We previously took a look at 20 dogs that have soared in popularity over the past decade, but as we know in life as some things rise others must fall. These once-popular breeds include dogs like the firehouse dog (Dalmatian), Dorothy's best pal in the "Wizard of Oz" (Cairn Terrier) and the winningest breed at the Westminster Dog Show (Wire Fox Terrier).

To determine which breeds have experienced the steepest decline, we looked at Vetstreet's extensive database of millions of pet records and compared their popularity a decade ago with today. Here are the results, and a few are sure to surprise you.

No. 1: Greyhound



The breed that saw the sharpest decline has been the Greyhound. They are known for being gentle and affectionate, but even those appealing attributes couldn't keep this dog from declining in popularity over the past decade.



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No. 2: Smooth Fox Terrier

The Smooth Fox Terrier is not necessarily the right dog for all homes. He's outgoing and active and wants to dig, bark and investigate all the time. This makes him perfect for activities like hunting and earth dog trials but a bit problematic for calm and quiet families.







No. 3: Spitz Breeds

Spitz breeds were developed to bark, and bark they do, often in a variety of sounds. This active mixed breed needs daily exercise that mentally and physically challenges him. Otherwise he's prone to destructive and noisy behavior.







No. 4: Schipperke

With a nickname like "little black devil," it may be no surprise that the Schipperke has fallen somewhat out of favor. The highly energetic and highly intelligent breed is a great sports competitor and watchdog, but his take-charge attitude means that he's liable to walk all over an owner who isn't prepared to stand up to his antics.



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No. 5: Chow Chow

This excellent guard and watchdog is a Chinese breed developed as an all-purpose dog for hunting, herding, pulling a cart and guarding the home. Chow Chows have a reputation for being aggressive toward people, but with early and frequent socialization, they can make excellent family pets.



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No. 6: Dalmatian

The Dalmatian has long been a favorite firehouse dog, and we can only imagine the pooch's popularity rose with the mid-'90s release of 101 Dalmatians. Since what goes up must come down, that may explain why this breed has steadily declined in recent years.







No. 7 (tie): Samoyed (photo credit: Robin Burkett, Animal Photography/vetstreet.com)

Originally a reindeer herder, the "Smiling Sammie" can be a tad stubborn, but the Samoyed is also a loving and gentle family member.







No. 7 (tie): Keeshond

The Keeshond is a happy-go-lucky Spitz breed that requires less exercise than you might expect, but the "Velcro" dog loves attention, and lots of it, which could be a little too much for some busy families.







No. 9: English Cocker Spaniel

This larger relative to the Cocker Spaniel was first recognized as its own breed in 1946 when the two breeds diverged greatly in appearance. The English Cocker Spaniel diverges further, with some that are "field bred" and some that are bred to show.







No. 10: Silky Terrier (photo credit: Tetsu Yamazaki, Animal Photography)

The tiny Silky Terrier doesn't acknowledge his small stature, so those hoping to bring home a lap dog will be sorely disappointed. He wants to play, dig, run and be a charming little watchdog.



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No. 11: Basenji

The Basenji is often described as catlike, and although he's highly curious and intelligent, he's not the right dog for anyone who holds possessions dear and doesn't have a rather hefty sense of humor. He's mischievous and has a mind of his own, so if you want to stay a step ahead of him, you'll need to keep on your toes.



No. 12 (tie): Cairn Terrier (photo credit: Robin Burkett, Animal Photography/vetstreet.com)

Small but active, the Cairn Terrier loves to play. He's intelligent but independent (or, as many would say, stubborn), so you'll have to be prepared to stick to your guns when training him. He's not a good choice for families with other small, furry animals, as the Cairn was bred to root out otters and other vermin, and that instinct is still strong.

No. 12 (tie): American Eskimo Dog

The American Eskimo Dog comes in three sizes but just one level of intelligence - super smart. He's healthy and affectionate but barks, sheds and isn't always a good choice for homes with young children.







No. 14 (tie): Lhasa Apso



Dignified and mischievous, the Lhasa Apso is an excellent watchdog due to his alert and suspicious nature. His signature long, flowing coat is certainly eye-catching, but it requires extensive grooming.







No. 14 (tie): Toy Fox Terrier

This American-bred toy dog was created to keep rats and other small vermin off farms. He's playful, silly, fearless and makes a wonderful watchdog, but the Toy Fox Terrier is a terrier in the truest sense, so if bored and left to his own devices, he can become destructive.

No. 14 (tie): Norwegian Elkhound



Originating in Norway as a watchdog, flock guardian and big-game hunter, the Norwegian Elkhound has a thick, gray coat and a tail that curls tightly over his back. He's bold and boisterous and needs plenty of exercise to challenge him physically and mentally. Otherwise he can become noisy and destructive.



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* 4 Best Household Items for Pet-Stained Carpets

* 5 Best Ways to Help Your Pet to Learn to Love the Vet