Most Popular UK Dog Breeds | Animal Friends

Guide / Most Popular UK Dog Breeds

Elena Barnard

Animal Friends Pet Insurance

Choosing Your Dog Breed

When choosing the breed of dog you would like to take home, there are many factors that should be considered. Each breed of dog has specific breed traits and it is advisable to match up these characteristics with your lifestyle. For example, it is a myth that small dogs need less exercise than larger dogs, a prime example is the Yorkshire Terrier, a small dog that has boundless amounts of energy. It may not be wise therefore to take this dog in if you are out of the house quite a lot and cannot give them the time they need to play and expel their energy. At the same time it is unwise to jump to conclusions and stereotype certain breeds as most of the time it is down to responsible ownership.

If you are planning on raising a dog from the puppy stage then knowing the breed can be a major advantage in the early and often most critical stages of training. If you are planning on adopting a dog then be sure to visit the dog enough times to be certain that their disposition/personality will fit in well with your lifestyle.

Pedigree Dogs

A pedigree dog is similar to a pedigree cat in that it is usually a purebred dog; a dog bred to continue on the line of certain characteristics common for their breed and linage. Quite simply, a dog’s pedigree is a list of its parents, grandparents, great grandparents and great great grandparents etc. If you are thinking of buying a pedigree dog then ensure that the breeder has at least 3 generations back listed, with a minimum of one titled dog in the puppy’s lineage.

What are the most popular dog breeds in the UK?

According to the Kennel Club, the most popular dog breed in the UK is the Labrador. Noted for its intelligence, obedience and friendly disposition, this dog is perfect as a family pet. The Labrador is also very popular in other parts of the world, most notably America where it is also the most registered pet dog. The Cocker Spaniel and English Springer Spaniel both come in second and third respectively whilst the German Shepherd and Staffordshire Bull Terrier stand at fourth and fifth.

Family Dog Breeds

Unsurprisingly, the Labrador is one of the best dogs to have in a family with small children. They are loving, loyal, playful but more importantly, patient; characteristics that are all essential to have when mixing a dog with small children. Slightly smaller than the Labrador, a Golden Retriever is similar in disposition but is neither timid nor aggressive, making them great family dogs. Other breeds that mix well with small children include the Pug, the Collie and the Beagle.

