In a significant shift highlighted by JustAnswer's recent data analysis, Chihuahuas have taken the lead as the most popular dog breed in the United States, overtaking Labradors for the top spot in 2025. This marks a notable change as Chihuahuas jumped from second place last year to reclaim their title. Alongside this, the name "Luna" has emerged victorious in dog naming trends, ousting "Bella" from her long-standing position as the #1 dog name in America. To commemorate National Dog Day approaching on August 26, JustAnswer examined over 114,000 conversations between pet owners and veterinarians on their platform, revealing fascinating insights into America’s dog preferences.
America's Beloved Breeds in 2025
In examining the details regarding dog breeds, several trends emerged:
- - Chihuahuas not only ascended to first place but did so at the cost of Labradors, who now hold the second position.
- - Pitbulls maintained their popularity, ranking in the top three, while Yorkshire Terriers and German Shepherds completed the top five.
- - French Bulldogs made a notable entry into the top ten for the first time this year; conversely, Golden Retrievers and Poodles experienced a slight downturn in rankings.
- - While data from JustAnswer indicates that Chihuahuas and Labradors lead in inquiries, the American Kennel Club’s registrations present a different picture, with French Bulldogs being the most popular purebred breed in the nation.
- - Regional preferences showcase breed diversity across the U.S., with Labradors dominating in the Midwest and Northeast, while Chihuahuas are more prevalent in the Southeast and West regions. Despite popular opinion, Pitbulls maintain a top-three ranking across most areas.
Top Dog Names of 2025
Dog naming trends reveal some changes:
- - The name “Luna” has jumped from #2 in 2024 to become the most popular dog name, while “Bella” has dropped to third place. "Daisy" is now the runner-up in the name hierarchy.
- - The top five dog names this year also include “Lucy” and “Charlie.”
- - In a refreshing twist, “Penny” and “Sadie” have made their way into the top ten, while previously popular names like “Max,” “Buddy,” and “Bailey” have vanished from the list.
- - Some names exhibit regional favors, such as “Lucy” leading in the Midwest, “Luna” in the Northeast and Southeast, and “Daisy” taking the top in the West.
Breed-Specific Naming Trends
Further analysis from JustAnswer explores how naming varies among the top three breeds:
- - Owners of Chihuahuas often opt for names like "Chloe" or "Mac."
- - Labrador fans show a preference for names such as "Daisy" or "Duke."
- - Those with Pitbulls frequently choose "Roxie" or "Beast."
Importance of a Good Dog Name
Sally Grottini, a dog behavior expert at JustAnswer, highlights the significance of choosing an appropriate name for a pet. She notes that a name not only should resonate with the owner but also should be distinct from the names of other household pets to prevent confusion. Owners are encouraged to select names that make them feel positive about their pets.
Common Concerns Among Dog Owners
Health concerns remain a dominant theme among the questions that dog owners pose on JustAnswer. The most frequently asked questions this year include:
- - “What should I do if my dog ate chocolate?”
- - “What does it mean if my dog is vomiting, having diarrhea, or panting excessively?”
- - “What should I do if my dog swallowed something unusual?”
- - “How can I help my dog if their leg is swollen or injured?”
- - “What causes my dog's stomach to bloat, impacting its bathroom habits?”
The overarching goal is to ensure pet owners feel equipped with timely and expert advice to maintain their pet's health and happiness.
As the CEO of JustAnswer, Andy Kurtzig stated, “Our pets reflect our personalities, and by understanding their names, breeds, and needs, we can forge a deeper bond with them.” For more insights into dog trends and expert advice on the importance of pet names, visit JustAnswer's blog.