The French bulldog has risen to the top of the list of most popular dog breeds in the United States.

The American Kennel Club reports a new preferred dog breed for the first time in 30 years.

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The strong, push-faced, perky-eared, world-weary-looking, and notably droll French bulldog won the nation's most popular purebred dog last year, the group revealed Wednesday.

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Frenchies surpassed Labrador retrievers after 31 years.

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“They’re comical, friendly, loving little dogs,” says French Bull Dog Club of America spokesperson Patty Sosa.

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The Frenchie's rapid rise—it wasn't in the top 75 a quarter-century ago—worries lovers and critics.

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Last month's deadly shooting of a 76-year-old South Carolina breeder and the 2021 shooting of a California dog walker who was stealing Lady Gaga's canines were bulldog thefts.

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Demand and the premium some purchasers pay for “exotic” coat colors and textures may encourage quick-buck breeders and sick dogs.

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The breed's popularity is raising questions about whether breeding dogs with breathing, spinal, eye, and skin issues is healthy.

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The BVA advises against buying Frenchies and other flat-faced breeds.

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Following the Labrador retriever, the AKC top five contains German shepherds, golden retrievers, French bulldogs, and bulldogs.

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