Labs Still No. 1, but a Rival Is Gaining Ground

America still loves its Labs, but it's growing ever more fond of its bulldogs. The American Kennel Club released its annual rankings of the most popular dogs in the nation, and, surprise, surprise, Labrador retrievers were at the top of the list for the 24th consecutive year, reports AP. But bulldogs continued their steady rise, moving up one spot from last year to No. 4. Their cousins, French bulldogs, also cracked the top 10. The rankings:

1. Labrador retriever
2. German shepherd
3. Golden retriever
4. Bulldog
5. Beagle
6. Yorkshire terrier
7. Poodle
8. Boxer
9. French bulldog
10. Rottweiler

So what's behind the rise of the bulldog? "This gentle breed makes an excellent family companion with a natural tendency to form strong bonds with kids, an easy-to-care-for coat, and minimal exercise needs," says the AKC. So while the Lab remains No. 1 for now, "watch out for an upset next year," says AKC exec Gina DiNardo. (More dogs stories.)