Texas cities are also seeing more interest in giant breeds like the Saint Bernard in recent searches and registrations. Those choices tend to reflect yard space and a taste for guardian-style companions.

Midwest and Northeast Breed Trends

Midwestern states are leaning toward gentle companions more than before. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel shows steady appeal in inland communities for its affectionate, people-focused nature. Meanwhile parts of the Northeast and West are showing growing interest in the Rhodesian Ridgeback, a sleek, active hound that suits outdoor lifestyles. Those regional swings mirror climate, weekend habits, and how much outdoor time families get.

City Scenes, City Tastes

Big cities are developing their own pet scenes that differ from the suburbs. Samoyeds are showing up in urban searches in places like New York City, San Francisco and Seattle, prized for their standout looks. Designer breeds such as the Maltipoo dominate pockets of California, while working breeds like the Belgian Malinois are gaining traction in some coastal metro areas. Urban life clearly shapes which dogs people want around them.

What These Changes Actually Mean

The steady churn in breed popularity shows how lifestyle, space and trends push choices. People are trying new breeds, mixing breeds, and responding to local conditions and online interest. If anything here sparks curiosity, visit a local shelter or meet a few breeds in person before you decide. The map will shift again, and that makes room for new favorites and new friendships.

Fresh numbers, same surprises

Newer data adds some hard counts to what we already noticed. About two thirds of U.S. households own a pet, and roughly 60 million homes have a dog. The pet industry is spending-heavy and poised to keep growing, which helps explain why interest in new breeds and designer mixes is rising. Those dollars show people are treating pets like family, and that shapes what breeds get searched for and bought.

Which breeds are climbing fast

Some breeds are clearly on the move. The French bulldog and several designer mixes have surged in popularity in many urban and suburban pockets, while the Dachshund has bumped up in search interest and rankings. Poodles and other older favorites have softened in some lists as buyers try new crosses and compact breeds that fit modern life. That shift is why the state map keeps changing year to year.

Regional patterns still matter

States keep sticking with what fits local life. Chihuahuas dominate a swath of southern states and are especially common in places where small dogs fit apartment and city living. At the same time, Labradors and other classic family breeds remain top choices across many inland and rural states. The map shows clear regional tastes, from tiny lap dogs to big outdoor companions.

Why these shifts are happening

Lifestyle is the main driver. Urban living pushes people toward smaller, low-maintenance breeds, while bigger yards and outdoor hobbies favor larger working breeds. Pop culture and social media are nudging tastes too, especially for photogenic or meme-ready dogs. Health concerns and interest in hypoallergenic or hybrid dogs also shape buyer choices now.

If you’re thinking about getting a dog

Use the map as a starting point, not a rulebook. Meet breeds in person, spend time at shelters, and consider space, activity level and long-term costs before you commit. Trends will change, but a good match between dog and daily life pays off for years. And if anything here sparks curiosity, visit a local rescue and see which pup wins your heart.