Millions of us own them. Some are pedigree, and some are just mutts but whatever their breeding, our dogs bring joy into our lives. 

Vets, groomers and pet store employees call us their parents and I suppose we are in an adoptive sort of way.

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There are breeds for every personality and family circumstance. Some dogs are used for show and breeding, others are called on to help law-enforcement, the disabled and rancher. But most are just family members. 

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So, what are the most popular breeds for 2009? We all have our favorites, and right now mine is...our mutt.

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TOP TEN DOG BREEDS FOR 2009

10. SHIH-TZU: Its name means Lion, but this breed is known to be sweet and playful.

9.  POODLE: The first thought many people have when they think of a Poodle is  High Maintenance. What they should be thinking is that the Poodle is the second smartest breed, it is a high achiever and very trainable..

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8. BULLDOG: The Bulldog is equable and resolute, although perhaps not the most attractive animal. It isn't a lapdog, but would love to be one                                                                                                                                                           .

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7. DACHSHUND: This elongated bundle of energy is lively and friendly and makes a good family pet.

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6. BOXER: Boxers have handsome, intelligent faces. They are guardians to their owners and love people.

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5. BEAGLE: This merry breed has a proclivity for barking, but their merry personalities and sweet faces make them popular.

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4. GOLDEN RETRIEVER: This breed always seems to be on the top ten list. Beautiful animalsl, they are good with children, intelligent and love to please.

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3. GERMAN SHEPARD: Not only is this breed the leading police and military choice for it's trainability and valor, it is also a loving companion.

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2. YORKSHIRE TERRIER: Commonly called a Yorkie (a popular designer mix is with a poodle,and I woud call that a Porkie but I'm not so sure that's what the actual designer name is) this brave little bundle of enerby has a big personality. They are yippie though if you are a bad parent.

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1. LABRADOR RETRIEVER: Another breed that is always in the top ten breeds, this animal is a great hunter's companion, its gentle personality suits family life extremely well, it is intelligent, friendly and gentle.