Since home is where the dog is, we've matched a few Lakeland neighborhoods + areas with dog breeds based on their temperaments, according to the American Kennel Club. Don't see your neighborhood listed yet? Consider yourself a Lakeland terrier. These pups are friendly, confident, and bold — just like a Lakelander.

Cleveland Heights: Boxer

With easy access to Lake Hollingsworth, the Lakeland Family YMCA, and several public parks, Cleveland Heights has to be the active boxer. This fun-loving breed is sure to keep you at Dog Leg Woods for an extra hour or two.

Downtown: Australian Shepherd

These intelligent dogs were bred as herders, and they still have a strong desire to work. That lines up with the downtown neighborhood, where you'll find Lakelanders mixing work and play.

South Lake Morton homes are known for their historic charm. | Photo by @sweetlife_ofanna

Lake Morton: Poodle

Historic home owners and Florida Southern College students alike are proud to call East and South Lake Morton home. That makes them a perfect fit with the proud and intelligent standard poodle.

Dixieland: French Bulldog

The French bulldog was the most popular breed for the first time in 2022, and it's the most popular in Florida in 2025. This adaptable breed reminds us of Dixieland, a popular area that's constantly seeing new businesses and rolling with the changes.

Camphor Heights: Golden Retriever

This community is small, tight-knit, and friendly — what better dog could represent it than a devoted golden retriever?

Kathleen: Chihuahua

When it comes to longevity, it's hard to beat the longest-living breed or this historic area. The communities that make up the Kathleen area have a rich history stretching all the way back to the 1840s.

Want to see more? Throw us a bone and drop us a line with which breed you think best matches your community for a pup-date of this article.