Having recently returned from a lovely short break at one of our favourite spots on the East coast, we are now back feeling refreshed and ready to go once more.
With all the dogs I spotted while out and about on holiday, I got to wondering just how many dogs there are in the UK. Well after a little bit of research I discovered that at the last count there are close to a whopping 10 million, with a dog living in 26% of all UK households.
But which breeds make up the nation’s favourites? The list below is compiled from both pure and cross breeds:
1. Labrador Retriever
Also the most popular breed in America, Labrador Retrievers are bred to be working dogs and make great companions. They are also used as assistance dogs and for search and rescue.
2. Cocker Spaniel
Descendants of one of the oldest breeds of dog, the Cocker Spaniel is a very popular dog in the UK. Its medium size makes it an ideal household pet. They are very good natured dogs, energetic and people oriented.
3. Jack Russell Terrier
Originally bred 200 years ago to hunt foxes, these sprightly and very popular dogs have many colour combinations of black and tan or brown and white. Considered an intelligent breed, these dogs require a firm owner that is prepared to exercise them regularly.
4. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is often berated for being a dangerous breed and this is mainly due to its fighting and baiting history. Nowadays these traits are not evident and the breed is not the aggressive dog it once was; in fact quite the opposite is true. The modern day ‘Staffy’ today is a good choice with lots of affection and love to give.
5. Cockapoo
Cockapoos are a cross bred Cocker Spaniel and Miniature poodle. Dating back to the 1960s and originating in the US, they are among the first of the so called ‘designer dogs’. Due to their popularity, Cockapoos can be expensive to buy but their lovely nature makes it worthwhile. With a variety of different sizes and colours, they are great around children and make a wonderful family pet.
6. French Bulldog
Small stocky and muscular looking, the French bulldog is thought by some to be originally crossed between Toy Bulldogs and ‘Ratters’ in Paris. Friendly and mild mannered, they make an excellent companion dog. Sometimes nicknamed ‘Frenchies’, they are fun loving and only require short walks. Their Bulldog characteristics mean they can overheat very quickly.
7. Border Collie
Seen in a myriad of different colours, the Border Collie makes the top ten due to their combination of supreme working dog and ideal companion. Because of their exceptional intelligence, these dogs require a great deal of attention and stimulation, meaning first time dog owners should be aware of the time and effort involved.
8. Shih Tzu
This ‘Toy Dog’ breed is a perfect choice for those looking to buy a companion pet as they totally love people. As such they are recommended for first time dog owners being social and brilliant with children. Because they are social in nature, they do not like to be left alone and are prone to barking due to separation anxiety.
9. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed and as such requires very little exercise; unlike the Shih Tzu they do not require high maintenance on the grooming front. A very loyal breed, Chihuahuas are highly playful and fun to be around but can get a little exasperated in the company of younger children and toddlers. These delightful tiny dogs seem to have a sense that they are bigger than they are.
10. Dachshund
Last but no means least out of the top ten is the adorable Dachshund, bred out of Germany as a hunter of badgers, rabbits and game. Quite stubborn and single minded, they can also become very protective, but with good training and socialisation they are extremely affectionate, fun loving and energetic. Although their stubborn nature doesn’t make them an ideal first dog, they are low maintenance in every area.
We hope you enjoyed our little run through the top ten most popular dogs: was your dog featured here? If not we will take you through from ten to twenty next time...
Give us a call...
Don’t forget, whatever type of dog you own, whether pure breed or a cross breed, Joanne at Beauty Petz would be more than happy to give them an amazing grooming experience which both dog and owner will be delighted with…
Call us on: 07984 027 571