Top 10: The Most Popular Dog Breeds in Australia Revealed

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Katy and Shell are two style-savvy dog mums who celebrate the best in pet-friendly living. A professional pet photographer and dog lifestyle writer, together they bring dog-friendly inspiration, pet product recommendations, dog treat recipes, pet expert advice and the best in emerging and designer dog brands into the homes of discerning pet parents around the world.

News just in! Pet Insurance Australia have crunched the canine numbers, and just released their list of the most popular dog breeds in Australia for 2021. And as it turns out, many of the same dog breeds have proven to be popular across every state.

The ‘who’s who’ list of favourite hounds features a variety of breeds, from purebreds to crossbreeds and poodle mixes. While the reasons behind their popularity vary – from being seen as the best family dog breeds to even the best apartment dogs – there’s one thing they all have in common: their family-friendly, lovable natures. Awwww.

Before seeing the list, do you think you could pick which breeds made the top 10? Or even top 3? Have a guess and see how close you get.

Whether your pup’s breed made the list or not, remember what’s most important – that they’re forever number one in your eyes!

Find out the top 10 popular dog breeds in Australia below, followed by the most popular breeds for each state.

The List: Top 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds in Australia

#10. Labradoodle

Popular traits: Intelligent, social, playful.

The extremely huggable labradoodle is known for being highly social and friendly with people, children and other pets – making them one of the best family dogs in Australia (although their super friendly nature does have a down-side…they don’t make the best watchdogs!) 

A cross between a labrador and poodle, labradoodles are actually born and bred Melburnians, having first emerged in Melbourne, Australia in the late 1980’s. 

Wonder if they appreciate coffee, art and brunch more than other breeds…?

#9. Miniature Dachshund

Popular traits: Lovable, energetic, curious.

Sausage dog, doxie, low rider, wiener dog, weenie…whatever you love to call them, miniature dachshunds are a top dog breed in Australia!

With a fun and curious nature, dachshunds are lovable lap dogs that make great family pets. Being highly energetic pups, they love digging and getting into mischief outdoors (they were originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers after all!)

Their small stature also makes them the best apartment dogs – just have those enrichment toys to hand to keep them stimulated and happy!

#8. German Shepherd

Popular traits: Smart, faithful family pet, easy to train.

German shepherds are one of those majestic dog breeds who show kindness and courage in equal measure.

Known widely as ‘velcro dogs’, german shepherds are devoted dogs and very loyal to their fellow pack members, making them a wonderful family pet.

As one of the most intelligent and courageous dog breeds, german shepherds are a popular choice for serving in the military and police force. There’s not much they can’t do! 

#7. French Bulldog

Popular traits: Loving, sociable, lively.

Affectionately known as ‘frenchies’, there is much to love about this charismatic little breed.

Ever the life of the party, french bulldogs thrive on attention, and are as entertaining as they are friendly and affectionate. 

If you’re looking for the best apartment dogs, frenchies are another great choice. Yes, they can be couch potatoes, but don’t be fooled by their chunky bods – ball chasing is a passion, and their energy levels might surprise you!  

#6. Border Collie

Popular traits: Intelligent, loyal, energetic.

The beautiful and highly spirited border collie is also seen as one of the best family dogs in Australia.

Border collies are intelligent, well-mannered and highly energetic dogs, who would happily run around herding all day if they could! 

Their loyal, playful nature makes them a great family companion, best suited to active families who love exercise and the outdoors.  

#5. Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Popular traits: People-friendly, excited, loyal.

Nicknamed the ‘nanny dog,’ in England, it’s easy to see why lovable, friendly staffies have earned their reputation as a great playmate and guardian for children.

Sometimes stubborn, but more often sweet – staffies are intelligent and inquisitive dogs who just LOVE people, and basically want to be around you 24/7. 

Despite the negative myths about staffies and bull terriers that do the rounds, they are rightly recognised these days as wonderful family pets, and often used as therapy dogs. 

#4. Maltese Cross

Popular traits: Affectionate, intelligent, playful.

A bright, sweet and gentle breed, it’s no wonder maltese pups have charmed their way into the top 10 most popular dog breeds in Australia!

