The most popular dog breeds in the UK revealed – and the trusty Labrador is nowhere near the top
WE all know that dogs are man’s best friend – and according to data, Brits really do love their furry four-legged pals.
Recent data has revealed that there are around 10.6 million dogs living in homes across the UK, making us the second-highest dog-owning nation in the world.
But with more than 400 dog breeds recognised worldwide, which is the UK’s favourite?
To celebrate World Animal Day on 4th October, Open Study College has analysed search terms for the top dog breeds in the UK to reveal which is the most searched for, and therefore our favourite.
Winner
Cocker spaniels are the UK’s favourite dog breed, with 49,930 average monthly searches for the breed.
London searches for the breed the most, with 22,220 searches a month, followed by Birmingham with 2,900.
Cocker spaniels are known for their gentle temperament, affectionate yet lively behaviour, and are generally good with children – making them the perfect family pet.
Runner-up
Golden retrievers follow in second place, with 46,880 monthly searches on average.
Similar to Cocker spaniels, Golden retrievers are typically gentle, patient and good with children.
They are known to shed and need lots of socialisation.
3rd place
Rottweilers are the UK’s third favourite dog breed, with 46,420 monthly searches for the breed.
London searches for the breed the most, with 22,200 average monthly searches, and Birmingham follows with 3,600 a month.
When properly trained, rottweilers are loyal, safe and well-behaved.
4th place
Rottweilers are closely followed by the adorable Dachshund – also referred to as sausage dog – with more than 40k monthly searches for the popular breed.
This sweet little breed is known for being loyal and courageous. They can be protective of their owners and wary of strangers.
However, as cute as they are, the dogs of this breed also tend to be very vocal and bark a lot – so if you want peace and quiet in your home, maybe give the sausage dog a miss…
5th place
Next up on the list is the German shepherd, with just a little under 40,000 monthly searches online.
Loyal and loving, German shepherds are typically thought to be a good pick for families, as they’re gentle with children.
However, as with all dog breeds, German shepherds should be supervised to make sure everyone, your kids and the dog, is safe and happy.
The most popular dog breeds in the UK
Find out if your pooch is amongst the most popular picks in the UK.
- Cocker spaniels – 49,930 average monthly searches,
- Golden retrievers – 46,880,
- Rottweilers – 46,420,
- Dachshund – 40,320,
- German shepherd – 39,750,
- Frenchies – 38,330,
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier – 28,450,
- Labrador – 25,720,
- Bulldog – 25,690,
- Border terrier – 22,100,
- Sprigner spaniel – 18,510,
- King Charles spaniel – 16,620,
- Miniature schnauzer – 11,890,
- Hungarian Vizsla -11,610.
6th place
French Bulldogs can be good family dogs because they are affectionate, loyal, and playful – so it comes as no surprise that there are over 38,000 monthly searches for this adorable breed.
Frenchies are known for being pretty laid back and adaptable – however, they can ”face serious health concerns” due to their flat heads, vets have warned.
The shape of their head affects their breathing and can cause a disease named brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome – which can come with major medical costs and lifelong maintenance.
The least popular breeds include Hungarian Vizslas, with 11,610 average monthly searches, and miniature schnauzers, with 11,890 monthly searches.