Quantcast

The DNAinfo archives brought to you by WNYC.
Read the press release here.

Big Dogs Are More Popular in Big Apple, Survey Finds

NEW YORK CITY — The big apple loves big dogs.

In 2012, more New Yorkers championed larger dogs like the Labrador Retriever and the German Shepherd over smaller dogs like the Yorkshire Terrier, said Lisa Peterson, a spokeswoman for the American Kennel Club.

“Many people in New York City see small dogs often because they’re very portable, easy to live with in an apartment and you can put them in your purse and travel with them, but the large breeds are gaining in popularity,” Peterson said.

Labrador Retrievers took the title of most popular breed in New York City for 2012, and bulldogs, French bulldogs and German Shepherds followed, ranking in the top five, according to a survey by the American Kennel Club.

While the list has for the most part stayed the same since 2011, the Yorkshire Terrier fell from first place to fifth place in 2012.

“Interesting enough, the Yorkshire Terrier has been the most popular dog in New York City for several years and it's been overtaken by the Labrador Retriever for the first time in quite a while,” said Peterson. “City dwellers are enjoying the large breeds.”

For pet owners with large dogs, Peterson says it is important to allow the pups to have plenty of exercise, and to stimulate their minds.

“Many people think that exercising a dog is just about physical activity, but really mental stimulation is just as important,” said Peterson. “Your dog needs to be trained to do new things, learn tricks, or learn to walk on a leash.”