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Labrador retrievers wag their tails as most popular dog breed of 2017

A Labrador Retriever, is shown at 'The American Kennel Club Reveals The Most Popular Dog Breeds Of 2016' at AKC Canine Retreat on March 21, 2017 in New York.
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ByGood Morning America

March 28, 2018, 1:01 PM

Labrador retrievers are the most popular dog breed in the United States, but perhaps not for long.

The French bulldog could soon take their place on the American Kennel Club (AKC)’s annual list of most popular dog breeds.

PHOTO: Bulldogs William Wonka, 14-weeks, left, and Dailey, 2, pose for photographers at the American Kennel Club, March 28, 2018, in New York. American Kennel Club rankings released in 2018 show bulldogs are the fifth most popular purebred dog. — Bulldogs William Wonka, 14-weeks, left, and Dailey, 2, pose for photographers during a news conference at the American Kennel Club headquarters, March 28, 2018, in New York. American Kennel Club rankings released in 2018 show bulldogs are the fifth most popular purebred dog.
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The French bulldog climbed into the top four last year, knocking the Beagle out of the top five for the first time in nearly 20 years.

The 2017 list was released today by the AKC.

“The French bulldog is poised for a takeover,” AKC Executive Secretary Gina DiNardo said in a statement, noting the breed’s “adaptability” and “loveable temperament.”

The Labrador retriever though has held the top ranking in AKC’s list for 27 years, a feat DiNardo attributed to the breed’s versatility and family-friendly nature.

The German shepherd came in No. 2 for the second straight year. Rare breeds, including canaans, harriers and skye terriers, jumped several spots each last year, according to the AKC.