Every country has its national favourites when it comes to our beloved pooches. The UK is no different. Up and down the country, certain breeds always prove to be a hit with Brits. While the exact list changes marginally depending on who you ask and what poll is conducted, we’ve come up with an overall list of the UK’s five most popular doggies in 2025. Some of the entries may surprise you or leave you barking mad.
Labradors and Golden Retrievers
A long-time favourite, not just in the UK but in many Western countries, Labradors and, specifically, Golden Retrievers. As any dog lover will know, these two are not the same breed. However, they are often mistaken for one another (due to their appearance). Both are amongst the most popular pooches in the UK, so we’ve bundled them together here.
Both dogs can be used as guide dogs and therapy dogs and feature in search and rescue operations. Known for being friendly, these energetic dogs have short, dense coats and are highly valued for their trainability and intelligence. There’s always the odd screwball, though, but that just makes these very happy dogs even more likeable. Labradors like space, so it’s unwise to get one if you live in a flat or apartment. They also love playing, so ensure there is enough room to do that in your garden or take your dog to a nearby beach for playtime.
English Cocker Spaniel and Cockapoos
Known for their fierce loyalty and family-orientated nature, English Cocker Spaniels are a quintessentially British breed, highly valued amongst hunters for flushing out catches. The UK is home to two very distinct types – show/companion dogs and working cockers. Both affectionate and happy to learn and train. They are generally good with children, too.
Again, we know that they aren’t the same breed, but it’s also worth mentioning Cockapoos here, as they, too, are hugely popular with UK dog owners. A mix of either American or English Cocker Spaniels and Poodles, they are sometimes deemed to be designer dogs and quite sought after. This crossbreed is also people-orientated, like English Cocker Spaniels. Because of its crossbred genetics, though, there can be a great deal of divergence between the thickness and low-shedding ability of its coat. Grooming is considered very necessary for Cockapoos.
Dachshund
You might not think that these German dogs would be overly popular in the UK, but they are. In fact, they regularly appear in top five lists, often supplanting the traditional British Bulldog. Also called sausage dogs, Dachshunds in the UK generally have smooth-haired coats, although foreign breeds can be wire or long-haired.
Dachshunds are well-liked in the UK because they are generally small, making them great for living in cities. They have a reputation for being mischievous and stubborn but are intelligent and very loyal, at least to those who know them – strangers can get the short end of the stick where barking is concerned. Despite being small, Dachshunds can be rowdy, especially if left alone. They really crave being around their owners.
Border Collie
Earning their name because they come from the border region between English and Scotland, Border Collies are often considered the most intelligent dogs. Border Collies act as working dogs on farms, and a fully trained sheepdog can set you back tens of thousands of pounds. Outside of farms, Border Collies are also renowned for being great family bets.
Border Collies can use their intelligence to solve problems and are eager to learn. They are highly trainable for a variety of purposes but aren’t always confident around strangers. These are very emotionally active dogs, and they have been known to develop anxiety and become destructive if not stimulated. These high-energy dogs require over two hours of physical activity daily, so if you’re thinking of getting one, get ready for nothing short of a workout.
German Shepherd (Alsatian)
Despite their name change to Alsatian during the First World War, German Shepherds have been loved by many famous faces in history – including some deeply unpopular ones. In the UK, though, they are one of the most popular dog breeds. Known by either name in the UK, Alsatians or German Shepherds are fiercely loyal, excellent learners and always alert. For this reason, they are regularly used by UK police forces and make for decent guard dogs.
Alsatians are highly trainable but can become upset without regular stimulation. Expect up to two hours of physical exercise daily with German Shepherds. They need to be taught obedience over time. Notably much larger than other dogs on this list, Alsatians can have short, long or medium-length fur, are normally black, and require regular grooming. They tend to shed a lot in spring and autumn. Because of their size, they aren’t necessarily ideal for flats and apartments, although houses generally have enough space for them to wander around.
