10 Most Popular Dog Breeds in Australia Today

Nearly three-quarters of Australia households have a pet, and over half of Australian households have a dog. Dogs come out time and again as the most popular pet. Recent research suggests that millennials are treating their dogs like fur-babies.

Buying special outfits for their dogs to wear.
Letting them sleep with their doggy parents.
Leaving the TV or radio on for them. There are even special programmes now for dogs and cats.
Buying presents for special occasions.
Taking them on holiday.
Taking time off work to look after them.
Cooking especially for them.

So what are the most popular breeds of dog today?

Factors Affecting Popularity

There are some factors that affect the popularity of different dog breeds –

Environment and lifestyle – Smaller dogs can be more suited to living in urban areas. They may require less exercise than larger dogs. This can be an important factor as research suggestions only around 27 – 37% of people take their dogs a walk every day. Some dogs can be better suited to living in an outdoor environment. The heat is also important as long haired dogs may struggle in hotter environments.
Working dogs may be more popular in agricultural areas, such as South Australia.
Hypoallergenic dogs that shed less are increasingly popular with owners with allergies.
Pet owners also have to consider how good dogs are with children and other pets.

Designer Breeds

So called Designer Breeds have increased in popularity in the last ten years. Mongrels or mutts are dogs with a variety of different breeds in their background. Designer breeds are dogs bred from specific breeds. Poodle crosses are very popular. For example, groodles and cavoodles.

Pure Breeds

Pure breeds are dogs from a single, recognised lineage. For example, Border Collies.

What are the top ten most popular dogs in Australia?

At number 1, comes a designer breed, the Cavoodle. Cavoodles or cavapoos are a cross between Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and poodles. They are also increasing popular in Australia. Cavoodles are popular due to their cuteness and hypoallergenic coat. They are also family friendly and intelligent. Their small size is also useful for living in smaller homes and apartments.
In second place comes the French Bulldog. French bulldogs are playful, affectionate and adaptable. They are loyal and can be very good with children if socialised properly. They can be a tad stubborn, which can make training difficult at times, but generally respond well to training due to their high intelligence.
Golden retrievers are loyal, friendly, intelligent and great as a family pet. But they are not great guard dogs and they do need a lot of grooming. They also have a lot of energy, so exercise and stimulation is important.
Border Collies are another breed that needs a lot of activity and exercise. They need constant mental and physical stimulation, or they can be destructive when they are bored. A border collie known to one of our tutors destroyed an entire sofa within ten minutes of their owner leaving home! But they are loyal, affectionate, intelligent and very trainable.
At number 5 is another designer breed - the Groodle. Groodles, also known as goldendoodles, are a cross between a golden retriever and a poodle. Groodles are popular because they are a family friendly dog. They look cute and have low shedding of their fur. They have become increasing popular for people living in urban areas.
Number six is the miniature dachshund. They are great companions, as they are affectionate and adaptable little dogs. Their size makes them suitable for apartment or city living. But their size also makes them prone to obesity, and you have to be careful with them as they can be fragile and prone to back injury. They also have a lot to say and are very prone to barking.
No. 7 - German Shepherds have a lot of energy. Without proper training, this can lead to aggression, but a well-trained German Shepherd will be loyal, affectionate and intelligent. They are naturally protective, making them excellent guard dogs. They are prone to shedding, so do need regular grooming.
At number 8, Labradors are great with children. They are highly intelligent, loyal and affectionate. They are prone to obesity and hip dysplasia. They are a high energy dog and require a high level of exercise. As with German Shepherds, they are also prone to shedding, so do need regular grooming.
Number 9, the ever popular Maltese – Their hypoallergenic coat makes them great for people with allergies, but their long, silky coat does require regular grooming and maintenance. They are prone to separation anxiety. They are loyal and devoted family pets and great for first time owners. They are fragile, so it is important not to be too rough when playing with them.
Last but not least, at number 10 - the poodle is intelligent and highly trainable. Their coat is hypoallergenic, but does require regular grooming and care. Poodles are great family dogs. They do need physical and mental stimulation.

Golden retrievers, German Shepherds and Border Collies remain popular because of their versatility and high intelligence. They also fit in well with families who live more outdoor lifestyles.

Labradors and Maltese are popular in warmer areas, because of their low-shedding coat and their ability to thrive in warmer weather. They enjoy time on the beach too, and are particularly popular with people in Queensland.

People will choose their dogs because of –

Appearance
Their coat
Their temperament
Their need for exercise
Their loyalty
Their territorial behaviour if they want a good guard dog

Different families will want different types of dogs to suit their needs.

Ready to become the ultimate dog care expert? Enrol in our comprehensive Dog Care Course today and learn everything from grooming techniques to health tips that will keep your furry friend happy and healthy. Don’t wait - give your dog the best care possible. Sign up now!

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10 Most Popular Dog Breeds in Australia Today

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