The 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds (and Their Travel Personalities)

Posted by Billy Francis

Despite our fondness for every pooch on the planet, certain breeds are more popular than others. From Poodles to Pointers and Bulldogs to Beagles, these are the 10 most popular breeds in the U.S., and their travel personalities. Which one is your “paw-fect” road trip buddy?

1. French Bulldog

"We don't need to go into the water." Photo by @goodboy.toad

French Bulldogs are most commonly found keeping people company in big cities. “Frenchies" usually weigh less than 28lbs, and their short legs and small stature make them easy travel companions. They can be scooped up and carried during rush hour, are often welcome on public transportation, and require less exercise than many larger breeds. They're also attentive and adaptable, which comes in handy if you need to change your travel plans at the last minute. The French Bulldog is a brachycephalic breed, which can cause respiratory issues. If you’re planning on jetsetting around the world, be warned that many flights don’t accept them due to their breathing difficulties at high altitudes.

Your Frenchie will adore:

2. Labrador Retriever

“I can see why we're so popular!” Photo by @harlestonmax

For 31 years, the lovable Labrador led the pack as the country’s most popular dog breed until it was dethroned from the top spot in 2022. The former fishing dogs first bred in Newfoundland are known for being ideal family pets, but how do Labs’ traits translate to travel? Labrador Retrievers are usually good-natured, which makes them great road trippers. Although they can spend all day fetching and running, they don’t mind chilling either. You’ll find it easy to train these big teddy bears for travel; they love learning new things. The only drawbacks of life on the road with a Lab are that they tend to weigh upwards of 60 lbs, require plenty of food and won’t fit into smaller carriers.

Your Lab will love:

3. Golden Retriever

“Two for one - twice the fun!” Photo by @finnbodey

With leading roles in movies like “Air Bud” and “Homeward Bound,” this “fur-miliar” breed will steal your heart and maybe even save your life. Just ask Ricochet, the surfing dog, who helps veterans with PTSD and children with disabilities overcome their fears. Goldens are calm, affectionate canines who are easy to please and love having fun. Whether you’re into sunbathing on the beach or hiking through the woods, all your Retriever cares about is coming along for the ride. This breed tends to shed and eat like a horse, so be prepared for a hairy car and extra luggage full of kibble.

Treat your Golden Retriever to a:

2. German Shepherd

Work hard, play hard. Photo by @benztheshep

German Shepherds are herding dogs that hail from, you guessed it, Germany. You may have seen them working as police dogs, assisting people as service animals, and even starring on the big screen as “Rin Tin Tin” or “Strongheart.” These loyal canines build strong bonds with their humans and love learning new things. They make excellent travel companions, as long as you’re willing to put the time and effort into training them. Your German Shepherd will walk by your side to the ends of the Earth and keep you safe along the way. The only drawback of these fantastic dogs is that they can become nervous if you don’t socialize them early.

German Shepherds enjoy:

5. Poodle

Pretty as a picture. Photo by @the_lychii

Many Poodle fanatics will be quick to inform you that their companions are less like dogs and more like living pieces of art. Pruned and pampered, this glamorous breed is sure to be your super-stylish poolside partner, especially as they were first bred as water retrievers. Poodles come in three sizes, one for each type of traveler; Standard (over 15 inches tall), Miniature (under 15 inches) and Toy (fewer than 10 inches). All sizes of Poodles are naturally intelligent and enjoy training, but the Standard is the most athletic if you’re planning an outdoor adventure. The smaller breeds can fit right into a handbag or carrier. If you're flying with your furry friend, be aware that Poodles can get stressed out in unfamiliar situations. They're better suited to quiet country retreats or resort vacations rather than the hustle and bustle of big city stays.

Take your Poodle:

6. Dachshund

“I’m a hot dog!” Photo by Facebook.com/residenceinn

Known for its long and short stature and bold personality, the Dachshund has quickly jumped up the “pupularity” list. Dachshunds come in two sizes (standard or miniature) and in three coat types (smooth, wirehaired or longhaired). Dachshunds aren't built for distance running, leaping, or strenuous swimming, but otherwise make fabulous travel partners. Weiner dogs, as they’re often called, have a big bark, so they probably aren’t best suited to be left unattended in hotel rooms. But, the smart and stubborn pups are great fun for day trips to dog-friendly events, staying in vacation rentals and dining out.

Dachshunds will feel right at home:

7. Bulldog

“Move along, nothing to see here!” Photo by @bulldogskater

Bulldogs are amiable creatures. Originally bred in England to control livestock, they’ve been known to get along with other pups and humans alike. The stretchy-skinned, stocky pups are A-listers in their own right who have provided companionship for icons like Winston Churchill, Truman Capote, and, more recently, Brad Pitt and David Beckham. Despite their size, they love an active life and relish exploring new destinations with their humans. Like the French Bulldog, this breed is brachycephalic, so it’s best to avoid sunny afternoon adventures and air travel.

Bulldogs love:

8. Beagle

“I sniffed out a great hotel!” Photo by @rescuebeagletori

America still has “Beagle-mania!” Originally bred in England for hunting, this floppy-eared breed is always ready to sniff out a good time. They’re known for being adaptable and friendly with dogs and humans, which is great for making new friends at unfamiliar dog parks while vacationing. Once a Beagle catches a scent, there’s no stopping them, so keep your pup leashed in new places and be ready to leave a quiet restaurant patio if they get an urge to unleash a round of those infamous howls

Beagles will appreciate:

9. Rottweiler

“Floating through life like …” Photo by @henotoriousdogofpb

Like many large dogs, Rottweilers have a bad rap with people unfamiliar with the breed. Yes, they’re heavyweights, with females usually weighing up to 110 lbs and males even more, but that doesn’t stop them from being calm, confident and fun travel companions. Get your muscular mate used to the idea from an early age by taking the time to train him and socialize with other dogs and people as much as possible. If you do so, he'll wander with you wherever you go. Unfortunately, not everybody can see past Rottweilers’ undue reputations, and some establishments that claim to be pet friendly might not allow them. Don’t be surprised if you have to make last-minute changes when you travel with your Rottie.

Treat your Rottweiler to:

10. German Shorthaired Pointer

Everything’s coming up daisies! Photo by @socalgsp

Smart, energetic dogs who love to play, German Shorthaired Pointers can’t get enough of spending time with loved ones. A relatively new breed, the first recorded account of a German Shorthaired Pointer didn’t appear until the late 19th century. Their charming nature usually means they get along with everybody, too. Due to German Shorthaired Pointers' love of being around humans, they don’t like to be left alone for long periods of time. When not on the go, this affectionate breed will be cuddled up on your lap or by your side.

Pointers can burn off all that energy while: