AP Photo/Michael Conroy
Dog food is shown in a pet store in Westfield, Ind., Tuesday, July 19, 2022.
In 2018, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, acting on input from a group of veterinary researchers, began investigating whether the increasing popularity of grain-free dog foods had led to a sudden rise in a potentially fatal heart disease in dogs, dilated cardiomyopathy.
Four years later, the FDA has found no firm link between diet and dilated cardiomyopathy. Nor has it rejected such a link, and research is ongoing. Publicity surrounding this issue, nevertheless, has shrunk the once-promising market for grain-free dog foods.
Furthermore, a tangled web of industry funding and interests appears to have influenced the origin, data collection, and course of the FDA study, according to internal FDA records.
A six-month investigation by 100Reporters has found that veterinarians who prompted the FDA to consider diet have financial and other ties to the leading sellers of grain-inclusive pet foods. Additionally, agency records show that for the initial study, some vets were instructed to submit only dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) cases that implicated grain-free, “exotic” or “boutique” pet foods. Suppliers of ingredients used in grain-free dog foods have also exerted pressure on the FDA to protect their market.
Consequently, the conversation around DCM and grain-free food is deeply divided, with each side claiming the other is prioritizing industry relationships over scientific integrity and the lives of pets.
“This became such an emotional issue,” said Dana Brooks, CEO of the Pet Food Institute, whose members produce most pet foods in the US. “We’re scrambling to try to even determine what’s going on.”
CAUSE FOR CONCERN
Grain-free pet diets became popular in the early 2000s, relying heavily on pulses — seeds from legume plants including peas, beans and lentils. By 2019, grain-free kibble represented 43 percent of dry pet foods sold.
Until 2017, the FDA saw one to three reports of DCM annually. But between January 1 and July 10, 2018, it received 25 cases. Seven reports came from a single source, animal nutritionist Lisa Freeman from Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, an FDA spokesperson said. FDA records obtained under the Freedom of Information Act, however, indicate those reports may not have been fully representative of cases seen at the Tufts clinic.
AP Photo/John Raoux
Various types of dog food are seen on display in a supermarket Tuesday, July 19, 2022, in Orlando, Fla.
In a June 2018 email to FDA veterinary medical officer Jennifer Jones, Freeman attached a document instructing vets to report cases to the FDA, “If patient is eating any diet besides those made by well-known, reputable companies or if eating a boutique, exotic ingredient, or grain-free (BEG) diet.”
When asked if this could be perceived as cherry-picking data that would shape the inquiry, Freeman stated through Tufts media relations: “The protocol in that email was developed for and intended to help veterinary cardiologists in the early stages of the investigation into potential associations between diet and dilated cardiomyopathy.”
“I shared the protocol with the FDA to inform them of what our clinical recommendations for patients were at that time,” Freeman wrote, noting they’re “continuing to study” any diet with ingredients linked to DCM “regardless of manufacturer.”
In an email, an FDA spokesperson wrote, “The FDA has never requested that DCM cases reported to the agency be limited to certain diet types. We welcome all DCM reports with a suspected link to food, regardless of the type of diet.”
According to PubMed.gov, Freeman has received funding from leading sellers of grain-inclusive foods, including Nestle Purina Petcare, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, and Mars Petcare, since 2002. Her recent conflict-of-interest declarations state: “In the last 3 years, Dr. Freeman has received research funding from, given sponsored lectures for, and/or provided professional services to Aratana Therapeutics, Elanco, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Nestlé Purina PetCare, P&G Pet Care (now Mars), and Royal Canin.”
Industry funding is common in animal nutrition science. Freeman said she stands behind her research and has ” transparently disclosed the sources of funding for the work I conduct on this topic.”
Two veterinary cardiologists—Darcy Adin from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine and Joshua Stern from the University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine—also collaborated with the FDA.
Emails from a public records request indicate that in April 2018, Jones spoke with Freeman, Stern and Adin about grain-free dog foods and DCM and requested spreadsheets of their clinical case data.
