10 Most Popular Dog Breeds In Texas In 2024

Texas is known for its legendary cowboy culture, bustling cities, stunning landscapes, mouth-watering Tex-Mex cuisine, and warm southern hospitality. Famous for its thrilling rodeos, vibrant music scene, and unique Texan culture, Texas has another beloved hallmark: dogs!

Texas is a vast state that offers a wide variety of dog companions of all sizes and backgrounds. With so many breeds to choose from, there’s a perfect canine match for everyone.

In Texas, 43.4% of households have at least one dog. It’s clear that Texans adore their furry friends, sometimes as much as their kids… maybe even more! Dogs, with their interactive nature, quickly become cherished family members.

They need regular walks and attention, offering more emotional connection than many other pets. Whether big or small, energetic or relaxed, dogs have captured the hearts of Texans.

Now, let’s explore the most popular dog breeds in Texas in 2024.

Most Popular Dog Breeds in Texas

1. Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are the top dog breed in 21 states, including Texas. According to US News, Chihuahuas make up 4% of dogs in the country. These tiny dogs are known for their small size, big round eyes, and tendency to shiver. With their perky walk and graceful aura, Chihuahuas love being the center of attention. When they look at you with those twinkling eyes, it’s hard to resist their charm!

Despite their small size, Chihuahuas have bold and fierce personalities. They are alert and brave, never seeming to be scared of anything. Chihuahuas are very vocal and will let you know if someone is coming. They love attention and are loyal to their owners. Although they are often considered lap dogs, they are active and enjoy staying busy.

Chihuahuas are great pets for first-time owners because of their loving and loyal nature. Their small size makes them perfect travel companions, and many accessories are available for them.

2. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus, translated from Chinese to English as “lion dogs,” were originally bred in China as lapdogs for royalty. Centuries later, they still enjoy their pampered lifestyle, thriving on naps in their owners’ laps.

According to HillsPet, Shih Tzus are among the friendliest dog breeds, constantly showing affection and eager to make new friends, both human and animal. Their affectionate nature and adaptability to indoor living make them popular among Texans, especially those in apartments or smaller homes.

With their big, bright eyes and tiny pink tongues, they are undeniably cute but have much more to offer than just their looks. Known for their social demeanor and low exercise needs, Shih Tzus are ideal companions for less active individuals. Whether you live alone or in a big family, Shih Tzus are friendly, loving, and good-natured pets.

3. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are consistently one of the top ten most popular dog breeds in Texas. Known for their long lives and hypoallergenic coats, which are more like human hair than animal fur, they make excellent watchdogs. Yorkies are a true ‘personality breed,’ offering years of laughs, love, and companionship.

A Yorkshire Terrier is a lot of canine in a tiny body. These little dogs often experience “little-dog syndrome,” believing they are much larger than they actually are. A blend of a loving home dog and a sassy Terrier, Yorkies have dynamic and varied personalities, making them one of the few breeds difficult to generalize.

Some Yorkies have an arrogant and pompous personality, showing aggression toward other people and jealousy of their owners. Others are extremely proud yet overtly affectionate, needing to give and receive love constantly. Puppy classes and early socialization can help minimize the development of negative temperaments.

Typically, Yorkshire Terriers are outgoing, high-energy, and social, loving to meet new people and staying full of enthusiasm. However, some may be introverted, aggressive, and grouchy.

4. French Bulldog

The French Bulldog has been named the most popular dog breed in Texas, as well as in eight other states, according to CBS Austin. This rise in popularity isn’t limited to Texas; French Bulldogs are winning hearts nationwide. Registrations for French Bulldogs have increased tenfold since 2012.

French Bulldogs have recently dethroned the Labrador Retriever, ending its 31-year run as America’s popular dog breed. This shift, highlighted by new data from the AKC, reflects a growing trend among city dwellers who favor smaller breeds that fit well with apartment living.

Frenchies are ideal city dogs because they thrive in small spaces, are quiet, and love people. With more people living in apartments in bigger cities, the popularity of French Bulldogs has soared and is likely to continue growing. They adapt well to life with singles, couples, or families and don’t require much outdoor exercise. They get along with other animals and enjoy making new human friends.

5. German Shepherd

According to Kaiser GSD, Texas has a strong bond with the German Shepherd. These powerful yet graceful dogs have captured the hearts of the Dallas community, making them one of the most beloved breeds in the area.

