Top 15 Most Common Dog Breeds in California

California is famous for its sunny weather, fun vibes, Hollywood stars, and big tech companies. But it’s also home to many dog lovers, with plenty of outdoor spots to explore with their furry friends. So, which dog breeds are the most popular in the Golden State? Here are the top 15 most common dog breeds in California!

French Bulldog

French Bulldogs have quickly become one of the most popular breeds across the country, and California is no different. They’re the top dog in Los Angeles, according to AKC rankings. These adorable, flat-faced pooches are pretty famous for their friendliness and ability to live in busy city environments.

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers have been America’s favorite dog for years, and Californians love them too. According to the AKC, Labs are the top choice not just in California but across the U.S. These friendly and energetic dogs are perfect for people who enjoy being outdoors and staying active. If you’re living in a busy California city with limited space—be ready to spend a lot of time exercising your Labrador to keep them happy and healthy.

Poodle

Poodles come in different sizes, from tiny lap dogs to jogging buddies, and are well-known for being allergy-friendly due to their low-shedding coats. With their fancy haircuts and sometimes energetic personalities, they fit right in with the glamorous Los Angeles lifestyle. They’re great pets—friendly, playful, and very smart. 

Pitbull

Any strong, muscular dog with a big head often gets labeled as a Pitbull, no matter their breed. The American Pitbull Terrier is the only dog that actually carries the name. Regardless of what they’re called, these canines are very popular in California. Pitbulls sometimes have a bad reputation because of negative stories, but they can be loving and affectionate pups.

German Shepherd

German Shepherds, known as the world’s most famous working dogs, are also a popular choice for Californians. These dogs are intelligent, easy to train, protective, and very loyal to their families. They make great pets and are always up for an adventure. However, because of their natural protective instincts and the wariness of strangers, they need regular training and socialization to ensure they grow into well-behaved canine citizens.

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers are cherished in California for their small size, bold personalities, and gorgeous silky coats. This breed is especially popular among city residents because they adjust well to apartment living and are easy to transport. Yorkies are lively and loving, making them great buddies for anyone looking for a small pup with a big personality. 

Golden Retriever

It’s no surprise that the Golden State loves Golden Retrievers. These sweet, friendly pups are not only beautiful with their golden coats but are also incredibly loving. While they enjoy being active, they are usually more laid-back than the high-energy Labrador Retrievers. They make the perfect family dog, always up for playing with the kids. They’re also friendly and always want to meet new people—an excellent trait in such a busy and crowded state!

Havanese

Originally from Cuba, the Havanese is also a popular breed in California because of their small size and allergy-friendly coat. These friendly little guys are outgoing, smart, and easy to train. While Havanese don’t shed much, their long coats do need regular grooming. They adapt well to the social lifestyle of California cities but are also sturdy enough to thrive as family pets.

Chihuahua

Given that California borders Mexico, it’s no surprise that Chihuahuas are one of the most popular breeds in the state. These little pups come in both long and short-haired versions. They’re known for having big personalities, but this is often because owners skip proper socialization and training since they’re tiny and easy to handle. Chihuahuas don’t need much space, making them great for living just about anywhere.

Beagle

Beagles are famous for their playful, friendly nature and love of food. These small hounds will follow their noses wherever they take them, especially on California’s busy roads. Keeping a Beagle contained is important, as they are skilled escape artists. However, they can be quite noisy, so they may not make the best neighbors in crowded cities.

English Bulldog

Californians have a soft spot for flat-faced dogs like the English Bulldog. Bulldogs are one of the most popular breeds in the whole world. Their unique faces and fun-loving personalities make them perfect for the laid-back California beach lifestyle. However, these pups can have many health issues and are prone to overheating in California’s warm weather, so they need extra care.

Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinschers are known for being true athletes and watchful protectors, which makes them one of the most popular breeds in the country. They are very smart and can seem intimidating, but they also make loving family pets. Training and socialization are important for Dobermans, and they need a lot of exercise to stay happy and healthy. These pups are also famous for their roles in police and military work around the world.

Whippet

The Whippet is a smaller version of the more famous Greyhound. Like their bigger cousins, Whippets are fast and will take off if something catches their attention. However, they’re not a high-energy breed overall. After a good run, they love to curl up on the couch for a nap. Because of this relaxed nature, these pups don’t need a fenced yard—making them a great choice for small living spaces in urban areas.

German Shorthaired Pointer

Even though German Shorthaired Pointers were originally bred for hunting, they are also popular pets in California. These pups love outdoor exercise, making them a perfect match for the state’s active lifestyle. The Golden State’s busy cities are packed with parks, and vast natural areas are just a short drive away, so there’s always an adventure waiting. German Shorthaired Pointers are friendly dogs that form strong bonds with their owners.

Mixed breed 

Lastly, mixed breeds are one of California’s most famous types of dogs. This includes all those trendy hybrid breeds like the Labradoodle, Cockapoo, and many others. It also has the lovable mutts found on the streets whose backgrounds might be a mystery. Mixed breed pups come in different kinds of shapes, sizes, colors, and personalities, making them unique and extra special pets for everyone.