7 Most Popular Dog Breeds In Colorado In 2024

While Golden Retrievers have an instinct to protect their pack, they are not typical guard dogs. They are friendly and open to meeting strangers and new animals. Their balanced temperament and ability to find and retrieve objects make them favorites in the service dog industry, especially for working with children.

Golden Retrievers are well-suited for Colorado’s wintry weather, enjoying extended periods outdoors. However, they do have some common health issues. According to the AKC, these include hip dysplasia, cancer, thyroid and heart issues, as well as seizures. Skin issues like hot spots, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy are also common concerns.

2. Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are one of the smallest dog breeds in the world and are very popular in Colorado. With big personalities packed into small bodies, Chihuahuas are great dogs for first-time pet owners. Many dog owners with allergies prefer Chihuahuas because they are mostly hypoallergenic. Colorado’s urban dwellers particularly appreciate these tiny pups due to their size and energy levels.

Chihuahuas move elegantly with a quick and steady gait, making them popular even among celebrities like Paris Hilton. If you have a short and smooth coat Chihuahua, they require minimal grooming. For longer-haired Chihuahuas, weekly brushing is recommended to prevent matting and tangles.

Generally, Chihuahuas are healthy dogs, but their small size makes them susceptible to specific health issues, particularly related to their skeletal and respiratory systems, including their knees and windpipe. Despite this, Chihuahuas are not high-maintenance pets.

According to the ASPCA, Chihuahuas don’t tolerate the cold well and may shiver to stay warm. If your Chihuahua is chilly, put on a small dog shirt or coat, and ensure they have a warm and cozy bed. During extremely cold weather, it may be best to keep your Chihuahua indoors.

3. Goldendoodle

Goldendoodles are the adorable result of crossbreeding a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Combining the clever and playful traits of Poodles with the loyal and friendly nature of Golden Retrievers, Goldendoodles are extremely popular in Colorado. They shed very little, making them a great choice for people with allergies or those who prefer a cleaner home. Their temperament, trainability, and super-cute look make them ideal pets.

Goldendoodles are generally goofy, playful, and full of love. They need daily exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and prevent destructive behavior when left alone for too long. According to PetMD, Goldendoodles are generally healthy dogs that can live 10–15 years, but they are prone to common health conditions found in both Poodles and Golden Retrievers.

Goldendoodles have thick fur that helps protect them from the cold, but they lack undercoats, so extra care is needed during extreme weather conditions. Regular grooming and attention to their physical and mental needs will ensure a happy, healthy Goldendoodle.

4. German Shepherd

German Shepherds are very popular in Colorado and make excellent family dogs. Known for their loyalty and protective nature, they will do anything to keep their family safe, making them great watchdogs. Their eagerness to please and high motivation from food and praise makes them easy to train, allowing them to learn a wide variety of commands and tricks. German Shepherds are also used in law enforcement, search and rescue, and as service animals.

German Shepherds are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of around 10-12 years. They require regular exercise but do not need excessive grooming. Their thick double coat sheds twice a year, but regular brushing can keep shedding to a minimum.

According to PDSA, German Shepherds are very adaptable and can thrive in various environments, making them a great choice for families in both urban and rural areas in Colorado. These dogs particularly enjoy the winter season and are well-equipped to handle cold weather, thanks to their double coat.

5. French Bulldog

French Bulldogs, or Frenchies, are the perfect companions for children due to their playful, kind, and gentle nature, making them a favorite among Colorado families. They easily fit in your lap while watching Netflix and love to sleep close to their beloved owners. Orvis notes that their shedding periods are manageable with their small bodies and short hair.

Frenchies need some physical exercise, but much less than larger breeds. They don’t require wide-open spaces to run, so you can play with them even in your apartment. One reason Colorado residents love Frenchies is the growing number of pet-friendly restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. Frenchies are loyal, friendly, and calm, making them great companions to take along everywhere instead of leaving them alone.

However, cold weather can pose significant health risks to French Bulldogs. Their inability to tolerate extreme temperatures makes them vulnerable to hypothermia and frostbite, especially in sensitive areas like their paws, ears, and nose. Ensuring they are properly protected during colder months is essential for their health and safety.

6. Labrador Retriever

Whether black, yellow, or chocolate, the Labrador Retriever is widely considered one of the most popular dog breeds in Colorado. They get along well with children, making them a beloved choice for families. Labradors form strong bonds with kids, naturally adjusting their behavior with small or nervous children while enjoying rough-and-tumble play with more boisterous kids.

Labradors are eager to please and hate letting their owners down, making them incredibly versatile. Besides being great family pets, they excel as hearing and sight dogs, hunting dogs, army dogs, companion dogs, therapy pets, sniffer dogs, and working dogs. Their combination of intelligence and eagerness to please makes them easy to train without the need for expensive obedience classes.

According to WebMD, it’s important to monitor your Labrador’s food intake and weight and ensure they get enough exercise to stay active and fit. Labrador Retrievers are more prone to arthritis, stiffness, obesity, and ear infections compared to other breeds. However, they are generally well-suited for cold weather thanks to their dense double coat, which provides insulation and water resistance.

7. Bulldog

The Bulldog is one of the most popular dog breeds in Colorado. These laid-back, lovable, and family-friendly dogs are known for their wrinkled skin and slobber, which only add to their endearing charm. AKC points out that despite their sweet and cuddly nature today, Bulldogs have a history rooted in a vicious sport, showcasing their complex and resilient nature.

Bulldogs are also popular across America, with many celebrities owning them. Their smushed-in faces and button noses make them particularly popular in Colorado. However, their stout stature and unique physical features come with health challenges, especially related to breathing. Their short snouts and compressed skulls can cause serious breathing difficulties, increasing their risk of respiratory issues.

Bulldogs cannot tolerate extreme hot or cold weather, requiring special care based on the daily forecast to keep them comfortable. Despite these challenges, their affectionate and easygoing nature makes them a beloved choice for many families.

Wrap Up

Colorado’s most popular dog breeds, including Golden Retrievers, Chihuahuas, Goldendoodles, German Shepherds, French Bulldogs, Labrador Retrievers, and Bulldogs, are cherished for their unique traits and adaptability to the state’s diverse environment.

These breeds offer a mix of loyalty, intelligence, and affection, making them perfect companions for families and individuals alike. Whether navigating the bustling city or enjoying the great outdoors, these dogs bring joy, protection, and companionship to their Colorado homes.