With over 350 recognised breeds, you would think we would all choose a different kind. Nothing could be further from the truth: there still remain many popular dog breeds in the Netherlands. Which you just barely see walking on every street corner.
The Top 10 popular dog breeds (of the Netherlands) below were compiled based on the number of registrations at the Raad van Beheer. Here, all official pedigree dogs are indicated and this list is therefore very reliable in terms of composition.
The full top 10 popular dog breeds
Labrador Retriever
German shepherd
Golden Retriever
Bernese Mountain Dog
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Chihuahua
Boxer
French Bulldog
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
English Bulldog
Why are these dog breeds so popular?
Reliability! We all want the most reliable breed possible. With the labrador retriever (and the golden retriever too, for that matter), you are right on target. Loyal, sweet & patient are the keywords of a retriever. Ideal for family life. But the labrador retriever is also particularly suitable as a guide dog or rescue dog.
The German shepherd is just as doglike as the retriever and also incredibly intelligent and obedient. You can therefore teach a shepherd dog quickly, which appeals to many people.
The Bernese Mountain Dog is, if possible, an even bigger lubber than the retrievers. Because of its large size, the largest in the list of popular dog breeds, only slightly less popular. Nice if you want to walk less, because they don't have as much energy as a retriever or a shepherd.
You might not have expected the Staffordshure in this list. They were once bred to fight bulls and are therefore extra strong and come across as somewhat aggressive. But they are not! Give them enough attention and they will love you and your children. The boxer is just as good to families & children.
Small popular dog breeds
A literal minor exception in the line of popular dog breeds so far: the chihuahua. Hugely popular since Paris Hilton always carries one on her arm. The chihuahua is known as always cheerful and although small, it is certainly not afraid of its larger peers. Be careful with children though, they are very fragile.
Slightly larger, but still small and manageable is the French bulldog, which has been making inroads in the Netherlands in recent years. Energetic, sweet and above all stubborn, just like the English bulldog (at number 10). The Cavalier King Charlies Spaniel has the same characteristics, but is even more affectionate than the French bullies.
