Dog breeds are among the most-searched items on DogTime.com. Here are the top pure- and mixed-dog breeds readers (that’s you) were looking for in 2013. Almost half of the dogs from the 2012 top 10 list were replaced this year, so the number-one choice may surprise you. Here they are — in ascending order:
10. Maltese: One of the most ancient toy breeds, this small pooch is well suited to condo or apartment living; he can also suffer from separation anxiety if kept away from his owner. (2012 rank: 26)
9. Labradoodle: Part Poodle, part Labrador Retriever, this hybrid is a versatile therapy and family dog, who was bred for his hypoallergenic characteristics. (2012 rank: 29)
8. Chihuahua: The world’s smallest dog, these pint-sized pooches love nothing more than being close to their owners; although they have big personalities, they’re small dogs who can injure easily. (2012 rank: 24)
7. Boxer: Originally bred to be a guard dog, this working pooch is renowned for his undying love and loyalty to his family…in addition to possessing a playful, clownish side. (2012 rank: 28)
6. Maltese Shih Tzu: A cross of a Maltese and Shih Tzu, this pooch is one of the few “designer dogs” without Poodle heritage; his social nature makes him an excellent family pet. (2012 rank: 6)
5. Bichon Frise: Often mistaken for a Poodle, the Bichon is almost always white, with black eyes and a black nose, and he’s ready to play — with a gentle and affectionate demeanor. (2012 rank: 4)
4. Shih Tzu: Bred to be a companion, the pint-sized ST is good-natured and friendly; the distinctive way his facial hair grows in all directions has been described as a flower with the dog’s nose as the center. (2012 rank: 5)
3. Labrador Retriever: Called America’s favorite dog, the Lab does it all: hunter’s companion, field retriever, show dog, working dog…but overall, he’s a loyal friend and companion. (2012 rank: 9)
2. Maltipoo: An excellent therapy dog, this Maltese–Poodle hybrid is an excellent choice for timid or first-time owners, as he’s easy to train and does well in homes with children and the elderly. (2012 rank: 1)
1. Cockapoo: The original “designer dog,” this Cocker Spaniel–Poodle mix is an affectionate, utterly adorable pint-sized pooch with a face that could melt a heart of stone. (2012 rank: 2)
For more of our year in review, please see DogTime’s top 10 dog news stories of 2013.
Interested in cats? Take a look at the top 10 most popular cats of 2013 on CatTime.com.
