American Kennel Club declares most popular breeds, Labradors rank first

While Americans still love Labrador retrievers, the nation’s interest in French bulldogs has reached new heights. (Photos: AP)

Harbor, an 8-week old labrador retriever, takes a nap during a news conference at the American Kennel Club headquarter, Wednesday, March 28, 2018, in New York. American Kennel Club rankings released in 2018 show the labrador is the most popular purebred dog.

German shepherds Hunter, 5-months, left and Flirt, 4, pose for photographers during a news conference at the American Kennel Club headquarter, Wednesday, March 28, 2018, in New York. American Kennel Club rankings released in 2018 show German shepherds are the second most popular purebred dog.

A litter of seven golden retriever puppies trots across the lawn after their mother Carley at Mountain View Kennels in Williamsburg, Pa., American Kennel Club rankings being released Wednesday, March 28, 2018 show Labs remain the country's most popular purebred dog for a 27th year. But Frenchies hit a highest-ever No. 4, and German shorthaired pointers cracked the top 10 for the first time.

A French bulldog competes at the Westminster Kennel Club show in New York. The French bulldog has bolted from 76th to fourth in just 20 years.

A bulldog, a golden retriever, a French bulldog, a German shepherd and a Labrador retriever are shown off during a news conference at the American Kennel Club in New York. These puppies represent the five most popular breeds in AKC rankings released in 2018

Nick, an Australian shepherd, competes during the herding group competition during the 142nd Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, at Madison Square Garden in New York. American Kennel Club rankings released in 2018 show Aussies have gained in popularity in the last decade.

Chester, a 13-inch beagle, competes in the Hound group during the 142nd Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, at Madison Square Garden in New York. American Kennel Club rankings released in 2018 show beagles are the sixth most popular breed on the list, and are the only breed that made the top ten for every decade since the 1880s.

Pua, right, a 5-month old French bulldog inspects McKenzie, a 8-week old golden retriever during a news conference at the American Kennel Club headquarter, Wednesday, March 28, 2018, in New York. American Kennel Club rankings released in 2018 show French bulldogs are the fourth most popular dog breed.