Germany's 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds (VDH 2023 Rankings)

Per the Verband für das Deutsche Hundewesen (VDH)—Germany's kennel club—the top registered breeds are:

1. German Shepherd (Deutscher Schäferhund) – iconic, versatile, #1 for decades
2. Labrador Retriever – family favorite, guide/therapy work
3. Golden Retriever – gentle, popular for families & assistance
4. French Bulldog – urban boom; brachycephalic concerns
5. Cocker Spaniel – English & American types; hunting roots
6. Miniature Schnauzer – terrier group; alert, low-shed
7. Boxer – playful, protective; German origin
8. Jack Russell Terrier – high-energy, working terrier
9. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – companion toy breed
10. Chihuahua – tiny, long-lived; urban popularity

Note: Registrations ≠ total population (many unregistered). Trends: French Bulldogs surged; GSDs steady; Dachshunds, Poodles, Border Collies just outside top 10.