Oh. My. Goodness. Christina Ricci has the second cutest dog in the world (after you know who). Click!

The American Kennel Club announced their top ten dog breeds for 2007 based on registration statistics of its members...

2007 Most Popular Dogs in the U.S.

1. Labrador Retriever
2. Yorkshire Terrier
3. German Shepherd Dog
4. Golden Retriever
5. Beagle
6. Boxer
7. Dachshund
8. Poodle
9. Shih Tzu
10. Bulldog

For the first time since 1935, the Bulldog has broken into the top 10. The organization says that this breed has recently gained appeal to a very wide range of dog lovers. The Bulldog is both docile and adaptive, and can thrive in small or large homes. It's also one of the few dog breeds to be adopted as a mascot for some sports teams.

The Bulldog was first recognized by the AKC in 1886, just two years after the organization's founding, and was most popular in 1915 when it peaked in 5th place. The breed's popularity ebbed and flowed throughout the mid-20th century, but since hitting a low of 41st place in 1973, its ranking has steadily increased.

The AKC published statistics by cities... (more...)

Ruby and I were not surprised by this article from Reuters.

The American Pet Products Manufacturers Association released figures on Tuesday showing pet owners spent an estimated $41 billion on their animal friends last year which was almost double the $21 billion spent in 1996.

High end pet accessories, carriers, designer clothes, and organic food topped the spending list, but big money was also spent on pet health insurance, pet spas and hotels, as well as doggie day care.

APPMA President Bob Vetere said an increase in pampering and gift giving has fueled the industry as more pet parents continued to treat their pets like members of the family.

Ruby and I like this trend a lot!