Labradors still top dog on LI and in U.S.

The American Kennel Club says the Labrador retriever remains the nation's and Long Island's most popular dog -- nationally for the 22nd straight year -- for attributes that range from family-friendly pet to search-and-rescue nose.

The German shepherd still commands the No. 2 spot, according to the AKC top 10 list released Wednesday. But the golden retriever has nudged out the beagle for the No. 3 rung.

AKC spokeswoman Lisa Peterson said larger breeds dominate the "pint-sized, portable pooch." But there are still some lovable lightweights on the list.

The beagle is now fourth. The rest of the pack: bulldog, Yorkshire terrier, boxer, poodle, Rottweiler and dachshund.

The rankings are based on the number of AKC-recognized breeds registered with the club each year.

In New York City, labs have replaced the long-favored Yorkies as the most popular breed. The Yorkie slipped from No. 1 to No. 5 on the city's top 10 list.-- AP