Top Dog Breeds 2023: These are the 16 most popular breeds of dog in Britain

Top Dog Breeds 2023: These are the 16 most popular breeds of dog in Britain
Margaret Davies

New data from pet insurance brand ManyPets has revealed the most popular dog breeds of 2023.

ManyPets collected the data from its database of over 50,000 dogs to look at top dog names and breeds.

In terms of dog breeds, cross breeds are still the most popular followed closely by Cocker Spaniels in second, Labradors in third and Cockapoos and Cavapoos rounding out the top 5.

1. Mongrel

A mongrel, mutt or mixed-breed dog ranked first on the list. It is described as a dog that does not belong to one officially recognized breed, including those that result from intentional breeding. Although the term mixed-breed dog is sometimes preferred, many mongrels have no known purebred ancestors.

2. Cocker Spaniel

The Cocker Spaniel, also called the American Cocker Spaniel came in at number two. They are described as an affectionate and energetic dog breed prized for their hunting abilities.

3. Labrador Retriever

The sweet-faced, lovable Labrador Retriever is one of the UK's most popular dog breeds, year after year. Labs are friendly, outgoing, and high-spirited companions.

4. Cockapoo

The Cockapoo is a friendly, playful, hypoallergenic, and low-maintenance cross between a Poodle and a Cocker Spaniel.

5. Cavapoo

Equal parts cute, cuddly, and clever, the Cavapoo is a small (8-25 pound) crossbreed between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Miniature Poodle or Toy Poodle.

6. Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is a Scottish breed of retriever dog of medium size. It is characterised by a gentle and affectionate nature and a striking golden coat. It is commonly kept as a pet and is among the most frequently registered breeds in several Western countries.

7. French Bulldog

Frenchies are known for being pretty laid back and adaptable, so they tend to get along well with children of all ages which makes them popular family pets .

8. Dachshund

The name dachshund is of German origin, and means "badger dog. A loyal companion who's plucky and alert. Originally bred for hunting the Dachshund's unique build enabled them to chase animals in their burrows.

9. German Shepherd

Generally considered dogkind's finest all-purpose worker, the German Shepherd Dog is a large, agile, muscular dog of noble character, known for their high intelligence, loyalty, and protective instincts.

10. Border Collie

The Border Collie is a British breed of herding dog of the collie type of medium size. It originates in the region of the Anglo-Scottish border, and descends from the traditional sheepdogs once found all over the British Isles. It is kept mostly as a working sheep-herding dog or as a companion animal.

11. Jack Russell

The Jack Russell Terrier is a small, energetic, and intelligent breed known for its bold and lively nature, originally bred for fox hunting. They are described as upbeat, lively, inquisitive and friendly.

12. Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier, also called the Staffy or Stafford, is a purebred dog of small to medium size in the terrier group that originated in the northern parts of Birmingham and in the Black Country of Staffordshire, for which it is named. They are known for their courage, intelligence and love of children.

13. Labradoodle

The Labradoodle is a friendly, intelligent, and hypoallergenic designer breed that is a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. They are notorious for being high maintenance dogs. Their energy levels need to be cared for with proper exercise and they have coats that need good and regular grooming.

14. Sprocker Spaniel

A Sprocker Spaniel is a mix between a Springer Spaniel and a Cocker Spaniel. They are incredibly intelligent and easy to train. They're loyal and good with children, making them ideal family pets.

15. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a toy dog or pet dog breed originating from Tibet and believed to be bred from the Pekingese and the Lhasa Apso. They are known for their short snouts and large round eyes, as well as their long coat, floppy ears, and short and stout posture. They are loyal, playful and have an affectionate personality.

16. Black Labrador

Known for their sweet and affectionate nature, Black Labradors are easy-going, rewarding pets with high energy levels, meaning they love extra attention and exercise. They make excellent companions, as well as assistance dogs due to their sensitive and affectionate nature.

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