Dogs really aren’t just ‘man’s best friend’ but everyone’s, yet which are the most popular in UK homes?
They’re deservedly treated as part of the families who love and nurture them, and in return offer energy, exercise, love, and lots of licks!
A nation of dog-lovers, there are some breeds whose popularity holds firm despite the emergence of cross-breeds and a trend for some smaller, fashionable variations.
We’ve picked out five of the most popular from the 221 different recognised breeds (and a quarter-of-a-million dogs in total) who were given a new home last year.
Labrador Retriever
Popular all over the world, the Labrador Retriever was originally bred in the UK as a working dog to retrieve game for hunters. They have a famously friendly and loyal nature and are often used as assistance dogs for the disabled, as well as search and rescue operatives, and as therapy partners.
Medium to large-sized with muscular build and short, dense coat that comes in black, cream, yellow or chocolate, Labs are known for their high energy levels, intelligence and trainability.
It all adds up to them being a great choice for outdoorsy owners, as well as families with children, with over 60,000 registered last year.
French Bulldog
The ‘Frenchie’ is a small domestic dog that originated in France, developed from English Bulldogs and originally bred as companion dogs.
Used as ratting dogs in Parisian garment factories, they have distinctive bat ears, and are of a compact, muscular build, with friendly and affectionate personalities.
Not highly active – due to their brachycephalic (short-nosed) build, which can cause breathing difficulties – they do well with short walks and indoor playtime, and are extremely loyal.
Cocker Spaniel
A breed that originated in England and developed as a gun dog for flushing and retrieving game birds. They are named after the bird they were used to hunt, the woodcock, and have friendly and affectionate personalities, making them excellent family pets.
Intelligent, trainable, and adaptable to different living situations, including apartments and houses with yards, they have high energy levels, requiring regular exercise and grooming to maintain their coat.
Always on red alert, the slightly larger Springer Spaniel is also very popular, and known to follow shadows around the room!
Bulldog
Bred for now outlawed bull-baiting, Bulldogs actually have a mild temperament, and their distinctive wrinkled face, short nose and stocky build, paired with short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colours, sets them apart from the pack.
They have a medium energy and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent obesity and other health problems.
Prone to certain health issues, including breathing problems, skin infections, and hip dysplasia, it’s important to purchase from a reputable breeder and to provide them with regular veterinary care. Over 15,000 were registered last year.
Miniature Schnauzer
Originating in Germany and developed as a ratting dog to control rodents on farms, the Miniature Schnauzer is a small breed with a distinctive beard and eyebrows, coming in a variety of colours, including salt and pepper, black, and white.
Miniature Schnauzers are highly trainable and enjoy activities such as obedience training, agility, and playing fetch. They are also known for their alertness and make good watchdogs, but should not be left alone for long periods of time as they are known to struggle with anxiety and boredom.
