Each year about 3.3 million dogs are taken to shelters in the United States. While there is a variety of breeds available to adopt or foster at any given time, some dogs are more common than others. Here are a few breeds that you will likely come across if you visit a local shelter. 

Pit Bulls 

Now, pit bulls are not a breed per se. Rather, there are quite a few dog breeds, like American Pit Bull Terrier, the Bull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier, and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, that are considered pit bulls. Unfortunately, pits are stigmatized and are typically viewed as violent. Many places in the United States have also implemented Breed Specific Legislation (BSL). According to the ASPCA, “BSL is the blanket term for laws that either regulate or ban certain dog breeds in an effort to decrease dog attacks on humans and other animals.” However, these efforts are often misguided and do more harm than good. Because of the negative stereotypes surrounding pits and BSL, these types of dogs are often placed in shelters. 

Chihuahuas

Unfortunately, many chihuahuas spend at least a portion of their lives in a shelter. According to Chihuahua Power, people ended up rehoming the dogs after they had “a steady rise in popularity” in the early 2000s, thanks to celebrities like Paris Hilton. 

Dachshunds

If you have ever visited a shelter or rescue, you’ve likely seen a few Dachshunds up for adoption. While it is unclear why these dogs are taken to shelters, it may be because the breed is prone to injuring their backs. Unfortunately, it is common for Dachshunds to suffer from intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), which may lead to paralyzation.      

Labrador Retrievers

While Labrador Retrievers seem to be the quintessential family dog, they are another breed that overwhelmingly populates shelters. According to Lab Breed, financial or medical issues are usually why “families have had to give up their Labs.”

German Shepherds 

German Shepherd Central reported that German Shepherds are often taken to shelters because they “shed too much” and they are not super gentle around children. However, these issues should not be a deal-breaker. To reduce shedding, German Shepherd owners should adopt the habit of brushing their dog every other day. You can also improve your pup’s behavior around children by taking them to a trainer or behavioral specialist. 

To help dogs like Pit Bulls, Chihuahuas, Dachshunds, Labs, and German Shepherds, consider visiting your local shelter and adopting a rescue dog.

Woof Republic offers a lot of great content for pet parents bringing home a rescue dog. For more thoughts, check out our feature on Rent.com.