All about dogs
Are dogs really our best friend? Here's what thousands of dog owners said.
43 per cent of those who filled in the Big Pet Census own a dog, with many of you owning more than one.
The ten most popular dog breeds from the Big Pet Census
- 40 per cent are a small, medium or large cross breed
- 9 per cent are Labrador retrievers
- 7 per cent are cocker spaniels
- 6 per cent are border collies
- 5 per cent are jack russell terriers
- 5 per cent are cockapoos (cocker spaniel and poodle mixed breed)
- 4 per cent are Staffordshire bull terriers (staffies)
- 3 per cent are German shepherds
- 3 per cent are English springer spaniels
- 3 per cent are greyhounds
Five most popular dog names from the Big Pet Census
- Poppy
- Luna
- Bella
- Daisy
- Teddy
The top 5 words people use to describe their dog
- Loving
- Funny
- Loyal
- Affectionate
- Happy
Do our dogs really ‘smile’?
In England, 68 per cent of dog owners say that their dog does smile. The number is even higher in Wales, where 70 per cent of dog owners think their dogs flash us a grin from time to time.
We love talking about our dogs!
When we asked, "How often do you talk about your dog during the day?" 40 per cent of people in England and Wales said they mention their dog a few times a day. But for 30 per cent of respondents in England and 32 per cent in Wales, owners will happily talk about their dog at least once an hour!
Celebrating your dog’s birthday
82 per cent of those we spoke to say they celebrated their dog’s birthday, showing just how much their pets are part of the family.
Taking your dog on holiday
46 per cent of dog owners in England and 44 per cent in Wales take their dog on holiday, with the highest rates in the West Midlands and Mid Wales (54 per cent) and the lowest in London (35 per cent).
[Illustrations by Laura Ireland]