AP Photo/Michael Conroy
Dog food is shown in a pet store in Westfield, Ind., Tuesday, July 19, 2022.
Adin has been involved in studies funded by Purina since 2018 and, since 2017, by the Morris Animal Foundation, an animal health charity created by the founder of Hill’s and chaired by a Hill’s employee.
University of Florida’s public relations said neither Adin nor the university received direct financial support from the companies for these studies.
Stern has authored studies funded by the Morris Animal Foundation since 2011, and currently receives funding from the foundation.
“I completely understand conflict-of-interest concerns with people being funded by the pet food industry,” Stern said. “It’s hard to find a veterinary nutritionist that hasn’t done research for pet food companies.”
Purina, Hill’s and Mars didn’t respond to multiple requests for comment.
In July 2018, the FDA announced its investigation, noting many of the 25 dogs diagnosed lacked a genetic predisposition to DCM. The common thread, it said, appeared to be a grain-free diet.
A year later, the FDA took the unusual step of naming 16 dog foods, nearly all grain-free, that appeared most frequently in their DCM case reports. “We’ve never seen anything like that before without a certainty of the cause,” said Brooks.
Joseph Bartges, professor of animal nutrition at the University of Georgia, wasn’t surprised, noting the FDA flagged grain-free food early on. “When you only look for what you want to see, you only see what you look for,” Bartges said. By July 2020, reports of DCM numbered 1,100 — likely resulting from the FDA encouraging people to report the disease,” said Brooks.
INFLUENTIAL INDUSTRY
Suppliers of ingredients for grain-free foods, in turn, marshaled forces to protect their market share.
In its 2019 annual report, the USA Dry Pea & Lentil Council said it “convinced the FDA to clarify their language about their concerns and minimize the damage to the industry.”
In a 2019 letter to FDA officials, Sen. Jon Tester from Montana — a principal growing region for pulses— complained the agency’s “unsubstantiated warning” had hurt pulse farmers. The following year, seven senators signed another letter to the FDA flagging potential “bias about causation of this disease.”
AP Photo/Marta Lavandier
Bags of dog food are displayed at a supermarket Tuesday, July, 19, 2022, in Miami, Fla.
The FDA has continuously stated that DCM involves multiple factors. Shortly after that letter, Steven Solomon, director of the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM), emphasized this point, describing DCM as “a scientifically complex, multifaceted issue,” adding that “we . . . currently do not view this as a regulatory issue.”
An FDA spokesperson wrote that while it met with stakeholders, “Ultimately, all FDA decisions and work are guided by science, data, and our public health mission.”
Regardless of the investigation’s ultimate findings, sales of grain-free dry dog foods have fallen since June 2018 and decreased by $60 million from 2021 to 2022. Meanwhile, grain-inclusive sales spiked in 2019 and rose by $700 million from 2020 to 2021.
Getting an answer about DCM will be difficult thanks to the complexity of the science and industry influence, said Marion Nestle, author of Pet Food Politics. “They’re all trying to protect their market share.”
This article is an abridged version of an investigation produced by 100Reporters, a nonprofit investigative news organization, with financial support from the Fund for Investigative Journalism and legal guidance from the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press.
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10 superfoods for dogs from your very own kitchen
Stickler // Shutterstock
Staying healthy and fit is just as important for dogs as it is for humans. The growing popularity of natural pet food and homemade treats suggests that pet parents are becoming more mindful of what is healthy for their animal pals. On a global scale, the organic and natural pet food market has become a $22.8 billion industry.
Using research from various studies and internet resources, Native Pet compiled a list of 10 superfoods found in most kitchens that can double as healthy snacks for dogs and their people.
In the U.S., according to the latest data available from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, pet owners in the U.S. spent more than $118 billion on their pets in 2020, and the American Pet Products Association, an industry trade group, estimates even more growth took place in 2021, with the industry cresting $123 billion. APPA found dog owners spend about $287 on average on pet food per year.
