Lab Retriever is Seattle’s Favorite

Once again, the Labrador Retriever took Seattle's top spot in the American Kennel Club's (AKC) 2016 ranking of the most popular AKC-recognized dog breeds in the U.S.

The big movers and shaker in Seattle for 2016 was the Havanese, jumping from 12th to 5th, while the Poodle fell out of favor in the city, dropping from 5th to 8th.

"The Lab may be number one in Seattle, but the 2016 was the year of the Havanese," said AKC Vice President Gina DiNardo. "The outgoing, funny little dog broke into the top five and shows no signs of stopping."

Seattle's Most Popular Breeds 2016:

Labrador Retriever

Golden Retriever

German Shepherd Dog

French Bulldog

Havanese

The Havanese is now the 5th most popular breed in Seattle area

The AKC also announced its nationwide rankings today in a press conference at its new pet care space, AKC Canine Retreat. The intelligent, family friendly Labrador Retriever firmly holds on to the number one spot on the most popular list for a record-breaking 26th consecutive year.

While the Labrador Retriever continues its reign as America's dog, the Rottweiler has been slowly but surely rising up the list over the past decade. The confident, loyal and loving Rottie was the eighth most popular breed in 2016, its highest ranking since landing at number two in 1997. The Rottweiler has risen nine spots over the past decade and is poised for a comeback.