American Kennel Club Breeds

Interested to know what some of the more popular American Kennel Club breeds are? These American Kennel Club breeds can make amazing companions and pets. With so many choose from, finding the right dog among the American Kennel Club breeds can be quite difficult and daunting.

1. Akita. The Akita is considered a national treasure in its native Japan. This American Kennel Club breed is a large and powerful dog with a thick double coat. The Akita was recognized by the American Kennel Club or AKC in 1972.

2. Bichon Frise. The Bichon may be small but it is also sturdy and tough. Its has a soft, fluffy coat and has very minimal shedding. White is the most desired color but cream and apricot is also acceptable. Those with pet allergies should definitely consider this breed.

3. Chow Chow. The Chow Chow or “Chow” is an ancient breed of dog from China. It was also among the first breeds to be recognized by the American Kennel Club. It sports a heavy coat and distinct facial features that makes it look like a lion or a bear. The Chow Chow also has a unique blue tongue. This breed does make an excellent pet but the Chow has been known to be a little too independent and rather aloof at times.

4. Doberman Pinscher. The Doberman is known as an elite protection dog. Developed in Germany, the breed is intelligent, strong and fearless. The ears can flop down naturally or they can be cropped to give it a more menacing look. The tail is also often docked by owners.

5. German Shepherd Dog. The German Shepherd is recognized by the American Kennel Club as one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It was first developed in Germany as a herding and farm dog but it has since evolved to become a premier guard, police and military dog. The German Shepherd comes in many different colors but the most common and the most preferred is the classic black and tan look.

6. Greyhound. The Greyhound is known for its amazing speed. It stands tall and lean and is bursting with energy. The Greyhound needs a lot of exercise. Their instinct is to run so the need to be leased or placed in an enclosed yard. The American Kennel Club began to recognize the Greyhound as a breed in 1885.

7. Labrador Retriever. The Labrador Retriever is acknowledged by the American Kennel Club as the most popular dog breed in the United States. It is a friendly but calm dog breed that loves a regular workout. The Labrador is a medium sized dog with males and females usually weighing in at around 55 to 75 pounds.

8. Lhasa Apso. The Lhasa Apso is a small breed with long, elegant hair. They come in a variety of colors and do not shed as much as other breeds. The Lhasa Apso was developed in the Himalayas as a watch dog, always on the lookout for intruders.

9. Pug. One of the oldest breeds in the world, the Pug is also one of the smallest. Adults generally weigh around 14 to 18 pounds. Contrary to popular belief, the Pug does shed and sometimes sheds a lot. It does have a very short coat which makes maintenance very easy. Its flat face makes for a very unique look which may appeal to a number of dog owners.

10. Siberian Husky. The Siberian Husky was developed as a sled dog in the cold and unforgiving environment of North Asia. They are a medium sized dog with an unrelenting drive and a strong predatory instinct. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 1930.