But not all foods are the same—sometimes dogs need a little extra something to keep their diet healthy. “Superfoods,” or foods that are nutrient-rich, have gained popularity in the 21st century, with the global market projected to reach about $215 billion by 2027, according to Mordor Intelligence, a market research firm.
While there is no scientific definition of a superfood, they are generally believed to promote health or prevent disease because of high levels of antioxidants, fiber, or other nutritional benefits, according to Cleveland Clinic, a nonprofit American academic medical center. These foods can supplement a nutrient-deficient diet or serve as a delightful treat. However, even with nutritious “superfoods,” moderation is essential. The 10% rule, which states that treats should account for no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories, is a good rule of thumb to follow.
Read on for 10 superfoods from your own kitchen that dogs can enjoy.
Stickler // Shutterstock
Staying healthy and fit is just as important for dogs as it is for humans. The growing popularity of natural pet food and homemade treats suggests that pet parents are becoming more mindful of what is healthy for their animal pals. On a global scale, the organic and natural pet food market has become a $22.8 billion industry.
Using research from various studies and internet resources, Native Pet compiled a list of 10 superfoods found in most kitchens that can double as healthy snacks for dogs and their people.
In the U.S., according to the latest data available from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, pet owners in the U.S. spent more than $118 billion on their pets in 2020, and the American Pet Products Association, an industry trade group, estimates even more growth took place in 2021, with the industry cresting $123 billion. APPA found dog owners spend about $287 on average on pet food per year.
But not all foods are the same—sometimes dogs need a little extra something to keep their diet healthy. “Superfoods,” or foods that are nutrient-rich, have gained popularity in the 21st century, with the global market projected to reach about $215 billion by 2027, according to Mordor Intelligence, a market research firm.
While there is no scientific definition of a superfood, they are generally believed to promote health or prevent disease because of high levels of antioxidants, fiber, or other nutritional benefits, according to Cleveland Clinic, a nonprofit American academic medical center. These foods can supplement a nutrient-deficient diet or serve as a delightful treat. However, even with nutritious “superfoods,” moderation is essential. The 10% rule, which states that treats should account for no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories, is a good rule of thumb to follow.
Read on for 10 superfoods from your own kitchen that dogs can enjoy.
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10 superfoods for dogs from your very own kitchen
Ramblin Dawgs // Shutterstock
These delightfully juicy berries are rich in minerals and vitamins, low in calories, and high in fiber. They also have one of the highest levels of antioxidants among most of the commonly consumed fruits in the U.S.
Blueberries are great treats but should be moderated. The amount dog owners give to their pets depends on the dog’s size. For small dogs, 10 blueberries is an appropriate amount. Larger dogs can have more, but the 10% rule should be followed.
Because blueberries are so small, a big dog can easily eat too many of them. They often tend to swallow food without chewing, and this can result in stomach pain or create a choking hazard. If the berries are gulped down or fed frozen, little dogs can choke, too. Hand-feeding can slow them down and help prevent choking.
Ramblin Dawgs // Shutterstock
These delightfully juicy berries are rich in minerals and vitamins, low in calories, and high in fiber. They also have one of the highest levels of antioxidants among most of the commonly consumed fruits in the U.S.
Blueberries are great treats but should be moderated. The amount dog owners give to their pets depends on the dog’s size. For small dogs, 10 blueberries is an appropriate amount. Larger dogs can have more, but the 10% rule should be followed.
Because blueberries are so small, a big dog can easily eat too many of them. They often tend to swallow food without chewing, and this can result in stomach pain or create a choking hazard. If the berries are gulped down or fed frozen, little dogs can choke, too. Hand-feeding can slow them down and help prevent choking.
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10 superfoods for dogs from your very own kitchen
Courtesy of Anya Grunewald
Humans enjoy bone broth, and it’s also gaining popularity in the dog world. This nutrient-dense broth is a great source of collagen, a protein found in the connective tissues of animal bones that aids in regenerating skin, hair, joints, and leaky gut. It is also rich in vitamins, minerals, glycine, and glucosamine.
