Most popular dog breeds in the UK: is yours on the list?

Key takeaways

• Around 33% of households own a dog, while 27% own a cat.

• Every breed comes with different characteristics and potential health concerns that can affect ownership costs.

• Choosing a dog is about more than popularity. It's about finding the right fit for your lifestyle, home and budget.

The UK's favourite dog breeds

Dogs have long held the top spot as Britain's favourite pet. With around 13 million dogs living in UK homes, ownership has increased significantly in recent years as more people welcome four-legged companions into their families. According to survey data from YouGov, these breeds are the most popular, based on the percentage of people who have a positive opinion of them:

Which breeds are falling out of favour?

Just as some breeds soar in popularity, others have slowly drifted from the spotlight. The Standard Poodle, Irish Wolfhound, Greyhound and West Highland Terrier have all seen registration numbers decline over recent decades.

There are several reasons behind changing tastes. Urban living has made smaller dogs more appealing for some owners, while the decline of traditional working roles and sports has reduced demand for certain breeds. Some vulnerable native British breeds now see fewer than 300 puppies registered each year, raising concerns about their long-term future.

Why mixed breeds are still a popular choice

Although pedigree dogs dominate registration rankings, mixed breeds remain hugely popular across the UK.

One reason is their individuality. From distinctive markings to unique personality traits, no two crossbreeds are exactly alike. Some owners are also drawn to the idea of "hybrid vigour", where a broader gene pool may reduce the likelihood of certain inherited conditions.

That said, mixed breeds can come with a few unknowns. It can be harder to predict a puppy's future size, appearance and temperament compared to a purebred dog.

Whether your dog is a Labrador, a Cockapoo or a complete mystery mix from a rescue centre, what matters most is finding a pet that's right for you.

Choosing the right dog for your lifestyle

It's easy to fall in love with a breed after seeing it on social media or meeting one in the park. But choosing a dog is a long-term commitment.

Before bringing a pet home, think about:

• How much exercise they need

• Grooming requirements

• Potential health concerns

• The size of your home

• Ongoing costs, including food and veterinary care

And because even the healthiest pets can get sick or injured, it's worth thinking about protection too.

Protect your pet with Howden and Uris Group

That's why we're excited to launch Howden Pet Insurance in partnership with Uris Group. Because when life's little surprises happen, pet insurance can help you focus on what matters most: getting your furry friend back to their happy, tail-wagging self. The lifetime cover provides ongoing protection for pets, including veterinary fees for illness and injury, alongside a range of additional benefits such as:

• Third-party liability

• Emergency boarding

• Holiday cancellation and

• Support if a pet is lost or stolen

• Multi-pet discounts

• 24/7 app and online veterinary advice through FirstVet

From playful puppies to grown up cats, we'll help get them covered with a range of cover levels to suit their needs. Find out more here.

Sources: YouGov, Dogster