It’s estimated that 27% of UK adults own a dog, with our beloved four-legged friends deemed the most popular choice of pet worldwide.
In fact, adding a loyal creature to your home is possibly the best gift that you can give yourself, but the one thing that keeps people from taking the next step is their inability to decide on the perfect breed for them.
With the Fédération cynologique internationale [FCI] officially recognising 360 breeds, it’s no wonder the decision is difficult when you’re so spoilt for choice. To give you a helping hand, we’ve put together a list of 5 of the UK’s most favourite breeds, together with insight into why they could be the perfect addition to your family:
Cocker Spaniel
It’s no wonder we’re drawn to the merry Cocker Spaniel with their big, dreamy eyes and impish personality. Originally developed as a hunting dog, they have gained international popularity as lovable companions.
They’re known for being easy-going and gentle, but filled with an abundance of life, which is why they’re great for keeping your children entertained and on their toes. They can have a variety of colours, and their long-feathered ears and shiny coat give them a regal appearance.
They’re clever dogs who love to please and can be easy to train in the right hands. If properly socialised, they can be incredibly friendly and are a popular choice for first time owners because of their gentle natures.
Labrador Retrievers
A member of the gundog group, these dogs were originally trained to retrieve game that had been shot and wounded. Nowadays, these devoted and affectionate dogs are a popular choice for companion for their high-spirited and outgoing nature.
They have more than enough love to go around and they’ll get along with everyone. Labradors are obedient, quick to learn and eager to please, so training is considered fairly easy and satisfying for both dog and owner.
With the right socialisation, Labradors are considered the perfect family pet, bonding well with the whole family. They’re patient and loving, which makes them ideal for being around children, and their love of play and exercise will guarantee that the whole family gets a good night’s sleep.
Dachshund
Also commonly known as the ‘sausage dog’, these canines may be small, but they have a big personality! They’re entertaining due to their playful nature, so there’s never a dull moment with a Dachshund around.
They’re loyal and loving, but definitely have an independent side when it comes to training. They respond well to positive, reward-based training, and you’ll need to set clear boundaries and be consistent and patient to get the most out of these little rascals.
These dogs do well with experienced owners who are prepared for their little quirks. Due to their heart that’s filled with love, Dachshunds don’t really do well on their own and would prefer to have someone around in the day that they can play with.
Cockapoo
When it comes to finding a great family dog, you can’t go wrong with a Cockapoo. These Cocker Spaniel and Poodle hybrids get along with everyone, from strangers and young children to other family pets.
They enjoy a good walk and an exciting game of fetch, but they’re not too high energy and are equally happy snuggling up with their owners for a cuddle on the sofa. But their best trait is that they come with an abundance of love an affection.
Cockapoos have a laid back and friendly nature, so they tend to treat everyone as their best friend. Their happy temperament is great for any household, and their gentle playfulness is ideal for families with children.
French Bulldogs
Frenchies are considered the perfect city dogs because they do well in small spaces, aren’t too noisy, and are often very fond of people. These lap dogs were created to comfort stress souls, which makes these loyal and affectionate dogs the perfect family pet.
These family-oriented dogs will crave your company, so don’t leave them alone for too long during the day. They enjoy a good play with their family or other pets, but they don’t require too much exercise. Countryside activities, such as long walks and outdoor swimming, aren’t suitable for this breed. Their flat noses make it difficult for them to breathe when over-exerted, particularly when it’s hot, and their small yet stocky legs make it hard for them to paddle.
French Bulldogs are truly a joyful and friendly companion, and they get along well with children and other pets. Their small size means they are fine to live in smaller homes, so you don’t need to panic if you’re home isn’t the biggest, or there’s a lack of garden space. They’re also great for those living in apartments because they’re only known to bark if something really needs your attention.
Conclusion
There’s an abundance of reasons why these dogs are some of the UK’s favourites, and there’s myriad breeds that you could also take time to consider. But it’s important to remember that any dog can be the perfect pet with the right love, care, and attention given by their owner.
It’s important to do your research before committing, ensuring your chosen breed matches your lifestyle and that you understand your expectations and responsibilities. Vet bills can be costly, so make sure you find out about any possible health conditions your pet could be susceptible to, and make sure you have the right insurance to give your dog the best care, and yourself some peace of mind.
No matter what breed you choose, remember that consistent training is key. If you keep that in mind, there’s no doubt that your canine companion will be a friend for life and the perfect addition to your family.