This year, ITV surveyed 10,000 people across the UK and the results are in! Of the 217 recognised breeds, not to mention thousands of cross-breeds, which is our top 10 favourites? To see the full list, watch Britain’s Favourite Dogs: Top 100 on ITV catch up.
10. Mixed Breed
Not really a breed at all. It’s all about the underdog – mutts, mongrels and mixed breeds. Experts estimate that there are over 400,000 mixed breeds.
9. Golden Retriever
Number nine in Britain’s favourite dog breeds is this sporting pooch. Golden Retrievers have a sweet, gentle and people-pleasing personality. A well-bred Golden Retriever does not have strong guarding instincts, so don’t expect him to protect your home from burglars. They will, however, make friends with them and show them where the treats are.
8. German Shepherd
Extremely loyal and intelligent. The GSD is not only a great choice as a family pet, but they are extremely versatile in a working environment too. Also, these loveable, reliable dogs are highly prized by police forces, used to sniff out drugs.
7. Border Collie
The Border Collie is one of the most intelligent dogs on the planet, it can understand up to 1,000 words. For generations, the Border Collie has worked alongside shepherds both here in the UK and elsewhere in the world.
6. Boxer Dog
The Boxer’s origins are in Germany as a working breed in the late nineteenth century. The lovable Boxer has a big heart and bags of personality, full of energy and exuberance. They clown around with family and friends, are patient and playful.
5. Cocker Spaniel
Next up, is an extremely intelligent, kind, patient and loyal breed – the Cocker Spaniel. A bird dog at heart, the cocker spaniel loves food and will bond closely with the person who feeds it. They are happy, energetic dogs that adapt well to most lifestyles. Happiest exploring a back garden, park or countryside with their noses glued to the ground.
4. Springer spaniel
Springers are cheerful, friendly and easily trained. They are one of the most popular gundogs in the world, endeared by many. They have one of the best senses of smell of all breeds of dog, the military use them to sniff out explosives.
3. Labrador
The most popular assistance dogs in the world, if trained they can help with everything from doing the washing to answering the phone. They are great companions and commonly used as service and therapy dogs.
2. Cockapoo
This cocker spaniel and poodle cross is the most popular mixed breed in Britain and dates back to the 1960s. They are one of the oldest hybrid dog breeds or “designer” dogs around. Cockapoos are loyal, energetic, affectionate and fun-loving dogs that make wonderful family pets and companions.
1. Staffordshire bull terrier
This courageous, intelligent and loving breed has made it to number one! Staffies like nothing more than a warm lap to curl up on and an owner they can look up to for all the direction and guidance they need with loyalty and devotion. Sadly this breed is most likely to be found in rescue centres, but they have been rescued and loved by many.
Did you know, amongst the thousands of dog breeds we have across the UK and the rest of the world, there are many becoming extinct.
Do you have one of the top 10 dog breeds?
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