What is the best dog breed? The most popular pooches in US since 1880

The American Kennel Club has been tracking the popularity of purebred dogs for 128 years as the number of recognized breeds grew from nine to 177. Here's of the country's most popular dog breeds by the decade, according to data released by the AKC:

6. 1930s: America's dog again, and other companions

Reuters
Penny the Boston Terrier votes with her owners, Amy O'Neill (L) and girlfriend Michelle Nowakowski, during the U.S. presidential election in Milwaukee, Wisconsin November 6, 2012.

Boston terriers reclaim the top spot, and cocker spaniels begin their impressive climb. In the 1930s, the decade of the Great Depression, all top 10 breeds are small or medium-sized companion dogs.

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