The No. 1 dog breed across the United States is the Labrador Retriever, a 2025 study by U.S. News and World Report states, but Hoosiers lean toward a working breed, perhaps not surprising when Indiana leaders dub it, “a state that works.”
According to the American Pet Products Association, 68 million people in the country own dogs. The 2025 study broke down the most popular breeds and doggo names by state.
Top 10 most popular dog breeds in the United States:
American Pit Bull Terrier
The most popular dog breeds in Indiana
According to U.S. News & World Report, the most popular dog in the Hoosier state is a German Shepherd, followed by American Pit Bull Terriers and Golden Retrievers.
German Shepherds are known for their watchdog protective nature, and the American Kennel Club cites their best characteristics as being loyal, having courage, confidence, being able to learn commands for many tasks, and having the willingness to put their life on the line in defense of loved ones. Indiana State Police and Indianapolis Metropolitan Police have used German Shepherds as part of their K9 units.
American Pit Bull Terriers are known for their strength and zest for life, according to the United Kennel Club. They have been noted for their love of children, but because they may exhibit some level of dog aggression, it’s recommended that they be carefully socialized and obedience trained. They don’t make the best guard dogs because they’re friendly in nature with people.
Golden Retrievers make the American Kennel Club‘s list of the best family dogs, since they’re known for their affectionate nature and being more receptive to training. They have a high tolerance for children’s behavior and do generally well with other dogs.
The most popular dog breed in Indianapolis?
Golden Retrievers are the No. 1 most popular breed for the capital city of the Hoosier state, followed by the American Pit Bull Terrier and German Shepherd.
Most popular dog names in the country
The Top 10 most popular names in the U.S. for dogs are Luna, Bella, Charlie, Max, Daisy, Lucy, Coco, Milo, Cooper and Teddy.
Most popular dog names in Indiana
A 2024 report notes the most popular dog names in Indianapolis were Miu, Cinnamon and Zuko.
Jade Jackson is a public safety reporter for the Indianapolis Star. You can email her at Jade.Jackson@IndyStar.com and follow her on X, formerly Twitter @IAMJADEJACKSON.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Working dog tops list of most common breeds in Indiana