What are the 10 top dogs in the Dayton area?

Some dogs will fetch your slippers. Others will make mincemeat of your footwear.

Despite the diversity of canines out there, local residents have some favorite breeds, with Labrador retrievers leading the pack.

Last year, Montgomery County residents owned more Labs than any other breed of dog, according to county dog license registration data. That's consistent with national trends and continues the Lab's reign as the top dog in the greater Dayton area.

Chihuahua was the second most popular breed. Pit Bulls climbed up three spots to move into third place.

The rankings were as followings:

Labrador retrievers are loyal and friendly. They love to play, can be easy to train and are great for families, even those with rambunctious kids.

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But they need lots of exercise and may need active owners or a big fenced-in yard to play in.

Chihuahuas are the smallest breed of dog but can have big personalities.

They are very loyal, love to snuggle and are very much lap dogs, said Chris Mesker, a Dayton area resident who serves on the board of directors of Chihuahua Rescue & Transport, a national group.

But they are not an ideal pet for families with small children because sometimes they will nip if they feel threatened, Mesker said, and Chihuahuas also are notoriously difficult to house break.

“They are often perfect for an older couple who don’t have children or grandchildren or have them only visit rarely,” Mesker said. “Chihuahuas love women and love girls.”

Pit Bulls are a loyal, protective and athletic canine breed, according to PetMD.com.

“Animals shelters, including the Humane Society of Greater Dayton, are great resources for finding some of the most popular types of dog breeds,” said Brian Weltge, president and CEO of the Humane Society of Greater Dayton. “The key to finding your perfect match is going into the shelter knowing what personality type may work best for you and your home environment. Do you need a dog to go running with? Do you want one that is smaller because you live in an apartment? No matter the breed, our staff can work with you and make sure you are finding a dog that fits your needs so the adoption can be a success for everyone involved.”