9 Most Popular Dog Breeds In Ohio In 2024
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Ohio is a wonderful blend of everything that is actually great about America: diverse communities, beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and a deep love for our pets!
In the U.S., two-thirds of households have at least one pet, and Ohio is no exception. Around 62.4% of homes in Ohio have pets, and dogs are the most popular, with 37.9% of households owning one.
Pets bring joy, companionship, and comfort to millions of people in Ohio despite the work they require. For dog lovers, Ohio is a great place to be. In fact, Cincinnati was ranked the fifth-best city in the U.S. for pet owners by Forbes Advisor.
If you’re curious about which dog breeds are the most loved in Ohio, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore the most popular dogs you’ll find in the Buckeye State.
Most Popular Dog Breeds in Ohio
1. Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is the most popular dog breed in Ohio, according to a report from U.S. News & World Report. These dogs are a common sight throughout the state, and it’s easy to see why they’re so beloved.
Golden Retrievers are known for their beautiful, dense coats of golden fur and their friendly, adaptable nature. While many are simply cherished pets, some Golden Retrievers still serve their original purpose as hunting dogs. Their webbed feet make them excellent swimmers and effective hunters for waterfowl.
According to Hill’s Pet, Golden Retrievers get along well with everyone, especially children, and their sweet nature and unconditional love make them a joy to have around. Their presence alone can bring happiness to any household.
Golden Retrievers are also hard workers, excelling in various roles such as service work for the blind and search-and-rescue missions. They are typically obedient and enjoy participating in competitive events. They respond well to training and form strong bonds with their owners, providing invaluable support and companionship.
2. German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is Ohio’s famous dog breed. Along with 15 other states, Ohio has chosen the German Shepherd as its favorite dog, making it the second most popular breed.
According to the American Kennel Club, German Shepherds originate from Germany and are renowned for their loyalty, courage, confidence, and ability to learn various commands. These qualities make them a popular choice not only for families but also for law enforcement K-9 units and military support roles.
The ASPCA highlights that German Shepherds are intelligent, loyal, and hardworking. They seem aloof to strangers; they make exceptional guard dogs with excellent judgment. Their loyalty means they listen well to commands and understand their place in the household. However, their intelligence comes with a need for proper training and socialization. Without exposure to a variety of people, German Shepherds can become territorially aggressive or suspicious of strangers.
Generally a healthy breed, German Shepherds are prone to bloat, a life-threatening swelling of the abdomen, so it’s important for owners to be aware of this condition.
3. Chihuahua
A small dog breed with a big personality, the Chihuahua has won the hearts of dog lovers in Ohio. Popularized by Hollywood and even Taco Bell, Chihuahuas remain a beloved breed in the state. Their sassy little attitudes set them apart from other dogs.
According to the AKC, these clever little dogs possess loyalty, charm, and a big-dog attitude. Despite their tiny size, Chihuahuas are full of personality. They are very vocal and make excellent alert companions, always letting you know if someone is approaching.
Chihuahuas are perfectly portable! Their giant personalities fit easily into a pint-sized carry-on for day trips around town or flights to visit family. Though they’re a toy breed, Chihuahuas can be high-energy, often exhibiting playful “zoomies.” Unlike larger dogs, they are easy to exercise and can even get their activity indoors.
Chihuahuas are indoor lap dogs. Both short and long-coated Chihuahuas get cold easily, so they enjoy the warmth and comfort of being indoors.
4. Goldendoodle
Goldendoodles are becoming increasingly popular, and Ohio is one of the places where they thrive. This designer dog is a mix between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. They are loved for many reasons: their health, intelligence, gentle nature, fun-loving personalities, and adorable looks.
One of the main attractions of Goldendoodles is their hypoallergenic coats, making them a great choice for families with allergies. Their friendly temperament makes them a hit with children, and they get along well with other pets.
In addition to their lovable personalities, Goldendoodles are known for their versatility. They love hiking, swimming, and playing fetch, making them perfect for families who enjoy outdoor activities. They also make excellent service dogs.
Goldendoodles have been around for several decades and have established a reputation as one of the healthiest dog breeds. They come in various sizes, suiting different lifestyles and living situations, which adds to their popularity.
5. Yorkshire Terrier
Often named one of the most popular dog breeds in Ohio, Yorkies pack a big-town attitude into a small, self-important package. They are favorites among urbanites worldwide. Yorkies are long-lived and hypoallergenic, as their coat is more like human hair than animal fur, and they make excellent little watchdogs. This breed offers years of laughter, love, and close companionship.