In Texas, where family values run deep and home is seen as a sanctuary, the loyalty and protective instincts of German Shepherds are highly admired. Known for their devotion to family, they serve as both vigilant guardians and cherished companions. Their natural protective instincts align perfectly with the community’s priorities of safety and security.

German Shepherds are also known for their remarkable intelligence and exceptional trainability, making them excellent performers in service roles. In a state that values service and contribution, these dogs excel in various public service roles, including therapy and assistance.

Their ability to be loving family members, trusted assistants, and resilient partners in the Texas heat makes them a popular choice for pet owners. The German Shepherd is a testament to the enduring spirit of Texas.

6. Golden Retriever

It’s easy to see why the family-friendly and lovable Golden Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in Texas.

Golden Retrievers are kind, gentle, and exceptional companions, especially in a family setting. Their affectionate and obedient nature makes them an outstanding choice for a family pet, and they’re known for being great with visitors and children.

Their excellent retrieving skills and high intelligence make them perfect for active families. According to Lynnwood Times, Golden Retrievers are popular due to their kind nature and ease of training. They are also favorites among celebrities like Ryan Reynolds, Nick Jonas, Oprah Winfrey, and Jimmy Fallon.

Golden Retrievers can thrive in the Lone Star State with a little planning and TLC. A Golden Retriever will bring sunshine, laughter, and maybe a whole lot of fur to your Texan life.

7. Beagle

The Beagle is a popular pet in Texas because of its small size, good temperament, and lack of inherited health problems. Beagles are compact and friendly, making them a favorite among Texas families.

According to the AKC, Beagles are not only great hunting dogs and loyal companions but also happy, funny, and cute with their pleading expressions. Bred to hunt in packs, they enjoy company and are generally easygoing.

Beagles are curious and love exploring, fitting well into the Texan outdoor lifestyle with activities like walking and hunting. Their social nature makes them great companions for children and other pets, and their adaptability makes them well-suited for both city and country living in Texas.

8. Australian Shepherd

In Texas, cowboys and ranchers often choose Australian Shepherds to help on their farms and at rodeos. These medium-sized, intelligent, and energetic dogs are so closely associated with the cowboy and rodeo lifestyle that it’s rare to go to a rodeo without seeing them.

Australian Shepherds are a natural fit for Texas, with its farming culture. They excel in herding and agility activities due to their high intelligence and energy. Their versatility as both working dogs and family pets makes them popular among Texans who appreciate a dog that can transition from work to play.

Australian Shepherds are also known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them valued companions in both rural and suburban Texas homes.

9. Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever has been America’s most popular dog breed for the past ten years, and Texas is no exception. Whether black, chocolate, silver, or golden, Labs are known for their active, friendly, and outgoing nature.

Labradors are full of energy and enthusiasm, always ready for adventure, and happiest when exercising with their owners. Their exceptional characteristics and temperament are why they have been the number one dog in the United States for so long.

Labs are versatile dogs, excelling as hunting or service dogs, but above all, they love to please people. Their impressive qualities make them a beloved breed in Texas.

However, if left alone for long periods, Labradors can become destructive and develop separation anxiety. Despite this, their loving and loyal nature secures their spot as one of Texas’s favorite breeds.

10. English Bulldog

The English Bulldog is another popular breed in Texas. With their wrinkly faces, droopy eyes, and saggy jowls, they are incredibly irresistible. Add their hefty bodies dressed in adorable dog clothes, and you have a dog that can instantly melt your heart.

This medium-sized, stocky muscle machine is powerful but has low endurance. Bulldogs are active in short spurts and only need a couple of brief walks per day. While they may not be known as the smartest dog breed, they exhibit many signs of intelligence. They are highly trainable and emotionally intuitive.

English Bulldogs are well-behaved and can be described as “big old sweetie pies.” Their loyalty and dependability make them an excellent family dog, known for their predictability and affection.

Wrap Up

Pet ownership in Texas reflects a love for versatile and gentle dogs. The top dog breeds, including Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, Golden Retrievers, French Bulldogs, Yorkshire Terriers, Labrador Retrievers, English Bulldogs, German Shepherds, and Australian Shepherds, are popular for their adaptability, loyalty, and affectionate nature.

While Texas has Blue Lacy as its official state dog breed, these popular breeds exemplify the traits Texans cherish in their canine companions. Whether in bustling cities or sprawling ranches, these dogs bring joy and companionship to countless households, often alongside rescue cats and other pets.