It is the first time that the French bulldog has risen to the top of the popularity ranking held annually by the American Kennel Club (AKC), an organization defending purebred dogs founded in 1884.
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The list of winners for the year 2022, presented in a statement, places the French bulldog ahead of the Labrador retriever, precisely the opposite of the positions of the two breeds in the previous year.
Behind them, the preferred breeds were the golden retriever, the German shepherd and the poodle. “The Adorable Labrador” it had been at the top of the list for 31 years.
Rising from fourteenth place in 2012 to the top ten years later, “the French bulldog has seen its popularity grow over the years and for good reason: they are playful, versatile, loyal and sociable,” said Gina DiNardo, president of the organization.
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The popularity ranking established annually by the AKC is based on the number of dogs registered for each dog breed. In 10 years, the number of registered French bulldogs grew by 1.000%.
French bulldogs, like their English cousins and pugs, have muzzles curtos, which can lead to respiratory problems and other health complications.
The Dutch agriculture minister declared in January that he would try to ban the ownership of animals that “suffer because of their appearance.”
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The Netherlands banned the breeding of pets affected by their appearance in 2014, but some animals are still traded illegally or purchased abroad.
French bulldogs also made headlines in 2021 when the pop star Lady Gaga had her two dogs stolen while a dog walker was taking them for a walk.
The three thieves were captured and arrested and the dogs were returned to the singer.
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(With AFP)
