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Dog trends come and go just like TikTok dances and avocado toast. Some dog breeds have their moment in the spotlight thanks to celebrity endorsements, viral videos, or just being flat-out adorable. But this year, certain breeds are already making waves and are poised to dominate dog parks, Instagram feeds, and our collective hearts. Whether it’s their good looks, intelligence, family-friendly vibes, or their ability to rock a sweater like a runway model, these pups are expected to be everywhere.
French Bulldog
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The French Bulldog has been riding a wave of popularity for the past few years, and it’s not slowing down anytime soon. With their signature bat ears, snub noses, and charming waddle, Frenchies are the ultimate urban companion. They’re perfect for apartment living, don’t require much exercise, and are low-maintenance in the grooming department (unlike their attitude, which is high-maintenance in the best way). Their quirky personalities and ability to pose like influencers have made them Instagram darlings. Honestly, French Bulldogs don’t follow trends—they create them.
Golden Retriever
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If there were an award for “Most Likely to Be Everyone’s Best Friend,” the Golden Retriever would take home the gold every single time. These sunshine-filled fluffballs are loyal, affectionate, and always down for a game of fetch or a hug (sometimes both at once). Families love them, kids adore them, and even your grumpy neighbor can’t resist their goofy grins. With their dependable temperament and heart-melting charm, Golden Retrievers continue to be the poster pups for the all-American family dog.
Dachshund
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The Dachshund is long, low, and absolutely loaded with personality. Whether you call them wiener dogs, sausage dogs, or “the one who thinks he’s a Doberman,” Dachshunds are making a serious comeback. Social media has embraced their dramatic antics and hilarious proportions, and Gen Z can’t get enough of their bold, sometimes sassy attitudes. They may be small, but their confidence is skyscraper-sized. Combine that with their endless variety of coat types and colors, and it’s easy to see why these little hot dogs are sizzling in popularity this year.
Australian Shepherd
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The Australian Shepherd has been stealing hearts and frisbees alike. These stunning herders have become social media stars thanks to their dreamy eyes, photogenic coats, and high-energy antics. Perfect for active owners, Aussie Shepherds thrive when they have a job or a ball to chase. Their intelligence is next-level, making them fun and a little dangerous in the “I’ve figured out how to open the fridge” kind of way. With their rising presence in dog sports, agility competitions, and hiking trails, it’s safe to say Aussies are sprinting to the top of the charts.
Labrador Retriever
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Let’s be real—did Labs ever not make the list? America’s sweetheart of the dog world is still going strong this year, and for good reason. Labradors are friendly, goofy, trainable, and excellent with families, kids, and probably your barista. They’re like the golden retriever’s more chill cousin who is also good at everything. Labs also come in multiple colors (black, yellow, and chocolate), so there’s a flavor for everyone. If popularity were a game of fetch, Labs would win every time—and bring the ball back perfectly.
Bernedoodle
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Designer dog alert! The Bernedoodle, a mix between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle, is rising in fame faster than you can say “hypoallergenic teddy bear.” With their wavy, low-shedding coats and big, soulful eyes, these floofs have captured the hearts of families looking for beauty and brains. They’re great with kids, surprisingly goofy, and the kind of dog that turns heads on every walk. Thanks to their “best of both worlds” personality, Bernedoodles are showing up on adoption wish lists everywhere. Expect more of these lovable furballs to show off their curls this year.
Shiba Inu
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If memes were currency, Shiba Inu would be billionaires by now. Famously known as the face of the Doge meme, this independent and fox-like breed has gained major online fame—but beyond the internet, people are falling in love with their real-life personalities. Shibas are clean, clever, and a little aloof, making them a great choice for people who love dogs but also enjoy a little personal space. They walk with the air of a tiny emperor and give side-eyes like professional critics. Shibas aren’t just a vibe—they’re a lifestyle, and that lifestyle is trending hard.
Border Collie
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The Border Collie is the Einstein of the dog world, and this year, people are waking up to just how amazing they are. These dogs are working machines disguised as adorable fluff missiles. They excel at everything—agility, obedience, herding your kids around the yard—and they need stimulation like humans need coffee. Active singles and sporty families are drawn to their boundless energy and almost eerie intelligence. If you’re not giving your Border Collie enough to do, don’t be surprised when it teaches itself how to open cabinets and reprogram your smart TV.
Miniature Schnauzer
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The Miniature Schnauzer is compact, classy, and climbing the popularity ladder with its signature beard flowing in the wind. These small but mighty terriers are loyal, full of personality, and surprisingly easy to train. They’ve got the energy of a big dog packed into a fun-size frame and don’t shed much, which is a major win for anyone tired of finding fur in their coffee. Their classic look and alert and spunky nature make them a go-to breed for modern pet parents. Plus, those expressive eyebrows? Pure magic.
The Pup Stars of the Year
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This year’s most buzz-worthy and delightfully trendy dog breeds are here to steal hearts and dominate social feeds. Whether you love goofy charmers, elegant fluffballs, or quirky independents, there’s a rising star on this list for everyone. As these pups take over living rooms, parks, and the algorithm, remember: behind every viral moment is an owner scrubbing muddy paw prints from the furniture. Because with canine fame comes great responsibility—especially when it chews your shoes and pees on your rug like it owns the place.
