Maltipoo And Bulldog Top Pet Searches In 2026 – Grand Pinnacle Tribune
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Pet lovers across the United States are showing their true colors—at least when it comes to their favorite furry companions. A comprehensive national study released on January 28, 2026, has revealed fascinating trends in dog and cat breed preferences, with California and Georgia leading the pack in very different directions. The research, conducted by MetLife Pet Insurance and based on Google search data from November 2024 through November 2025, offers a unique peek into the evolving tastes of American pet owners—and it’s full of surprises.
For California, the study crowned the Maltipoo as the state’s most searched dog breed. This small, affectionate cross between the Maltese and miniature or toy poodle is known for its intelligence, trainability, and low-shedding coat. According to the Los Angeles Times, the Maltipoo’s appeal seems almost tailor-made for the Golden State’s lifestyle: it’s a breed that loves attention, looks adorable, and fits right in with California’s penchant for designer pets.
But being cute comes with a price. As one Reddit user warned, “Maltipoos are lap dogs. They will want to be on and around you all the time…..They will require regular grooming appointments so their hair doesn't get matted….They will have dental problems later in life if you don't brush their teeth once a week.” The post continued, “They are also adorable, sweet dogs that do lots of cute things, and depending on size, can look like stuffed animals.” It’s no wonder Californians, who ranked third in the nation for per-capita dog breed search volume (just behind Texas and Nevada), are so drawn to this lovable companion.
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Digging deeper, the study found that Bakersfield and San Francisco had the highest dog breed search volumes in the country, underscoring Californians’ enthusiasm for researching their next four-legged friend. Interestingly, while some Americans might scroll through real estate listings or online shopping sites, Californians are just as likely to be researching dog breeds—perhaps hoping to find the perfect match for their active, outdoor lifestyles.
Yet, the Maltipoo’s popularity in California wasn’t echoed nationwide. The study’s national rankings placed the Cane Corso, Greyhound, and Golden Retriever as the top three most-searched dog breeds in the U.S. These breeds, known for their strength, speed, and classic appeal, seem to hold a special place in the hearts of Americans coast to coast. Other popular breeds across the country included the Australian Shepherd, Boxer, Chihuahua, Belgian Malinois, German Shepherd, Dachshund, and French Bulldog, according to the MetLife Pet Insurance report.