A top choice of breed for those who live in apartments or prefer small dog breeds, maltese crossbreeds are known for being both loving and playful – making them the perfect companion for singles, couples and families alike.

And if your maltese cross acts a bit on the regal side, don’t worry. Their breed originated on the island of Malta as a companion for wealthy families, after all.

#3. Golden Retriever

Popular traits: Kind. Trustworthy. Ideal family dog.

Say hello to the ‘Miss Congeniality’ of dog breeds! 

Golden retrievers are incredibly versatile dogs who get on with everyone, making them brilliant family pets and best friends.

A loving, sweet and playful breed, golden retrievers are not just intelligent but also eager to please. This sees them respond well to obedience training, and makes them a popular choice as service dogs for the disabled, as well as search and rescue dogs.

#2. Labrador

Popular traits: Gentle, even-tempered, trusting.

Similar to golden retrievers, labradors are loved for their family-friendly nature and beautiful temperament. 

A dog of many talents, kind and good-natured labradors make excellent therapy and military dogs, as well as loving family companions and one of the best dogs for children of all ages.

Interesting fact: The oldest known labrador was named ‘Adjutant’, who was born in August 1936 and died in November 1963, at the age of 27.

#1. Cavoodle 

Popular traits: Sociable, lovable, playful.

As adorable as they are affable, it’s no surprise to see cavoodles nab the top spot on the list of most popular dog breeds! 

A cross between a cavalier king charles spaniel and miniature or toy poodle, cavoodles are the ultimate trifecta – intelligent, fun and friendly (and those gorgeous fluffy curls work their charm too!)

The perfect companion for the majority of age groups and lifestyles, cavoodles fit in just about anywhere, and just love being with people. 

Their small size makes them a popular choice as apartment dogs, brunch buddies and all-round the bestest of furry friends.

Most popular dog breeds in Australia: state by state

So, how did you go? Did you pick cavoodles to take out the top spot across Australia?

If you would like to see the most popular dog breeds in your state, check out the list below.

Thinking about finding a furry best friend but not sure which breed to go for? Try this dog breed selector quiz by Petbarn.

NEW SOUTH WALES

1. Cavoodle
2. Labrador
3. French Bulldog
4. Golden Retriever
5. Border Collie
6. Maltese Cross
7. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
8. Labradoodle
9. German Shepherd
10. Golden Doodle

VICTORIA

1. Cavoodle
2. Golden Retriever
3. Labrador
4. German Shepherd
5. French Bulldog
6. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
7. Border Collie
8. Maltese Cross
9. Golden Doodle
10. Miniature Dachshund

QUEENSLAND

1. Cavoodle
2. Maltese Cross
3. Labrador
4. Miniature Dachshund
5. Border Collie
6. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
7. German Shepherd
8. French Bulldog
9. Labradoodle
10. Golden Retriever

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

1. Golden Retriever
2. Maltese Cross
3. Cavoodle
4. Border Collie
5. Labrador
6. German Shepherd
7. Kelpie Cross
8. Labradoodle
9. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
10. French Bulldog

TASMANIA

1. Labrador
2. Border Collie
3. Golden Retriever
4. Miniature Dachshund
5. Labradoodle
6. Cavoodle
7. German Shepherd
8. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
9. West Highland White Terrier
10. British Bulldog

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

1. Maltese Cross
2. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
3. Cavoodle
4. Labrador
5. Kelpie Cross
6. Golden Retriever
7. Border Collie
8. Staffordshire Bull Terrier Cross
9. Miniature Dachshund
10. German Shepherd

ACT

1. Cavoodle
2. Labrador
3. Golden Retriever
4. Maltese Cross
5. Kelpie Cross
6. Border Collie
7. French Bulldog
8. German Shepherd
9. Miniature Dachshund
10. Spoodle

NORTHERN TERRITORY

1. Kelpie Cross
2. Border Collie
3. Cavoodle
4. Rottweiler
5. Golden Retriever
6. Labrador
7. Maltese Cross
8. Miniature Dachshund
9. Spoodle
10. Australian Cattle Dog Cross