(This story has been updated because an earlier version contained an inaccuracy.)
FRAMINGHAM — The most common breed among Framingham’s more than 4,000 registered dogs is… undeclared.
The Daily News obtained a list of every registered dog in the city via a public records request. Breeds are reported by the owner when registering a dog, which is required once the dog reaches an age of 6 months. But more than 900 dog owners did not declare a breed at all, and nearly 200 additional dogs are of an unspecified mixed breed.
That aside, the most common dog breed among Framingham’s registered dogs for whom a breed is disclosed is Labrador retriever. There are 385 of them.
Framingham’s most common dog breeds are also among the most common in the country, and are popular among families in single-family homes and apartment dwellers alike.
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1. Labrador retriever
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Labrador retriever is the second-most popular dog in America (behind only the French bulldog). In addition to Framingham, the Labrador retriever is also the most popular dog in Worcester, with 661 such dogs registered there.
In all, 427 Labrador retrievers and labradoodles are registered in Framingham.
According to the AKC, Labrador retrievers are famously friendly and are companionable housemates who bond with the whole family and socialize well with other dogs and humans. They’re also enthusiastic athletes who require lots of exercise to keep mentally and physically fit.
2. Golden retriever
Regarded as excellent family dogs, golden retrievers are known for their curiosity and temperament. A total of 198 golden retrievers and goldendoodles (golden retrievers and poodles) are registered in Framingham. The golden retriever is also the third most popular breed in the country, according to the AKC. Golden retrievers are similar to Labrador retrievers, but have longer coats and slimmer builds.
3. Chihuahua
Originally from Mexico, the world’s smallest dog breed is Framingham’s third-most registered. About 130 chihuahuas are registered in the city, including a total of 67 that are mixed breed and 63 pure chihuahuas.
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Most chihuahuas weigh between 2 and 7 pounds, making them a popular companion dog and perfect for people living in apartments or smaller buildings. This breed is known for its apple-shaped head and perky ears.
4. Shih tzu
About 112 shih tzus are registered in Framingham. These dogs were originally bred in Tibet and are known for their long and stylish fur coats. Their coat requires lots of maintenance, with the AKC stating that shih tzus requires daily brushing with a good-quality wire brush with flexible pins and a bath every three to four weeks.
5. Yorkshire terrier
The Yorkshire terrier and mixed-breed Yorkipoos, which are Yorkies and poodles, comprise about 97 of the city’s registered dogs. Yorkshire terriers are no more than 7 pounds and are known for their floor-length, silky coat. Their coats are also hypoallergenic, as the coat is more like human hair than animal fur.
6. German shepherd
German shepherds are recognized for their intelligence and ability to learn commands, making them popular choices for service dogs used by police and the military. German shepherds are also viewed as good family pets, as they are protective of their families and are seen as useful for home security. There are 88 German shepherds, including mixes, registered in Framingham.
7. Maltese
About 75 Maltese are registered in Framingham. These affectionate dogs weigh less than 7 pounds and are covered by a long, straight white coat. The dog is the 37th most popular dog in the U.S., according to the AKC. Hailing from the Mediterranean, the Maltese is documented throughout ancient Rome and Greece, where it served as a popular lap dog and decorative ornament for wealthy citizens.
8. Cockapoo
Cockapoos, or cocker spaniels mixed with poodles, comprise about 74 of Framingham’s more than 4,000 registered dogs. They’re usually very good with children, have a happy disposition and are not easily bothered. Cockapoos get along well with other pets and dogs and are generally outgoing toward strangers. The American Kennel Club does not recognize the dog breed due to it being mixed breed.
9. Poodle
Poodles are among the most diverse dog breeds; there are 65 poodles and mixed poodles registered in Framingham. Poodles can range from 6 to 70 pounds and have thick, curly hair that can be styled, making it a popular show dog. They’re regarded as excellent pets and have an energetic and sociable attitude.
10. Beagle
About 60 of these dogs are registered in Framingham. Beagles possess an incredible sense of smell and are excellent trackers, which makes them interesting pets. Originally bred in England, beagles are known for their distinctive bark and howl, which has also led to them being used as guard dogs.
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