7 Most Popular Dog Breeds In Michigan In 2024 (2024)

With its beautiful landscapes and welcoming communities, Michigan is truly a paradise for dog lovers. From scenic trails and beaches to charming towns, there are countless pet-friendly activities in the Great Lakes State.

Dogs easily fit into our daily lives, whether it’s running, long car rides, or just cuddling on the couch. They sense our emotions and are always ready to be by our side. This is why dogs are the most beloved pets across America, and Michigan is no different.

In Michigan, 62.4% of residents own pets, and 41.9% of them have dogs. Since 2001, dog ownership has increased by 5.9%. Having a dog positively impacts your body, mind, and emotions.

Michigan residents cherish dogs of all kinds, but some breeds have truly captured their hearts this year. While every dog is special, this guide highlights the most popular dog breed list in Michigan, loved by people all over the state.

Most Popular Dog Breeds in Michigan

1. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers top the popularity charts in Michigan for several reasons. These dogs are highly intelligent and excel in learning new tasks, making them easy to train. This trait is especially beneficial for older owners who might have less time and energy for training.

Golden Retrievers are incredibly calm and relaxed, and they love spending time with their owners. Their affectionate nature makes them perfect family dogs, often offering kisses and cuddles to those who ask nicely.

Physically, Golden Retrievers are strong, agile, and athletic, making them ideal companions for exploring Michigan’s many lakes. They excel at running, swimming, and retrieving items, which makes them great for activities like hunting and fishing.

According to US Service Animals, Golden Retrievers make wonderful therapy dogs. They are gentle, loving, and sensitive, with a natural ability to calm anxious children and help them through stressful situations. These qualities make them a cherished choice among Michigan residents.

2. German Shepherd

German Shepherds are highly popular in Michigan for their intelligence, loyalty, and hardworking nature. It’s no wonder they excel in roles like search-and-rescue and guiding the blind. Their distinctive appearance—pointed ears, bushy tails, and long snouts—makes them easy to recognize.

German Shepherds are loving, affectionate, and great with kids, making them wonderful family pets. While they might be wary of strangers at first, they become very caring and devoted once they get to know you.

ASPCA notes that these dogs shed all year round, earning the nickname “German Shedder.” Regular brushing, at least once a week, helps minimize shedding and keeps their coat healthy. It’s important to be aware that German Shepherds are prone to heart issues, so routine exams are essential for early detection.

German Shepherds need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and prevent boredom, which can lead to unwanted behaviors like excessive barking or chewing. They love the outdoors, so taking them for long walks or playtime in Michigan parks is perfect for keeping them happy and fit.

3. Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are incredibly popular dogs in Michigan for their comical, entertaining, and expressive nature. These loyal little dogs love to burrow under blankets, dance on their hind legs, wave their paws in the air, and lick everything in sight.

One of the main advantages of owning a Chihuahua is their small size, which means they don’t need as much outdoor exercise as larger dogs. This makes them excellent pets for apartment living or smaller homes. Chihuahuas are also good watchdogs, always alert and quick to let their owners know if someone is at the door, even though their size won’t deter intruders.

Chihuahuas are easy to groom and have a long lifespan, typically living between 11 to 20 years, with many reaching over 15 years. They make excellent travel companions, fitting comfortably in a purse or small carrier, making them easy to take just about anywhere.

However, Chihuahuas don’t do well in cold temperatures, which can be a challenge during Michigan’s cold spells. It’s essential to dress them in dog clothes to keep them warm. Patton Vet Hospital points out that, like all breeds, Chihuahuas have specific health issues, with joint problems, particularly in the knees, being a common concern.

4. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are beloved in Michigan for their loyalty and eagerness to please. These affectionate dogs thrive on human attention and make great companions. However, it’s important to note their grooming needs.

With long, silky coats, Shih Tzus requires regular brushing. The good news is they shed minimally, which can balance out the time spent on grooming.

According to PetMD, they are built solidly and enjoy playing in the yard but don’t require extensive exercise. Despite their lively nature, they can easily become overweight if not exercised properly, so keeping an eye on their diet and activity level is crucial. Health issues such as eye disease, ear problems, and back pain are common in Shih Tzus.

They love comfort and attention, making them perfect lap dogs who enjoy snuggling into soft pillows. This affectionate nature makes them ideal pets for senior citizens living in michigan. Shih Tzus doesn’t like being alone for long periods.

5. Goldendoodle

Goldendoodles bring immense joy to many people in Michigan, making them a favorite choice among dog lovers. Known for their friendly and gentle nature, Goldendoodles are excellent with children and other pets, making them perfect for families.

These dogs are highly intelligent and trainable, always eager to please. They are active and enjoy exercise and outdoor activities, making them great companions for those who love being outdoors. Goldendoodles are also incredibly versatile and excel in various activities, including service and therapy work, barn hunts, agility, obedience training, and scent work.

One of the standout features of Goldendoodles is their hypoallergenic, low-shedding coats, making them suitable for people with allergies. According to Nationwide Mutual Insurance, Goldendoodles are almost half as likely (47.4%) to have cancer claims compared to other dogs. They tend to have fewer serious health issues and live longer lives.

Despite their generally friendly and fun-loving nature, some Goldendoodles can be anxious and may prefer to be around their owners constantly. Each dog has its unique personality, and while many are outgoing, some can be more introverted.

6. French Bulldog

French Bulldogs are adored in Michigan for their cuteness and companionship, making them one of the most popular and in-demand dog breeds in the state. With their small stature, large ears, and wrinkly, scrunched faces, French Bulldogs have a distinctive and appealing look.

These affectionate and playful pups make wonderful companions. They aren’t typically aggressive, but they might growl or nip to get attention or express agitation, which can be managed with proper training. Due to their small size and limited mobility, French Bulldogs don’t require much exercise—just a moderate daily walk to keep them healthy and happy.

French Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed, meaning they have a shortened snout, which can cause breathing issues. They are also prone to hip dysplasia, potentially leading to arthritis and difficulty walking or jumping.

Additionally, French Bulldogs are susceptible to allergies, which can cause itching and skin issues like dermatitis or secondary infections of the skin (pyoderma) and ears. MarketWatch reports that while they are undeniably cute and cuddly, these health concerns can lead to higher veterinary costs.

7. Rottweiler

The noble Rottweiler is a well-recognized and popular breed in Michigan. Known for their dependability and hardworking nature, Rottweilers have an aloof yet friendly demeanor. These sturdy, alert dogs are known to observe carefully before deciding how to act.

With proper training and supervision from an early age, they can be wonderful family pets, even in households with children. However, due to their large size and playful nature, they may sometimes be too exuberant during play.

Rottweilers have a strong guarding instinct, making them excellent guard dogs. They can be territorial and protective, but with proper socialization and training, they can become well-behaved and loyal companions. Despite their reputation for being confident and courageous, they are often depicted negatively. This breed is not recommended for first-time dog owners, as they can be headstrong and require an experienced handler.

According to Orvis, though many Rottweilers enjoy lounging around for much of the day, they are working dogs that need regular exercise to burn off their energy.

Wrap Up

The popular breeds in Michigan include a variety of most beloved dog breeds that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. From the intelligent and affectionate Golden Retriever to the charming and playful Chihuahua, these breeds are cherished by many.

The loyal and protective Rottweiler, along with the friendly and versatile Goldendoodle, also ranks high on the list of favorite dog breeds in the state. Notably, the American Kennel Club recognizes these breeds for their distinct qualities and attributes.

While mixed breed dogs also hold a special place in many hearts, it is clear that popular dog breeds like the Labrador Retriever continue to be a favorite among Michigan residents.