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. Labrador Retrievers

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

For the past 28 years, the lovable Labrador has led the pack as the country’s most popular dog breed. The former fishing dogs that were first bred in Newfoundland are known for being ideal family pets, but how do Marley’s traits translate to travel? Labrador Retrievers are usually good natured, which makes them great passengers in the car. 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 nothing more than learning new things. The only drawbacks for life on the road with a Lab is that they tend to weigh upwards of 60 lbs, require plenty of food and won’t fit into smaller carriers.

Your Lab will love:

2. German Shepherds

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 such 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 get them socialized early.

German Shepherds enjoy:

3. Golden Retrievers

“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. Retrievers 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 Goldie 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:

4. French Bulldogs

"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 roughly translates to short-headed. If you’re planning on jet-setting around the world, be warned that many flights don’t accept them due to their breathing difficulties at high altitudes.

Your Frenchie will adore:

5. Bulldogs

“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 would 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:

6. Poodles

“Where to next?” Photo by Torstein Finnbakk on Unsplash

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 Poodle 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:

7. Beagles

“I’m in a rock cover band. We’re called “The Beagles’!” Photo by Josh Duncan on Unsplash

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 her, so keep your pup leashed in new places and be ready to leave a quiet restaurant patio if she gets an urge to unleash a round of those infamous howls.

Beagles will appreciate:

8. Rottweilers

“Floating through life like …” Photo by @henotoriousdogofpb

Rottweilers, like many large dogs, have a bad rap with people who are 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 to travel with. 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 may not even accept them. Don’t be surprised if you have to make last-minute changes when you travel with your Rottie.

Treat your Rottweiler to:

9. Pointers (German Shorthaired)

“Hold on, I’m just galloping into your heart!” Photo by Tim Golder on Unsplash

Smart 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.

Pointers can burn off all that energy while:

10. Pembroke Welsh Corgis

“Who am I?” Photo by @corgi_zero

If you don’t mind being herded around your hotel room, Pembroke Welsh Corgis might be your ideal travel buddies. Their lineage can be traced back over 900 hundred years to Flemish weavers relocating to Wales. More than 30 Pembroke Welsh Corgis have kept Queen Elizabeth II company over her reign, although now she’s switched to “Dorgis,” a mixed breed of Dachshund and Corgi. Pembroke Welsh Corgis are a loyal breed who will watch over you on the road. They  love to stay active and have fun, and are adored everywhere they go for their fluffy tushies. Unfortunately, they’re not known for being great with children. This means a secluded vacation away from amusement parks might be more suited to you and your regal pet.

Pembroke Welsh Corgis will feel right at home:

Which breed makes the best travel buddy? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!

Banner photo by @charlestonmax.