BREA, Calif. (Dec. 5, 2006) – With the holidays approaching and many pet lovers considering bringing a new four-legged family member into their homes, Veterinary Pet Insurance shares the 10 most popular purebred dogs insured with VPI in 2006.

Ranking	Breed	Number Insured with VPI
1	Labrador Retriever	34,824
2	Golden Retriever	17,417
3	Yorkshire Terrier	11,268
4	Shih Tzu	10,949
5	Boxer	8,863
6	German Shepherd	8,183
7	Chihuahua	7,254
8	Cocker Spaniel	6,905
9	Maltese	6,851
10	Pug	6,414

The data compiled by VPI — which insures more than 400,000 pets across the country — parallels other statistics on the most popular dog breeds. According to American Kennel Club (AKC) registration figures, the Labrador Retriever has remained at the top post for 16 consecutive years, with more than 137,000 Labs registered with the organization as of 2005. The AKC also lists the Golden Retriever as the second most popular breed registered, and the Yorkshire Terrier as the third most popular.

Dr. Carol McConnell, director of veterinary relations for VPI, says these breeds remain among the top picks of pet lovers for many reasons. “Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers are very popular due to their good-natured temperament,” she explains. “The popularity of the Yorkies, Shih Tzus, Maltese and Chihuahuas is due to the strong bond they form with their pet owners. Plus, these small breeds are easier to maintain.”

What is the best breed for a prospective household? Dr. McConnell recommends Labrador and Golden Retrievers for households with children. “Smaller breeds — like a Maltese, Pug or Chihuahua — are great for empty-nesters and working professionals because they’re smaller and need less exercise,” she adds. “Single individuals who have time to exercise a dog would be perfect matches for active breeds like the Retrievers, a Boxer or a German Shepherd.”

For holiday shoppers intending to purchase a pet as a gift, Dr. McConnell explains that it is important to make sure the gift recipient is prepared for their new four-legged family member — from both a time management and financial standpoint. “Pets require daily care and a financial investment. However, the rewards of the gift will be long-lasting, since pets provide unconditional affection for many years.”

Another consideration for pet lovers purchasing a pet in the near future, Dr. McConnell adds, is to purchase pet health insurance as early as possible to make sure the pet is covered as soon as he or she is welcomed into the household. Dr. McConnell suggests that the best time to purchase a policy is when they are puppies or kittens, because they are less likely to have any pre-existing conditions that would be excluded.