Vote Now: Today is National Dog Day: Which dog breed makes the best pet?

MONROE COUNTY — It’s no secret dogs are the most popular pet. According to the U.S. Census Bureau , 49 million households have at least one canine companion. In fact, a study by The Pew Research Center found that 51% of pet owners view them just as important as any human in the family.

When you think about it, dogs really are the best! You give them food and shelter and they are grateful to you through their loyalty. Wagging tails and sloppy wet canine kisses reaffirm their love for you even on the days when you don't love yourself.

Dogs are pack animals so they prefer the company of others, whether it's humans or other animals. Their nature makes it easy for them to develop strong bonds because they are naturally loving and affectionate.

Along with their faithfulness, there’s some cool, fun and fascinating facts about dogs. The American Kennel Club did a study on canine behavior and compiled a list about a dog’s physical and mental abilities like how a dog’s nose print is unique, similar to a person’s fingerprint.

Did you know dogs curl up in a ball when sleeping to protect their organs and they’re not color blind? They can see blue and yellow.

Today is National Dog Day. Established in 2004, the aim of the day is to bring awareness to the number of dogs needing adoption from shelters and rescues and encourage dog ownership of all breeds.

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At the Monroe News, we love dogs.

Our editor, John McTaggart and his wife share their home with four miniature dachshunds. Photographer Tom Hawley and his wife own Bennie, a 6-year-old sheltie who loves to play ball. Reporter Connor Veenstra owns Luna, a blue heeler mix. My family has Maddie, an 8-year-old black Cockapoo, who doesn't know she's a dog. If you ever meet her, please don't tell her.

But we’re curious to know which dog breed our readers think makes the best pet?

We'll list the 10 most popular breeds (and those mutts, of course) in the United States, to start, but feel free to write in your favorite breed as well.

This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: Vote Now: Today is National Dog Day: Which dog breed makes the best pet?