A healthy serving of bone broth is 1 ounce of broth for every 10 pounds of a dog’s body weight. For example, a single serving size for a 100-pound dog is 10 ounces, and your pet can have as many as two portions daily. Dog owners can serve it as an afternoon snack or pour it over the dog’s meal.
Courtesy of Anya Grunewald
Humans enjoy bone broth, and it’s also gaining popularity in the dog world. This nutrient-dense broth is a great source of collagen, a protein found in the connective tissues of animal bones that aids in regenerating skin, hair, joints, and leaky gut. It is also rich in vitamins, minerals, glycine, and glucosamine.
A healthy serving of bone broth is 1 ounce of broth for every 10 pounds of a dog’s body weight. For example, a single serving size for a 100-pound dog is 10 ounces, and your pet can have as many as two portions daily. Dog owners can serve it as an afternoon snack or pour it over the dog’s meal.
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10 superfoods for dogs from your very own kitchen
Christian Mueller // Shutterstock
Carrots are low-fat and low-calorie treats rich in vitamin A, potassium, and fiber, among other vitamins. Like other vegetables and fruits, they contain natural sugar, and too much sugar can result in obesity and dental decay. They also contain high levels of fiber, which, if introduced too quickly, can cause an upset stomach.
It’s advisable for dog owners to introduce this treat slowly and provide enough drinking water. Carrots, like other treats, should make up less than 10% of your pup’s daily calorie intake. An average-sized dog can safely consume two or three baby carrots per day. These carrots should be cleaned and peeled to remove any dirt or pesticides, and they should be chopped into bite-sized pieces to reduce choking hazards.
Christian Mueller // Shutterstock
Carrots are low-fat and low-calorie treats rich in vitamin A, potassium, and fiber, among other vitamins. Like other vegetables and fruits, they contain natural sugar, and too much sugar can result in obesity and dental decay. They also contain high levels of fiber, which, if introduced too quickly, can cause an upset stomach.
It’s advisable for dog owners to introduce this treat slowly and provide enough drinking water. Carrots, like other treats, should make up less than 10% of your pup’s daily calorie intake. An average-sized dog can safely consume two or three baby carrots per day. These carrots should be cleaned and peeled to remove any dirt or pesticides, and they should be chopped into bite-sized pieces to reduce choking hazards.
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10 superfoods for dogs from your very own kitchen
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Chia seeds have become one of the hottest superfoods in the world. These tiny seeds are packed with many beneficial nutrients. Dogs only need a small amount: 1/4 teaspoon daily per 10 pounds of body weight is a healthy serving for a fido.
Chia seeds’ mild taste and smell make them appealing to dogs, even the picky ones. They are high in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber, and are a good source of several vital minerals. These seeds aid brain function, help dogs develop strong and healthy bones, reduce inflammation, and keep their coat healthy and shiny.
Canva
Chia seeds have become one of the hottest superfoods in the world. These tiny seeds are packed with many beneficial nutrients. Dogs only need a small amount: 1/4 teaspoon daily per 10 pounds of body weight is a healthy serving for a fido.
Chia seeds’ mild taste and smell make them appealing to dogs, even the picky ones. They are high in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber, and are a good source of several vital minerals. These seeds aid brain function, help dogs develop strong and healthy bones, reduce inflammation, and keep their coat healthy and shiny.
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10 superfoods for dogs from your very own kitchen
Canva
Like blueberries and chia seeds, coconut oil has become popular as a superfood for humans. Still, there’s some controversy on whether it’s everything it claims to be.
In dogs, coconut oil can boost energy levels, aid digestion, reduce allergic reactions, and improve the dog’s skin. Coconut oil should be given to dogs one to two times per day with meals, and the dog’s size should determine how much is given.
Veterinarians suggest a starting dose of 1/4 teaspoon for small dogs and 1 tablespoon for big dogs. After two weeks, if your dog tolerates it well, it can be increased to 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds. The wonderful thing about coconut oil is its adaptability. Since it can be given orally, dog owners don’t have to worry if dogs lick themselves after it has been applied.
