For the 27th year in a row, the Labrador Retriever topped the American Kennel Club's list of the most popular dog breeds in America—and with good reason. Not only are Labs cute and friendly, but they're also great with kids and can save lives.

"The Labrador Retriever has a strong hold on the top spot, and doesn't show signs of giving it up anytime soon," said AKC Vice President Gina DiNardo in a statement last year. "The Lab is such a versatile dog that it's no wonder it makes a great companion for a variety of lifestyles."

After a German Shepherd won last year's Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, it should come as no surprise that this smart canine held onto the second spot on the list this year.

While America doesn't look like it'll stop loving Labs and German Shepherds anytime soon, they might have some competition. The French bulldog is gaining popularity by taking the #4 spot on the list for 2018.

“The French bulldog is poised for a takeover,” DiNardo said in a statement, noting the breed’s "adaptability" and "lovable temperament" that make it appealing to so many people.

See the full list of breeds ranked here.

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Kelly O'Sullivan
Senior Editor
Kelly O’Sullivan is the senior editor for The Pioneer Woman and manages the website’s social channels, in addition to overseeing content strategy and news.