10 Most Popular Dog Breeds in the USA

A cute and curious breed, dog lovers know this tenacious little hunting dog. Like most hounds, hounds come in three color varieties: tricolor, red and white, and lemon. Beginning in the 1500s, English hunters used hounds to hunt small animals like foxes and rabbits. Snoopy, Charlie Brown's dog in the Peanuts comics, is perhaps the most famous hound in pop culture.

Known for its stocky build and broad, wrinkled face, the Bulldog is one of the most recognizable dog breeds. Like most terriers, Bulls were bred in the UK. So the name of the breed has English roots. "Bull" means "bull", which fought in the arenas participating in the selection of the Bulldog breed. Before the 1835 ban, dog-baiting was popular in England. Families value Bulldogs for their relaxed temperament and minimal need for grooming and exercise. The breed's heavy top and short snout make them prone to overheating in hot weather.

Today, the Yorkshire Terrier is an indicator of the status of its owner, as it is considered an expensive dog, but its status was not always so. In 19th century England, Yorkies had important rat-hunting jobs in garment factories. They later became status symbols for English high society. They rarely weigh more than 7 pounds and are known for their long, silky blue-brown coat.