Canva
Like blueberries and chia seeds, coconut oil has become popular as a superfood for humans. Still, there’s some controversy on whether it’s everything it claims to be.
In dogs, coconut oil can boost energy levels, aid digestion, reduce allergic reactions, and improve the dog’s skin. Coconut oil should be given to dogs one to two times per day with meals, and the dog’s size should determine how much is given.
Veterinarians suggest a starting dose of 1/4 teaspoon for small dogs and 1 tablespoon for big dogs. After two weeks, if your dog tolerates it well, it can be increased to 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds. The wonderful thing about coconut oil is its adaptability. Since it can be given orally, dog owners don’t have to worry if dogs lick themselves after it has been applied.
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10 superfoods for dogs from your very own kitchen
Viktoriia Bu // Shutterstock
Cucumbers contain vitamins A and K, potassium, and magnesium, all of which are essential components of a healthy canine diet. Cucumbers can help eliminate dogs’ bad breath and keep their bones, kidneys, and liver strong and healthy.
They are also low-calorie vegetables made up of 95% water. One cup of chopped cucumbers contains around 16 calories, making cucumbers a great option for dogs that need to lose weight. While feeding your dog cucumber is perfectly safe, it’s best to stick with the 10% rule to avoid an upset digestive system. This crunchy vegetable is a tasty and hydrating summer treat after a vigorous walk.
Viktoriia Bu // Shutterstock
Cucumbers contain vitamins A and K, potassium, and magnesium, all of which are essential components of a healthy canine diet. Cucumbers can help eliminate dogs’ bad breath and keep their bones, kidneys, and liver strong and healthy.
They are also low-calorie vegetables made up of 95% water. One cup of chopped cucumbers contains around 16 calories, making cucumbers a great option for dogs that need to lose weight. While feeding your dog cucumber is perfectly safe, it’s best to stick with the 10% rule to avoid an upset digestive system. This crunchy vegetable is a tasty and hydrating summer treat after a vigorous walk.
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10 superfoods for dogs from your very own kitchen
KPhrom // Shutterstock
Eggs are one of the most nutrient-dense foods available. They are packed with amino acids, fatty acids, and vitamins, and are an excellent source of nutrients for dogs—though, the source of the egg does make a difference. Eggs from free-range or pastured chickens are healthier and rich in vitamins and minerals.
Eggs are easy to digest, which is helpful for dogs with sensitive stomachs, and they can help keep dogs’ coats shiny and sleek. Large dogs can have an entire egg daily, while smaller dogs should be limited to one small egg per week and no more than 1/4 of an egg each day. There are some restrictions on eating eggs for dogs with pre-existing health conditions like acute pancreatitis or diabetes. It’s best to run it by a veterinarian before feeding your dog eggs.
KPhrom // Shutterstock
Eggs are one of the most nutrient-dense foods available. They are packed with amino acids, fatty acids, and vitamins, and are an excellent source of nutrients for dogs—though, the source of the egg does make a difference. Eggs from free-range or pastured chickens are healthier and rich in vitamins and minerals.
Eggs are easy to digest, which is helpful for dogs with sensitive stomachs, and they can help keep dogs’ coats shiny and sleek. Large dogs can have an entire egg daily, while smaller dogs should be limited to one small egg per week and no more than 1/4 of an egg each day. There are some restrictions on eating eggs for dogs with pre-existing health conditions like acute pancreatitis or diabetes. It’s best to run it by a veterinarian before feeding your dog eggs.
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10 superfoods for dogs from your very own kitchen
Soloviova Liudmyla // Shutterstock
Fish can be a nutritious addition to a dog’s diet, but only certain types of fish are healthy for dogs to eat. Fish can be an excellent source of protein that is easily digestible for dogs, particularly those prone to upset stomachs. It is also an excellent alternative for dogs with allergies or intolerances to common pet food ingredients such as chicken.
