As the start of 2025 is upon us, let’s recap on the last year. What were the most popular breeds? What’s the deal with doodles? What were the most popular dog names? What were common dog trends?
Top Breeds of 2024
The ever so popular Labrador Retriever was dethroned in 2023 as the most popular dog breed in The United States. The most common dog breed for the second year in a row was… drumroll please… the French Bulldog!
Here are the top 10 dog breeds in 2024, according to By the Numbers from NBC:
- French Bulldog
- Labrador Retriever
- Golden Retriever
- German Shepherd
- Standard Poodle
- Dachshund
- Bulldog
- Beagle
- Rottweiler
- German Shorthaired Pointer
Top Names
What’s your furry friend’s name? Have you taken a mainstream approach or does your fido have a more unique name? According to the American Kennel Club, here are the most common dog names, separated between girls and boys.
Top 10 Girl Dog Names:
- Luna
- Bella
- Daisy
- Lucy
- Willow
- Stella
- Maggie
- Sadie
- Lola
- Rosie
Top 10 Boy Dog Names:
- Milo
- Max
- Teddy
- Charlie
- Cooper
- Bear
- Toby
- Finn
- Tucker
- Ollie
By now, you are probably aware of the Goldendoodle's popularity. Since it is not a specific breed, the statistics of the most popular kind of dog do not account for doodles, but as a mix, it continues to rise the ranks. For years, this “designer dog” has continued to be popular among dog owners.
Take, for instance, this New York Times article “Is That Dog Actually a… Human?” published in the middle of 2024, doodles are getting attention across TikTok. According to this article, people are focusing on the doodle’s human-like features. Owners tend to interpret their personality and expression as similar to that of people.
2024 Trends In Review
Now that we understand the who’s who of dogs, let’s discuss what was popular in 2024. Starting off strong, eco-friendly continues to be of focus among dog owners. Sustainability expands beyond pet parenting, of course, but evaluating your furry friend’s impact is a good consideration.
In order to be a sustainable pet parent, here are some ideas. Firstly, adoption is always a great idea! There are plenty of furry friends out there looking for loving homes! I invite you to do your own research, but consider getting sustainable food, toys, and waste, grooming, and cleaning products.
If you are crafty or chefy, consider making your own pet treats and toys, upcycling supplies you already have! You can even compost pet waste – it can be a rich addition to your personal compost.
Diet Fads Aren’t Just for Humans!
In addition to a sustainable focus regarding dogs’ diets, holistic and personalized diets were of note in 2024. Different companies stake their benefit on customization and health-conscious ingredients for your furry friend.
Furthermore, raw and freeze-dried foods and treats took to the stage. Not only can these be healthier for your pet, but they may also be more sustainable. Of course, not everything is as it seems though, and it is important to do independent research on the claims of different companies.
Wearables and Tracking Devices for Pets
Just like humans, fitness and location tracking is on the front-line. Are you aware of wearable technology for your pet?! These devices can track your pet’s daily movement. More importantly, these, along with traditional location AirTags, can help you keep your pet’s location tracked.
If you have concerns about your pet’s whereabouts, consider checking out collars with built-in Airtag holders! This can be a great precaution, especially for young or mischievous pets. Worry no more!
Anti-Trend? No Problem!
Maybe none of these trends crossed you and your pet’s path in 2024. Maybe you are the “take the road less traveled” type… All the more power to you! Maybe your habits will take off in popularity in 2025!
In the end, you always have to do what works best for you and your floof. As long as you put their health and wellbeing first, you do you! We all are just looking to have the most love-filled joyous lives for ourselves and our family members, human and not.
I invite you to reflect – how was 2024 for you and your four-legged friend? Are there any trends you wish would take off? What do you think will grow in popularity in 2025? Only time will tell!
