I am not exactly what you might call fashion-forward. There was a brief, shining moment when flannel and hiking boots came into style and I passed undetected under the noses of the hipster fashion police - until they realized that there was legitimate dirt on my boots, hay on my shirt and a faint odor, not of natural essential oils and perfume, but of the barn. When it comes to dogs, however, I know what I'm talking about.
From the dog park to the street, from cafés to hardware stores, on TV and at the end of celebrity leashes, dogs are always in style. Some dogs, of course, are trendier than others. These are the dog breeds that consistently make their owners look stylish no matter where they go or what they're wearing.
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1. Mutts
Just kidding, mutts aren't a dog breed. They are, however, the No. 1 most-owned dog in the hippest parts of NYC, which means that if you really want to keep up with celebrities like John Hamm, you should probably adopt a mixed breed dog. Not only will this keep you in style, you will also be helping out a dog in need, which is definitely more important than your ego.
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2. Schipperke
schipperke dog
schipperke dog
If you like feisty pups, then the schipperke could be the trendy dog breed for you. This little fox is adorable - however, he has earned his nickname as a "little black devil." Schipperkes love their families, but they can be a handful and require an owner who won't let this tiny pup walk all over them.
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3. Labradoodle
Designer dog breeds like Labradoodles are increasing in popularity, and if you have the money, it is easy to see why. Most Labradoodles don't shed, which makes these dogs an excellent choice for owners who want the energy and enthusiasm of a Lab without the shedding. A word of caution for potential Labradoodle owners, however, is that not all Labradoodles have the non-shedding coat of a poodle, so research your breeder carefully before making a commitment.
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4. Pugs
Pugs know how to work a crowd. Whether they are dressed for an evening out or romping at the end of a leash, pugs are natural entertainers. Their huge eyes and absurdly cute faces defy logical explanation, and their compact size makes them perfect for any home.
More: 8 must-follow Instagram accounts for pug lovers
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5. French bulldogs
french bulldog
french bulldog
Who can resist those ears? Like the pug, the slightly smushed face of a French bulldog combined with their playful personalities make these small dogs irresistible to most passerby. Just be sure toname your Frenchie something super trendy to help boost the breed's rising standing on that AKC popularity list.
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6. Puggle
Beagles are the fifth most popular dog in America, which is probably why pug enthusiasts, stuck at 33, decided to capitalize on their appeal to create one of the hottest designer dog breeds out there: the puggle.
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7. Yorkie
Lapdogs are always in, whether it's in fashion or in a purse. Yorkies are definitely one of the trendiest lapdog (pugs aside), with their silky fur and big personalities. Yorkies sport ribbons, bows and sweaters with style, although it is important to remember that these little dogs are animals, not accessories - not that a Yorkie is likely to let you forget.
More: Yorkie helps his bunny friends in the cutest way
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8. Pit bulls
Regardless of your feelings toward pit bulls, this breed is certainly trending. The large numbers of pit bulls and pit mixes in shelters (see No. 1 on this list) have led to changing opinions about the breed, and their popularity is rising despite breed restrictions.
More: Pit bulls are great pets, but not for everyone
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9. Cockapoo
What is better than a cocker spaniel? As a proud cocker spaniel owner, I would have to say nothing, but the cockapoo comes pretty close. This designer breed is very popular among apartment dwellers, and their soft, non-shedding coats and rambunctious personalities make them lovable handfuls that won't ruin your expensive, trendy furniture.
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10. German shepherds
german shepherd
german shepherd
If you, unlike me, are already trendy, then you probably have possessions you are proud of, like that new iPhone. The best way to protect your trendy assets while also owning a trendy dog breed is to either sew a secret iPhone pocket into your Yorkie's sweater or adopt a German shepherd. These dogs are the second most popular breed in America, and while they will probably ruin your designer furniture and fancy clothes with their constantly shedding fur, you will be safe and loved no matter where you go. No one will dare try to steal your purse or break into your home with a GSD on duty.
More: 6 self-defense tips I learned from my German shepherd
What does "trendy" even mean?
Just because a dog breed is trendy does not mean it is the breed for you, and just because your dog's breed isn't on this list doesn't mean that they aren't actually the coolest dog on the planet. Trends come and go, but a dog's love never goes out of style.