Because it is relatively low in saturated fats, it’s a great option for dogs on a weight loss diet and is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation and keep the skin and coat healthy. Fish contain vitamins and minerals that strengthen dogs’ immune systems and can contribute to joint health. But be warned: Fish must be cooked without any additional oil or seasoning.
Soloviova Liudmyla // Shutterstock
Fish can be a nutritious addition to a dog’s diet, but only certain types of fish are healthy for dogs to eat. Fish can be an excellent source of protein that is easily digestible for dogs, particularly those prone to upset stomachs. It is also an excellent alternative for dogs with allergies or intolerances to common pet food ingredients such as chicken.
Because it is relatively low in saturated fats, it’s a great option for dogs on a weight loss diet and is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation and keep the skin and coat healthy. Fish contain vitamins and minerals that strengthen dogs’ immune systems and can contribute to joint health. But be warned: Fish must be cooked without any additional oil or seasoning.
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10 superfoods for dogs from your very own kitchen
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Green beans are not only safe for dogs to eat, vets recommend them as a nutritious snack as well. They are full of essential vitamins and minerals like protein, iron, calcium, and vitamins B6, A, C, and K. They are the perfect snack for keeping a dog in shape; they are full of fiber and low in calories.
The “green bean diet” is a healthy trend that helps dog owners keep their dogs fit by substituting 10% of dog food with green beans. After every two days, they increase the amount by 10% until half of the dog’s dry food has been replaced with green beans. Dogs can be fed green beans chopped, steamed, or raw as long as they are plain.
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Green beans are not only safe for dogs to eat, vets recommend them as a nutritious snack as well. They are full of essential vitamins and minerals like protein, iron, calcium, and vitamins B6, A, C, and K. They are the perfect snack for keeping a dog in shape; they are full of fiber and low in calories.
The “green bean diet” is a healthy trend that helps dog owners keep their dogs fit by substituting 10% of dog food with green beans. After every two days, they increase the amount by 10% until half of the dog’s dry food has been replaced with green beans. Dogs can be fed green beans chopped, steamed, or raw as long as they are plain.
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10 superfoods for dogs from your very own kitchen
NancyP5 // Shutterstock
Pumpkin is high in fiber and vital micronutrients, making it an exceptionally healthy snack. Pumpkin contains vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like iron and potassium. What’s more, pumpkin seeds contain the amino acid cucurbitin, which paralyzes and eliminates parasites in your dog’s digestive tract.
Pumpkin is a natural stomach soother and helps remove excess water in the digestive tract. Adding pumpkin is also a healthy way to bulk out a dog’s diet without adding many calories. Adding between 1-4 tablespoons of pumpkin per meal to a large dog's diet is adequate to avoid adding too much fiber while meeting the dog’s nutritional needs. For smaller dogs, the max amount should be 1/2 teaspoon daily.
This story originally appeared on Native Pet and was produced and distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio.
NancyP5 // Shutterstock
Pumpkin is high in fiber and vital micronutrients, making it an exceptionally healthy snack. Pumpkin contains vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like iron and potassium. What’s more, pumpkin seeds contain the amino acid cucurbitin, which paralyzes and eliminates parasites in your dog’s digestive tract.
Pumpkin is a natural stomach soother and helps remove excess water in the digestive tract. Adding pumpkin is also a healthy way to bulk out a dog’s diet without adding many calories. Adding between 1-4 tablespoons of pumpkin per meal to a large dog's diet is adequate to avoid adding too much fiber while meeting the dog’s nutritional needs. For smaller dogs, the max amount should be 1/2 teaspoon daily.
This story originally appeared on Native Pet and was produced and distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Which do you like better, cats or dogs? If you chose dogs, you’re in the majority: 74% of adults said they like dogs a lot, while only 41% of adults said the same about cats, according to a poll conducted by the Associated Press. That’s not to suggest dogs are inherently better than their feline friends. Evolutionarily speaking, cats have actually been more successful, with superior hunting skills enabling survival even when food is scarce. On the other hand, science suggests dogs are smarter than cats because their cerebral cortexes contain twice as many neurons.
