The American Kennel Club recently announced the current most popular breeds in America. What do you think the winner is? German shepherd, golden retriever, pug, collie, Labradoodle, Yorkshire terrier, spitz, shih tzu, sheltie, Boston terrier, French bulldog?

   NONE OF THE ABOVE!

The Labrador retriever is again top dog, according to the AKC, with the German shepherd finishing a strong second.

   That 2009 prestigious spot was again, for the 19th consecutive year, the Labrador retriever. Right on its tail (lol!): the German shepherd. The German shepherd jumped ahead of the Yorkshire terrier, which was number 2 in 2008.

   AKC states that the German shepherd has gained ground possibly due to the increased attention they receive for their security efforts at home and abroad. The German shepherd is not only famous for being a top-notch police, guard and military dog, but also an energetic, loyal and very intelligent breed.

   The AKC ranked 164 breeds in 2009. To view the list, go to the web page akc/reg/dogreg_stats.com.

   BUT … let’s not forget mix breeds! Although we do see a lot of pure breeds at the shelter, some of the best pets are mix breeds. And the new AKC Partners Program kicked off April 1. The program allows any mix breed to compete in AKC agility, obedience and rally trials offering mix breed classes. For more information on the AKC Partners Program, visit akc.org.

   Paws till next time … Jane

JANE BERNARD is director of the LaPorte County Small Animal Shelter. Visit the shelter at 2855 W. Ind. 2. Hours are Monday, Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Or call 326-1637 or visit http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/IN89.html.