Originally bred to catch rats in mills, Yorkshire Terriers have a strong hunting instinct and are bold, fearless characters, according to PetPlan. They make great companions for those living alone and are good pets for families with older children as long as kids are taught to interact with them correctly.
Yorkies are affectionate and crave lots of attention, making them a great choice for someone who wants to pamper their dog.
Yorkshire Terriers are intelligent and easy to train, which is a plus for first-time dog owners who may not have experience with dog training. Their watchdog abilities, combined with their charming personalities, make Yorkies a beloved choice in Ohio and beyond.
6. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are perfect city dogs. They thrive in small spaces, are not noisy, and love people. With their snub noses and bat-like ears, French Bulldogs have become one of the most popular dog breeds in Ohio. Their charming temperament and unique physical characteristics have contributed to their popularity, along with endorsements from high-profile figures. They’re also social media favorites, thanks to their adorable looks.
However, their rising demand and limited supply have increased their value, leading to a black market where thieves steal these dogs for profit and unethical breeding practices occur, according to Marketplace.org.
French Bulldogs are easygoing and fun-loving, making great additions to any family. They are true companion dogs, thriving on human contact. They are patient with children, friendly with strangers, and loyal to their owners—sometimes to the point of being overly protective.
There is a downside, though. A study published in Canine Medicine and Genetics found that French Bulldogs are more likely to develop 20 common canine disorders compared to other breeds.
7. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is another beloved dog breed in Ohio, as well as across the USA. Labradors make perfect family companions, enjoying activities like romping around with kids, hiking outdoors, or relaxing by your side on the porch. They are adaptable to various lifestyles as long as they get the necessary exercise.
Labradors are friendly and social, making friends wherever they go. They are excellent with children, strangers, and other dogs. With their hunting background, they may have a high prey drive, but with proper socialization, they can get along well with cats and even help with tasks around the house. Many Labs in Ohio still accompany their owners on hunts, a popular activity in the state.
While Labs are exceptional companions, they do have their challenges. They can take a long time to mature, which might be difficult for novice owners if the dog is too rowdy. Labradors also tend to forget their size and can be overly excitable during play. Managing their high prey drive can be challenging, especially if you have smaller pets. Additionally, Labs tend to shed heavily in the spring and fall as the weather changes.
8. Rottweiler
Rottweilers, affectionately known as Rotties, are one of the most popular dog breeds in Ohio. They are renowned for their strength, intelligence, and instinct for guarding, making them powerful and protective companions. With a strong bite force, Rottweilers are often used as guard dogs and are not to be underestimated.
Despite their formidable reputation, Rottweilers are also easily trained, making them loyal, loving, and confident guardians. They are particularly good with kids and are tolerant of rough play.
The American Kennel Club rates them as highly affectionate and playful. According to the PDSA, they do best with owners who understand the breed and prioritize early socialization and consistent, reward-based training.
While Rottweilers are sturdy and resilient, they are susceptible to various health issues, ranging from mild to serious. These can include optical disorders like cataracts, entropion, and progressive retinal atrophy, as well as hip dysplasia and other orthopedic complaints.
9. English Bulldog
English Bulldogs are cheerful and sturdy dogs with unique, charming personalities. It’s no surprise that people in Ohio love them, as they are friendly in most social settings and have a distinctive appearance.
English Bulldogs usually get along well with other dogs and smaller animals if raised together. However, they may experience same-sex aggression or territorial issues. It’s important to socialize them from a young age.
One noticeable trait of English Bulldogs is that they slobber a lot! Their short, flat faces (brachycephalic makeup) can lead to breathing issues, and they are also prone to heart conditions.
Over time, English Bulldogs have been bred to have large, blocky bodies and droopy jowls. Unfortunately, this has led to various genetic health problems that can be costly and difficult to treat, potentially shortening their lifespan.
Additionally, English Bulldogs often come with a high price tag, primarily due to their breeding challenges. Their large heads and narrow hips make natural births difficult, so many Bulldogs require surgery.
Wrap Up
Ohio’s favorite dog breed list showcases a diverse range of personalities and characteristics. From the cheerful Shih Tzu and the playful Boston Terrier to the intelligent Australian Shepherd and the energetic Siberian Husky, these popular breeds have captured the hearts of many.
Whether you prefer a small companion like the Shih Tzu or a hardworking partner like the Australian Shepherd, Ohio offers a variety of beloved breeds that suit different lifestyles and families.
