30-Year No.1 Labrador Retriever Drops to 2nd Place
Causes Include Increase in Single-Person Households and Suitability for Urban Raising
Golden Retriever Ranks 2nd... Shepherd and Poodle Follow
In the United States, the French Bulldog has surpassed the Labrador Retriever to become the most popular pet dog.
According to CNN on the 21st (local time), the American Kennel Club (AKC), a U.S. dog registration organization, announced on the 15th (local time) that citing the 2022 registration statistics, the French Bulldog overtook the Labrador Retriever, which had been the most popular pet dog for over 30 years, to claim the number one spot.
Following the French Bulldog were the ▲Labrador Retriever ▲Golden Retriever ▲Shepherd ▲Poodle, among others.
French Bulldog, Suitable for Urban Living as It Does Not Require Frequent Exercise
The French Bulldog has steadily climbed the AKC rankings over the past several decades. It ranked 14th in 2012 and jumped to 2nd place in 2021. Then, last year, its registration rate soared by more than 1000% compared to ten years ago, securing the top position.
The AKC stated, "The French Bulldog is an intelligent and small breed that can adapt to various lifestyles," adding, "It is a breed loved by everyone from single-person households to large families."
It is also considered a good breed for city living because it does not bark much and does not require as frequent exercise as large dogs.
Consider 'Health' Issues Thoroughly Before Adoption
However, experts advise that there are many points to be cautious about when raising brachycephalic breeds like the French Bulldog.
The French Bulldog is a result of breed improvement through crossing the British Bulldog and French Terrier breeds, which makes it prone to genetic diseases such as eye disorders and skin fold dermatitis.
The British Veterinary Association explained in a 2017 statement, "Brachycephalic breeds with flat faces can suffer from health problems such as breathing difficulties, eye ulcers, and spinal deformities."
They also strongly recommended, "We strongly advise against acquiring brachycephalic breeds like the French Bulldog."
Dr. Carrie Stepaniak, a veterinarian from Glendale, Wisconsin, also told the media in an interview, "People who want to raise French Bulldogs should properly understand the breed and undergo health checkups."
Crimes Surrounding French Bulldogs Are Also Occurring
Meanwhile, the French Bulldog has gained fame as a pet chosen by Hollywood stars recently, with prices reaching up to several thousand dollars. Because of this, in 2021, two out of three French Bulldogs owned by pop singer Lady Gaga were kidnapped.
In February, in South Carolina, USA, a man in his 70s who came to trade pet dogs was shot by an unidentified group, and his French Bulldog was also taken away.
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