What are the Most Popular Dog Breeds Found in Shelters?
Adopting a companion from a shelter is a great way to give a pet a second chance at life! But what breeds are most commonly found in shelters? Read below to learn more!
Australian Cattle Dog
This breed is also known as the Blue heeler or Australian Heeler. The cattle dog is a herding breed that has a high work and energy drive! So, this breed makes a great hiking and running companion that is smart, loyal and easy to train. Plus, the breed is fairly low-maintenance and is very protective of their family! Homeless pets are often mislabeled, so not every spotted, pointed-ear dog is a high-energy herding dog!
Beagle
Beagles are historically hunting dogs. So, they require a lot of exercise to stay happy and healthy. However, they are very loving and make great family pets! The breed bonds well with new members of their pack and are great lovable companions.
Boxer
Boxers are often mistaken for Pit Bulls due to their muscular body and blocky head. The breed became hugely popular in the 90s and has been overbred, leading to lots of Boxers in shelters and rescues. Additionally, the breed is highly active and makes a great family dog!
Bulldog
Bulldogs are athletic dogs that make great guard dogs and protectors. The breed is often lumped into the “bully breeds.” So, they are often on banned lists by local governments and landlords. However, the breed is very loyal and loving to their humans!
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are very popular in urban areas due to their small size. Additionally, They are found in many shelters on the West Coast because celebrities have made the breed widely popular. The breed is great for apartment living and travel and is highly intelligent and trainable!
Dachshund
Dachshunds commonly have spinal problems, and owners without pet insurance often can’t afford the medical costs of keeping up with their furry friend’s medical bills. However, the breed is very energetic, loyal, and charming. Plus, their hot dog cuteness is unmatchable!
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are herding dogs that are very active, loyal, and protective. Additionally, this breed is one of the most commonly misidentified dogs in shelters. People often see a tan and black dog and assume it is a German Shepherd. The breed does best in open spaces and is a fiercely loyal and lively companion!
Labrador Retriever
Specifically, black labs are often common in shelters. This is due to the theory that big black dogs are adopted less often than other types of dogs. Labradors are extremely popular dogs who are energetic, loyal, easygoing, and loving! With a large proportion of people owning the breed, a large proportion of these dogs end up in shelters, too.
Pit Bull Terrier
Pit Bull Terriers are commonly called Pit Bulls and are lumped with other bully breeds. Because of this, they are often stereotyped as being dangerous. However, they are very athletic, loyal, loving, and protective of their humans! Additionally, the breed is often very sensitive and adapts to match the personality of its owner!
The breeds above are the most common breeds found in shelters, and all make great companions with the right owners!