Actually, there is no official dog census exclusive to the community, registration statistics and local breed clubs indicate that small, manageable companion breeds - specifically the French Bulldog (1), Yorkshire Terrier, Chihuahua, and Poodle mixes (Doodles) are the most popular dogs in The Villages, Florida.
This directly mirrors broader state-level data from the U.S. News & World Report showing a heavy preference for smaller dogs, which are highly compatible with the active retirement lifestyle and courtyard villa housing typical of the area. Plus it's easier to pick up their shit from your neighbor's lawn than, say, a Great Dane's - of which there are three just in my smal neighborhood.
The Reigning Breeds in the Community
• French Bulldogs: Big city dogs maybe, but not here.
• Yorkshire Terriers & Chihuahuas: These compact, heat-tolerant anklesniffers are ideal for golf cart rides and senior living. Chihuahuas hold the overall top spot in many southern states, while Yorkies are frequently spotted around the town squares.
• Doodles & Poodle Mixes: Varieties like Goldendoodles and Maltipoos are highly favored among Villagers seeking intelligent, low-shedding companions that are easy to maintain inside a home.
• Dachshunds: Weener dogs hold a special place of prominence in The Villages, fueled by a dedicated, resident-led Dachshund Club - https://www.facebook.com/groups/3053091791398463/
that hosts social meetups and community activities.
Me? I have a cat. She's the straw that stirs the drinks here.,
and she fits nicely in her little nest...
What happened to Collies?
ReplyDeleteMost popular dog breeds has to be untrue. Look at any SPCA web site and you'll see a multitude of Pit Bulls.
ReplyDeleteMy wife and I (and the kids growing up) kept Keeshonden, sometimes just one, sometimes two or three at a time.
ReplyDeleteThe last one died 'bout a year or so back and we didn't replace her as we knew we were moving into a pet-unfriendly condo in SW Floorida - that's about 50 years of keeping just one breed.
They're difficult in a small condo as they like to talk a lot (all of ours did, anyway) 'n on the coast they require daily washing (to get the salt off their skin) and brushing (very heavy coats).
We miss 'em, not just "dogs", but the breed.