Labs, which the New York-based registry describes as “famously friendly” and “an enthusiastic athlete”, had been the most popular dog breed for 31 years prior to 2022.
But Frenchies had “been quietly climbing the charts for many years”, the AKC said in a statement.
The small-dog breed, which, like Labs, are considered great pets for families, are described by AKC as “one of a kind”, with their trademark feature being their “large bat ears”.
“They get on well with other animals and enjoy making new friends of the human variety,” the AKC said, adding: “It is no wonder that city folk from Paris to Peoria swear by this vastly amusing and companionable breed.”
The Frenchie held the No. 14 spot in the 2012 ranking. Since then, registrations have climbed tenfold, the club said on its website.
“What’s not to love about them? They’re great companions, cute and show great affection,” breeder Johnny Danley Jr from Atlanta told Reuters.
Danley started breeding French bulldogs for about a dozen years as a hobby, selling to friends, before he opened his own business, Damn Danley Kennels, in 2018.
“I’ve heard of some selling for US$1 million. But we sell to blue-collar, 9-to-5 people who want to spend a little for a great companion,” Danley said.
After Frenchies and Labs, rounding out the top five breeds for 2022 were the Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, and Poodle. Pulling up the rear at No. 199 is the English foxhound.
“Those are all great dogs,” said Ersylan Hughen, breeder and co-owner of Royale French Bulldogs in the Atlanta suburb of Union City.
“I love Labs, don’t get me wrong,” he added. “But Frenchies are the best. They’re like little people. When they look at you, they just melt your heart.”
Danley acknowledged that some of the pint-sized Frenchies can have health problems affecting the respiratory system and spinal cord. But the risks are much lower when only healthy dogs are used for breeding, he said.
French Bulldogs – like their English cousins and squish-faced pugs – have a short snout, which can lead to trouble breathing and other complications.
In January, the Dutch agriculture minister said he would seek to ban ownership of animals which “suffer from his or her appearance”.
The Netherlands banned the breeding of pets that are affected by their appearance in 2014, but some animals are still being traded illegally or bought from abroad.
Frenchies also made headlines in 2021 when pop star Lady Gaga had two French Bulldogs stolen while a dog-walker was taking them for a stroll.
They were later returned, while the three robbers were later caught and jailed for the incident.