We’ve all seen dogs who look like their owners, but the resemblance between people and their pooches goes beyond appearances. According to a group of studies reviewed by the Atlantic, human-dog resemblance can include personality, temperament, and behavior. For example, people with sporting dogs tend to be more athletic, and people with couch potato pooches tend to be less active themselves.
Even if you and your dog aren’t doppelgangers, you probably have a lot in common. With that in mind, we’ve taken a look at some of the most popular dogs in America to answer the question, What does my dog say about me?
What does my dog breed say about me?
Labrador Retriever
If you have a labrador retriever, you’re not alone: labs have been the most popular dog breed in America for a generation. Lab lovers, like their dogs, are loyal people-pleasers. You may have had a slightly wild youth, but you’ll settle into older age with dignity. If you’re a lab person, you follow the leader—not because you’re a pushover, but because you love to make others happy.
Bulldog
Bully breeds fall into a few different groups—sporting, working, non-sporting, and miscellaneous—but they all have a few things in common: confidence, intelligence, and boundless positivity. If you’re a bully person, you may look tough, but you’re a smart, sensitive softie at heart.
Pug
Ohboyohboyohboyohboy! Pugs and their people are known for their comic antics and enthusiasm. Sometimes you’re not sure if people are laughing with you or at you, but you don’t care—you just love being the center of attention. Like your pug, you’re curious, playful, and maybe a little bit scatterbrained (in an endearing way, of course).
Corgi
Corgis and the people who love them tend to be strong-willed, organized, and astute. You may come from a sophisticated lineage, but you’re not afraid to get a little dirty. You just want to have all your ducks in a row (or all your sheep in their pen) before letting loose, and who can blame you for that?
Shiba Inu
Wow. Much bold. So refinement. Such incorrigible but irresistible all at once! You and your Shiba are so striking and unique, this popular meme was made just for you.
Rottweiler
Rottweilers have a reputation for stoicism, and like your Rottie, you may be guarded and alert. You also exude confidence, and you’re courageous when occasion calls. Rottweiler people are not easily won over, but once somebody earns your trust, you stick with them for life. Above all, Rottweilers and the people who love them are true and loyal friends.
Beagle
Beagles and their people are intelligent and focused. Some may say you’re too motivated for your own good, but you know you’re just passionate. When you catch scent of something you want, you don’t give up until you have it. Like their dogs, beagle people are goal-oriented seekers with energy to spare.
Poodle
As Modern Dog Magazine reports, poodles of all sizes have “the unique poodle heart, soul, and character.” Whether a poodle is standard, miniature, or toy, there are certain characteristics they’re bound to share with each other and their human companions. Like your poodle, you may carry yourself with grace, but you don’t shy away from goofiness. Poodle people are clever, engaged, and enthusiastic.
Bernese Mountain Dog
How you doin’, good lookin’? Bernese mountain dogs are certainly impressive to look at, but there’s a lot of brains behind that beauty. If you’re a Berner person, you’re likely thoughtful and affectionate. You may also be rather independent, happy to be around the people you love but not necessarily the center of attention. However, with a good friend and enough encouragement, you can be convinced to take the spotlight once in a while.
Mutt
According to the ASPCA, the majority of dogs adopted from American animal shelters are mixed-breed. Whether a designer mixed breed or a BBD (basic brown dog), a mutt is relatable but unique, a singular creature able to take on the qualities of many other types. If you’re a mutt person, you’re grounded and unpretentious. While you may relate to some of the above mentioned breed-specific attributes, at the end of the day, you’re uniquely you: a wonderful, one-of-a-kind mix.
Top image via Flickr/Jay Melnick