With research showing that there are currently around 11 million pet dogs in the UK, it’s official…we love our poochie pals! From gentle Golden Retrievers to enthusiastic Cocker Spaniels, dogs can make a great addition to the family. Did you know…recent research even suggests that viewing your furry friends as part of your family can increase wellbeing!
Are you thinking of welcoming a dog into your family? While every dog is unique and needs to be considered on an individual basis, there are some breeds that may be better suited to family homes than others. To share the love for our furry friends and to celebrate National Pet Month, we're revealing the top 10 most popular family dog breeds on TikTok of 2024, according to combined views on breed-related hashtags.
Dr Anna has also put together her top tips on what to consider when becoming a dog owner, including how to find the right dog for your family.
1. Golden Retriever - 60.3 billion views
It comes as no surprise that Golden Retrievers take the top spot as the most popular family dog breed, with 60.3 billion combined views under the hashtag #GoldenRetriever. Renowned for their gentle temperament, obedience and playfulness, these adorable dogs will make affectionate companions that all the family will love.
2. German Shepherd - 22 billion views
German Shepherds continue to rise in popularity, with the hashtag #GermanShepherd beingviewed 22 billion times, up by almost 4 million in the last 6 months. If you’re a very active family with lots of space and time for training, this energetic breed will be a loyal and trustworthy companion.
3. Labrador Retriever - 14.4 billion views
You won’t be shocked to see Labradors on our list of the most popular family dog breeds. With 14.4 billion views under the hashtag #Labrador and 5.3 billion under #LabradorRetriever, families all over the world adore how fun, friendly and trustworthy these pooches are.
4. Border Collie - 9.2 billion views
Similarly to German Shepherds, the beautiful Border Collie is well-suited to families who are very active and have lots of time to play. Accumulating a huge 9.2.billion views under the hashtag #BorderCollie, these intelligent dogs are one of the most hard-working, enthusiastic breeds in the world.
5. Beagle - 4.8 billion views
Do you want to welcome a smaller dog with a bigger personality into your family? Playful, curious, excitable and not afraid to be heard, Beagles are one of the most popular family dog breeds, with the hashtag #Beagle gaining 4.8 million views. Beagles are very popular with families who already have pets as they tend to get along with other animals, although this of course depends on the specific dog.
6. Cocker Spaniel - 3.3 billion views
Like Beagles, the playful and energetic nature of Cocker Spaniels also makes them an ideal playmate for families. Easy to train and eager to please, families all over the UK fall in love with Cocker Spaniels everyday which is why they’re consistently one of the top 3 most popular dog breeds in the UK over the last decade, with the hashtag #CockerSpaniel receiving over 3.3 billion views.
7. Bichon Frise - 707.8 million views
Coming in 7th with 707.8 million views under the hashtag #BichonFrise, these small, curly-haired beauties are incredibly popular with families. While you need to ensure you’ll have the time to maintain and groom its gorgeous coat, a Bichon Frise makes a great addition to any family, even those already with pets.
8. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel - 601.3 million views
We’re not surprised that the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has made the list of the most popular family dog breeds, amassing 601.3 million views under the hashtag #CavalierKingCharles. This sociable, playful and easy-going breed has seen a huge rise in popularity over the last couple of years, particularly during King Charles III coronation last year, where online searches for ‘King Charles Cavalier Spaniel’ increased by over 65%.
9. Border Terrier - 360.3 million views
Affectionate, loyal, easy-going, lively, curious, fun…there are millions of words to describe how wonderful Border Terriers are as a family companion. With 360.3 million views under the hashtag #BorderTerrier, these energetic pooches will fit right into your family.
10. Airedale Terrier - 32.1 million views
Taking the final spot in the top ten, the hashtag #AiredaleTerrier has 32.1 million combined views. You may not have expected to see this breed as one of the most popular, but they are fantastic pets for particularly active families who enjoy long country walks and playing games!
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