The Most Popular Dog Breeds in Australia, Ranked

The most popular dog breeds in Australia have been officially ranked, and the results are pretty adorable.

Pet Insurance Australia crunched the numbers and put together a full list of Australia’s favourite dogs, from classic purebreds to poodle crosses and everything in between.

Whether your pup made the top 10 or not, one thing is certain: they’re forever number one in your eyes. But scroll on to find out which breeds Australians love most, plus a state-by-state breakdown at the end.

Australia’s Top 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds

#10. Labradoodle

Popular traits: Intelligent, social, playful.

The labradoodle is one of Australia’s most huggable dogs, and their social, people-loving nature has made them a firm favourite with families. They get along with children and other pets effortlessly, making them one of the best family dogs around (though their friendliness does mean they’re not exactly cut out to be watchdogs!).

Fun fact: the labradoodle is actually an Aussie original, first bred in Melbourne in the late 1980s as a cross between a labrador and poodle. Born and bred Melburnians, really.

#9. Miniature Dachshund

Popular traits: Lovable, energetic, curious.

Sausage dog, doxie, low rider, wiener dog, weenie. Whatever you call them, miniature dachshunds are a top dog in Australia.

These fun, curious little pups make great family pets and surprisingly energetic housemates. Originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers, dachshunds still love digging and getting into mischief outdoors. Their small size makes them one of the best apartment dogs too, just keep those enrichment toys handy.

#8. German Shepherd

Popular traits: Smart, faithful, easy to train.

German shepherds are one of those dog breeds that manage to be both majestic and deeply devoted at the same time.

Known as “velcro dogs,” they bond closely with their families and are fiercely loyal to their pack. One of the smartest dog breeds around, German shepherds are a popular choice for military and police work, and just as beloved as a family companion.

#7. French Bulldog

Popular traits: Loving, sociable, lively.

Affectionately known as Frenchies, this charismatic little breed has personality to spare.

Ever the life of the party, French bulldogs thrive on attention and are as entertaining as they are affectionate. They’re a great option for apartment living too. And don’t be fooled by those chunky bodies: Frenchies have a surprisingly energetic side and absolutely love a game of fetch.

#6. Border Collie

Popular traits: Intelligent, loyal, energetic.

The border collie is one of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world, and Australians clearly agree.

Well-mannered, highly active, and deeply loyal, border collies are happiest when they have a job to do. They’re a wonderful family companion for active households who love the outdoors and plenty of exercise.

#5. Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Popular traits: People-friendly, energetic, loyal.

Nicknamed the “nanny dog” in England, it’s easy to see why staffies have such a devoted fanbase. They love people unconditionally and want to be around you at all times.

Despite the negative myths about staffies and bull terriers that still circulate, they are widely recognised as wonderful family pets and are often used as therapy dogs. Stubborn sometimes? Yes. But mostly just sweet.

#4. Maltese Cross

Popular traits: Affectionate, intelligent, playful.

Bright, gentle, and utterly charming, the Maltese cross has well and truly earned its place among the most popular dog breeds in Australia.

A top pick for apartment dwellers and small dog lovers, Maltese crossbreeds are loving, playful, and adaptable, making them a brilliant match for singles, couples, and families alike. Their breed originated on the island of Malta as a companion for wealthy families, which may explain the slightly regal attitude.

#3. Golden Retriever

Popular traits: Kind, trustworthy, ideal family dog.

If dogs had a “most universally loved” award, the golden retriever would win every year.

Golden retrievers are versatile, gentle, and eager to please, which makes them brilliant family pets and natural at obedience training. Their temperament also sees them regularly chosen as service dogs for people with disabilities, and in search and rescue roles.

#2. Labrador

Popular traits: Gentle, even-tempered, trusting.

The labrador is a perennial favourite, and it’s not hard to see why. Kind, patient, and endlessly good-natured, labradors are one of the best dogs for families with children of all ages.

Beyond family life, labradors excel as therapy dogs, military dogs, and loving companions across the board. And the record holder? A labrador named Adjutant, born in August 1936, who lived to the remarkable age of 27.

#1. Cavoodle 

Popular traits: Sociable, lovable, playful.

Australia’s most popular dog breed is the Cavoodle, and honestly, no one is surprised.

A cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a miniature or toy poodle, Cavoodles are intelligent, friendly, and completely irresistible. They suit almost every lifestyle and age group, slot into apartments as easily as large homes, and are genuinely happiest when they’re with their people. Those fluffy curls are just a bonus.

Most Popular Dog Breeds in Australia: State by State

Curious about the most popular dog in Australia’s own state? Here’s how the rankings break down across the country. And if you’re still looking for your perfect match, this dog breed selector quiz by Petbarn is a great place to start.

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

Shell & Katy Pretty Fluffy Editors

Shell & Katy are two style-savvy dog mums celebrating the best in pet-friendly living. A pet photographer and dog lifestyle writer, together they share trending pet products, recipes, inspiration and expert tips with discerning dog lovers around the world.