What is your favourite dog breed? A silky haired Golden Retriever, a characterful Miniature Schnauzer, or perhaps it's an energetic Cocker Spaniel? As 2023 comes to an end, we take a look at the latest dog registration figures in Britain to find out which breeds are the most popular. Has your dog made it into the top 10?
Britain's top 10 most popular dogs
Labrador Retriever
Total annual registrations: 44,311
The Labrador Retriever, commonly known as the Labrador, was the most registered dog breed in 2022 (the latest figures for 2023 are yet to be revealed - watch this space). This kind-hearted, lovable breed was developed in the UK, but it derived from a colony of fishing dogs in the Labrador region of Canada.
French Bulldog
Total annual registrations: 42,538
As its name suggests, this small dog breed – hot on the paws of the Labrador – originated in France. It first appeared in Paris in the mid-19th century; the result of a cross-breed between local Parisian ratters and Toy Bulldogs imported from England. The French Bulldog is playful, alert and sociable.
Cocker Spaniel
Total annual registrations: 29,491
Easy to train, quiet and faithful, this breed of gun dog is a favourite among British dog owners – perhaps it's those big dreamy eyes, long fluffy ears and sweet expression? The Cocker Spaniel is durable and sturdy, standing up to 40cm in height.
Dachshund (Miniature Smooth-Haired)
Total annual registrations: 15,308
Less than 5kg in weight, and with some of the shortest legs about, the Dachshund (Miniature Smooth-Haired) is one of the smallest dogs in our top 10. The breed originated in Germany, where it is known as the Teckel (badger dog). They are clever, energetic and brave.
Bulldog
Total annual registrations: 11,667
This medium-sized British dog is short, muscular and can weigh up to 25kg. Bulldogs are friendly and docile, despite their bruising-looking physic. Their short coat can be a range of colours, from fawn to dark brown and white.
Golden Retriever
Total annual registrations: 11,075
The Golden Retriever is one of our most popular dog breeds, thanks in part to their friendly and devoted temperament, but so too for their long golden coat. They are medium to large in size, with males weighing up to 35kg.
English Springer Spaniel
Total annual registrations: 9,603
The English Springer – the second Spaniel to make the top 10 – is a breed of gun dog with an excitable and lovable personality. Long, soft ears and a trustworthy expression in their eyes make them a favourite in the UK, with almost 10,000 individual registrations in 2022.
German Shepherd
Total annual registrations: 7,211
The German Shepherd – also known as an Alsatian in Britain – is a large, agile and muscular dog originally bred for herding sheep. The German Shepherd has a noble character and is highly intelligent, which allows it to learn commands very easily.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Total annual registrations: 6,561
The Staffy or Stafford is a small to medium-sized purebred dog, originating from Birmingham and Staffordshire, after which it is named. Tenacious and loyal in character, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier has a short coat and a dense, stocky body.
Miniature Schnauzer
Total annual registrations: 4,788
Last yet certainly not least on the top-10 list is the Miniature Schnauzer. It may be number 10 in terms of registrations but many dog lovers will rank it number one when it comes to cuteness. Its characterful, moustached face, coupled with its light and friendly personality make this breed a super family dog.
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About the figures
Dog registration figures are yet to be revealed for 2023, so our list is based on dog registration statistics from 2022.