10 Most Popular Dog Breeds in Delaware (Updated in 2024)

Delaware’s state dog breed is the Golden Retriever, but that doesn’t mean it’s the most popular dog in the state. Some of Delaware’s popular breeds follow the trends across the country, but there are a few unique picks you wouldn’t expect.

Let’s dive into Delaware’s 10 most popular dog breeds in 2024.

The 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds in Delaware

1. Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retriever dog standing on the lawn — Image Credit: Radomir Rezny, Shutterstock

Origin	Newfoundland, UK
Height	21–25 inches
Temperament	Friendly, affectionate

The Labrador Retriever has been one of the US’s most popular dog breeds for years, so it’s no wonder that this is the most popular in Delaware due to its friendly, outgoing, and high-spirited personality. These dogs were bred as gundogs, but they make amazing family pets and get along with children and other dogs well.

2. German Shepherd

german shepherd dog in the forest — Image Credit: Osetrik, Shutterstock

Origin	Germany
Height	22–26 inches
Temperament	Noble, loyal, hardworking

The German Shepherd is one of the most beloved breeds in Delaware and across the country. This large, all-purpose working breed is loyal, confident, and brave, leading to their roles in everything from police work to military service to farm work. Though these dogs can make excellent companions and guardians, they do require a lot of training to ensure they’re well-adjusted.

3. Golden Retriever

golden retriever happily lying on the grass — Image Credit: Angel Luciano, Unsplash

Origin	UK
Height	21–24 inches
Temperament	Friendly, intelligent, trustworthy

The Golden Retriever is a Scottish gundog breed and the state dog of Delaware. Always one of the most popular dog breeds, Goldens are avid hunters and excel in roles from search and rescue to obedience to service and therapy work. These dogs get along with other dogs and children, making them ideal family pets with a playful personality that lasts from puppyhood to adulthood.

4. Akita

happy akita inu dog resting at the park — Image Credit: Kristina Chizhmar, Shutterstock

Origin	Japan
Height	24–28 inches
Temperament	Quiet, aloof, independent

The Akita is a muscular, large, double-coated Japanese dog that’s renowned for courage and loyalty. They’re often kept as family protectors and companions, though they tend to be wary of other animals and strangers. It’s important to socialize and train an Akita properly to ensure that they have boundaries and structure.

5. Poodle

little white toy poodle dog standing on the lawn — Image Credit: Raywoo, Shutterstock

Origin	Germany, France
Height	Over 15 inches
Temperament	Eager, friendly, smart

The Poodle comes in Standard, Miniature, and Toy varieties, but they all share the same sharp intelligence, versatility, and athleticism. Bred as a water dog, the Poodle does best with a job, but they can adapt to family life with a lot of exercise and stimulation.

6. American Staffordshire Terrier

blue American Staffordshire Terrier dog in a green grass lawn — Image Credit: Kalmar Peter, Shutterstock

Origin	US
Height	17–19 inches
Temperament	Tenacious, friendly, loyal

The American Staffordshire Terrier is a smart, confident, and good-natured dog that’s often kept as a family pet. With their grace and athleticism, the American Staffordshire Terrier makes a great canine competitor in obedience, rallies, and other sports. These dogs are highly trainable, but they require structure and plenty of stimulation.

7. Sloughi

sloughi dog is standing in the grass — Image Credit: Bianca Grueneberg, Shutterstock

Origin	Africa
Height	24–28 inches
Temperament	Sensitive, intelligent, alert

The Sloughi is a North African sighthound that was bred to work on game like gazelle, jackal, and wild pigs. Like other sighthounds, the Sloughi is lean, graceful, and athletic. Though they’re a primitive hunting breed, the Sloughi is attentive, loyal, and desires a lot of time with their owner.

8. Norwegian Lundehund

Norwegian lundehund dog outdoors — Image Credit: Makabas, Shutterstock

Origin	Vaeroy, Norway
Height	12–15 inches
Temperament	Energetic, alert, loyal

The Norwegian Lundehund is the only dog breed that was created to hunt puffins. Now that the bird is a protected species, Norwegian Lundehunds are kept as companions and canine athletes. Like other northern breeds, the Lundehund displays typical spitz features with some unique adaptations, including six full toes, extra paw pads, and an “elastic” neck that can crane back and touch the spine. They also have flexible shoulders and a rotary gait that is unique among dogs.

9. English Foxhound

Origin	England
Height	21–25 inches
Temperament	Sociable, gentle, affectionate

The English Foxhound is a solid hunting dog with plenty of stamina and a strong pack instinct. These scent dogs are gentle and sociable, but they’re not often kept as mere house pets. They thrive on hunting and pursuing prey, so it can be challenging to keep them occupied in a quiet home environment.

10. French Bulldog

fawn french bulldog walking on grass — Image Credit: Irina Nedikova, Shutterstock

Origin	France
Height	11–13 inches
Temperament	Bright, playful, sociable

The French Bulldog has recently dethroned the Labrador as the most popular dog in the US. They’re also popular in Delaware, especially in the city. These alert, playful, and adorable dogs look like a miniature version of the popular Bulldog, except they have massive bat ears that give them a charming expression. One of the most versatile breeds, the French Bulldog can adapt to life with couples, families, singles, and other dogs and cats in the city or country.

Conclusion

While some of the state’s most popular dogs are classic choices, including the family-friendly Golden Retriever and the classic German Shepherd, there are some unique entries on the list. If you’re interested in bringing home one of these popular breeds in Delaware, be sure to do your research and determine if it’s the right breed for you.

Sources

Featured Image Credit: Hollysdogs, Shutterstock