There may never be a clear answer, but for the majority who prefer man’s best friend, Stacker has compiled a list of the top 35 dog breeds with the most timeless popularity. Using data from the American Kennel Club, we averaged each breed’s level of popularity in 1940 with its popularity in 2021. This analysis excluded any new breed introduced since 1940 and is based on data released on March 15, 2022, the most recent data available. Any ties were decided by the breed that ranked highest in 2021.
Click through to find out if your favorite dog was just as beloved 80 years ago.
You may also like: Things to consider when adopting a pet
Canva
Which do you like better, cats or dogs? If you chose dogs, you’re in the majority: 74% of adults said they like dogs a lot, while only 41% of adults said the same about cats, according to a poll conducted by the Associated Press. That’s not to suggest dogs are inherently better than their feline friends. Evolutionarily speaking, cats have actually been more successful, with superior hunting skills enabling survival even when food is scarce. On the other hand, science suggests dogs are smarter than cats because their cerebral cortexes contain twice as many neurons.
There may never be a clear answer, but for the majority who prefer man’s best friend, Stacker has compiled a list of the top 35 dog breeds with the most timeless popularity. Using data from the American Kennel Club, we averaged each breed’s level of popularity in 1940 with its popularity in 2021. This analysis excluded any new breed introduced since 1940 and is based on data released on March 15, 2022, the most recent data available. Any ties were decided by the breed that ranked highest in 2021.
Click through to find out if your favorite dog was just as beloved 80 years ago.
You may also like: Things to consider when adopting a pet
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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- Average rank: 44.5
- 1940 rank: 44
- 2021 rank: 45
Newfoundlands are known for their large size, which is enhanced by their heavy double-coat. They are also characterized by their sweet and gentle personality. While they may seem like the perfect pet, one of the Newfoundlands’ less desirable traits is their tendency to drool.
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- Average rank: 44.5
- 1940 rank: 44
- 2021 rank: 45
Newfoundlands are known for their large size, which is enhanced by their heavy double-coat. They are also characterized by their sweet and gentle personality. While they may seem like the perfect pet, one of the Newfoundlands’ less desirable traits is their tendency to drool.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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- Average rank: 44.5
- 1940 rank: 43
- 2021 rank: 46
Called Westie for short, the West Highland White Terrier descends from a group of terriers bred to seek out vermin. As a result, they may share ancestors with cairn terriers and Scottish terriers. Though they look like soft stuffed animals, their outer coat is actually wiry and coarse.
Canva
- Average rank: 44.5
- 1940 rank: 43
- 2021 rank: 46
Called Westie for short, the West Highland White Terrier descends from a group of terriers bred to seek out vermin. As a result, they may share ancestors with cairn terriers and Scottish terriers. Though they look like soft stuffed animals, their outer coat is actually wiry and coarse.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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- Average rank: 43
- 1940 rank: 67
- 2021 rank: 19
As their name hints, Siberian Huskies originated from Siberia. They were bred to have serious endurance and a thick coat to withstand severe winters. These wolf-like dogs have won the hearts of many pet owners with their high energy and extra friendly personality.
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- Average rank: 43
- 1940 rank: 67
- 2021 rank: 19
As their name hints, Siberian Huskies originated from Siberia. They were bred to have serious endurance and a thick coat to withstand severe winters. These wolf-like dogs have won the hearts of many pet owners with their high energy and extra friendly personality.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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- Average rank: 42.5
- 1940 rank: 14
- 2021 rank: 71
Characterized by their silky chestnut coats, Irish setters were originally bred to hunt birds. Although they love humans, their hunting instincts can make them a threat to smaller animals. They are active and energetic, so potential owners should be prepared to take them on lots of long walks or runs.
