Once again, the Labrador Retriever took Seattle's top spot in the American Kennel Club's  2012 ranking of the most popular AKC-recognized dog breeds in the U.S.

The Lab is also the nation's most popular dog for the 22nd straight year - for attributes that range from family-friendly pet to search-and-rescue nose.

"The people of Seattle have shown their love for the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel," said AKC Spokesperson Lisa Peterson.

The Cavalier has jumped to the No. 4 spot.

The top 5

1. Labrador Retriever

2. Golden Retriever
   
3. German Shepherd Dog
   
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
   
5. French Bulldog