The UK is a nation of animal lovers – but especially dogs. According to findings by PDSA, 27% of UK adults have a dog with there being an estimated population of 10.2 million pet dogs across the nation. With so many people owning a four-legged furry friend, it’s interesting to see just which breeds have become sure family favourites. As we explore the charm of the UK’s most popular dog breeds, it’s essential to consider their health and well-being. Innovative companies like Stem Cell Vet are playing a crucial role in advancing veterinary care, ensuring our beloved pets enjoy a high quality of life.
Keep reading to discover 5 of the most popular dog breeds in the UK – and why we think the British public is just so obsessed with them.
- Labrador
Labrador retrievers remain the leading dog breed in the UK, with some 61,559 retrievers newly registered in the UK in 2021. Labradors excel as service and guide dogs, customs and arson task force dogs, and of course, beloved family pets. It seems Brits love a loyal lab, regardless of whether they’re black, golden, red, or milk chocolate coloured…
- French Bulldog
Originally appearing in Paris in the mid-nineteenth century as the result of crossbreeding between English Toy Bulldogs and local Parisian ratters, Frenchies have since become the UK’s second most popular breed of dog with 54,074 registrations in 2021. Indeed, French Bulldogs adapt to a life well with every type of pooch parent; single owners, couples, and even big families. They even get on well with other animals and are known for wanting to always make new friends of the human variety.
- Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are gun dogs infamous for their active and good-natured personality. With 38,910 registrations in 2021, there are many reasons why cocker spaniels are the UK’s third most popular dog, but spaniels are generally considered good with children due to their affectionate and gentle nature. While this means cocker spaniels tend to be non-aggressive toward other animals and people, it also means they don’t make particularly good watchdogs but are best for cuddling and keeping you company instead!
- Bulldog
Unlike the French crossbreed mix, the Bulldog is a British breed mastiff dog. While many might be put off by their wrinkled skin and endless slobber, we think this makes them even more endearing! Indeed, bulldogs are laid back, lovable, and family-friendly – even more reason why there were 15,403 registrations of bulldogs in 2021 alone.
- Dachshund
Whether you call them wiener dogs, badger dogs, or sausage dogs, you won’t go far without seeing a tiny dachshund waddling down the street. The Dachshund may be small, but they have big personalities. They are happy to play and accompany you on walks but require a dog coat for winter due to their short coat. Nothing less for the breed that saw 14,820 new registrations in the UK!
Whether you own one of the UK’s most popular pooches, or your furry friend is one of the rarer breeds, you can’t deny_ the nation is one big lover of dogs!