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- Average rank: 42.5
- 1940 rank: 14
- 2021 rank: 71
Characterized by their silky chestnut coats, Irish setters were originally bred to hunt birds. Although they love humans, their hunting instincts can make them a threat to smaller animals. They are active and energetic, so potential owners should be prepared to take them on lots of long walks or runs.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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- Average rank: 41
- 1940 rank: 34
- 2021 rank: 48
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever gets its name from the shallow estuary that’s surrounded by Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. In the 19th century, Chessies were used to hunt ducks in the Bay since their coat helps them repel water and stay warm.
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- Average rank: 41
- 1940 rank: 34
- 2021 rank: 48
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever gets its name from the shallow estuary that’s surrounded by Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. In the 19th century, Chessies were used to hunt ducks in the Bay since their coat helps them repel water and stay warm.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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- Average rank: 30.5
- 1940 rank: 33
- 2021 rank: 28
Also known as Shelties, Shetland sheepdogs were bred in the United Kingdom as herding dogs. These long-coated pups look similar to their collie relatives but are much smaller, weighing only about 20 pounds.
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- Average rank: 30.5
- 1940 rank: 33
- 2021 rank: 28
Also known as Shelties, Shetland sheepdogs were bred in the United Kingdom as herding dogs. These long-coated pups look similar to their collie relatives but are much smaller, weighing only about 20 pounds.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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- Average rank: 29.5
- 1940 rank: 22
- 2021 rank: 37
One of the smallest dog breeds, Chihuahuas typically weigh no more than 6 pounds. This breed has earned itself a lot of screen time, with roles in “Legally Blonde,” “Meet the Fockers,” “Beverly Hills Chihuahua,” and as Taco Bell’s former mascot, Gidget.
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- Average rank: 29.5
- 1940 rank: 22
- 2021 rank: 37
One of the smallest dog breeds, Chihuahuas typically weigh no more than 6 pounds. This breed has earned itself a lot of screen time, with roles in “Legally Blonde,” “Meet the Fockers,” “Beverly Hills Chihuahua,” and as Taco Bell’s former mascot, Gidget.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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- Average rank: 18
- 1940 rank: 12
- 2021 rank: 24
This breed combines a tiny figure with a big personality. Although they weigh no more than 7 pounds, Pomeranians can be possessive and behave aggressively toward those who threaten their space. As a result, they may not be ideal for families with young children.
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- Average rank: 18
- 1940 rank: 12
- 2021 rank: 24
This breed combines a tiny figure with a big personality. Although they weigh no more than 7 pounds, Pomeranians can be possessive and behave aggressively toward those who threaten their space. As a result, they may not be ideal for families with young children.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
Canva
- Average rank: 17
- 1940 rank: 8
- 2021 rank: 26
English Springer Spaniels were bred as hunting dogs and are active, obedient pups. Springer spaniels have won six Best in Show awards at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, the third-most of any breed.
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- Average rank: 17
- 1940 rank: 8
- 2021 rank: 26
English Springer Spaniels were bred as hunting dogs and are active, obedient pups. Springer spaniels have won six Best in Show awards at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, the third-most of any breed.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
Canva
- Average rank: 15
- 1940 rank: 29
- 2021 rank: 1
Despite their name, Labrador retrievers developed in Newfoundland, Canada, as opposed to Labrador, Canada. With coats generally in either yellow, chocolate, or black, Labs are an active breed that loves people and other animals.
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- Average rank: 15
- 1940 rank: 29
- 2021 rank: 1
Despite their name, Labrador retrievers developed in Newfoundland, Canada, as opposed to Labrador, Canada. With coats generally in either yellow, chocolate, or black, Labs are an active breed that loves people and other animals.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
Canva
- Average rank: 13
- 1940 rank: 3
- 2021 rank: 23
Even though terrier is in their name, Boston terriers are part of the nonsporting group. The other half of their name makes more sense: They were developed in Boston and became the official state dog of Massachusetts in 1979.
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- Average rank: 13
- 1940 rank: 3
- 2021 rank: 23
Even though terrier is in their name, Boston terriers are part of the nonsporting group. The other half of their name makes more sense: They were developed in Boston and became the official state dog of Massachusetts in 1979.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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