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Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world, with approximately 48% of households having at least one dog as part of their family. According to the RSPCA, there are more than 600,000 pet dogs in our country.
Dogs are clearly popular pets, but you may be wondering what the most popular breed is. We’ve pulled together a list of the 15 most popular dog breeds in Australia based on recent data.
It’s important to note that while these dogs are widely adored, some come with particular breed-related health issues that you should be aware of.
Regardless of the breed of your dog, it’s also worth considering pet insurance to keep your hound healthy and happy.
Related: Our Pick Of The Best Comprehensive Pet Insurance Policies In Australia
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The Top 15 Most Popular Dog Breeds In Australia This Year
In 2022 and 2023 alone, Dogs Australia recorded a staggering 125,443 dog registrations across the country.
The following list uses Dogs Australia’s statistics regarding the most popular dog breeds in Australia in terms of registrations.
It is important to note that not all dogs are registered despite it being a legal requirement in most states—and certainly a requirement in order to take out a pet insurance policy.
1. Labrador Retriever
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Labs have long been synonymous with the perfect family dog. As playful, energetic and loyal dogs, they’re ideal for families with young kids and a backyard. They’re also easy to train since they’re eager to please their owners.
An intelligent dog with boundless energy, a Labrador Retriever will need a good amount of space and time to exercise. More than two hours of exercise per day is recommended for this breed.
Labs have a thick double coat so they are prone to shedding, but you can reduce this by brushing them at least once per week. During high-shedding seasons like spring and summer, you may need to brush them daily.
In the past two years, 9772 Labrador Retrievers have been registered in Australia. Plus, even prior to 2022, each year for the past decade was seeing more than 5000 registrations for the breed, demonstrating Australians’ ongoing love for the energetic breed.
2. Golden Retriever
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Golden Retrievers, similar to their labrador counterparts, are also wonderful family companions—with 7813 being registered in Australia in the past two years alone. Gentle and friendly, these dogs are known for their affectionate and loving demeanor.
When it comes to exercise, goldens need more than two hours a day. These smart and active dogs love playing fetch and swimming. They also require mental stimulation and do well with training. Due to their size and needs, they would do best with a backyard or in close proximity to a park.
Goldens have a longer and thicker coat than labradors, making them high shedders. It’s recommended to brush them daily or at least twice per week.
These canines have similar health concerns to labradors: they’re also prone to hip dysplasia, ACL tears and joint issues. Research also suggests that goldens unfortunately have a higher risk of cancer than most dogs.
3. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
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Known as a Staffie, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is the third most common dog in Australia, with 7523 registrations in the past two years. Their popularity isn’t surprising, as they are known to be a highly intelligent, loyal, and affectionate breed.
Staffies love to play, so having ample dog toys around the house is essential for this breed. They also require at least an hour of exercise a day, and as a well trained dog, that could simply be an hour running off-leash in a park (if appropriate).
Their coats are smooth and short, meaning they don’t shed all too much. Staffies can be brushed once a week to avoid an increase in shedding during summer months, but are genuinely low-maintenance when it comes to grooming.
Unfortunately, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier breed is particularly prone to four serious diseases: arthritis, hypoadrenocorticism, cancer, and heart disease.
4. Bordie Collie
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Bordie Collies are known as an Australian Working Dog breed, as they were imported to work with the herds when our sheep farming industry began. While some are still hard at work, many of the 5229 Border Collie’s registered in the past two years are now beloved household pets.
Hailed as one of the world’s smartest dog breeds, Bordie Collies can be easily trained with discipline. But with this intelligence comes a need for much mental and physical stimulation: whether that’s running, agility work, swimming, obedience training, and more.
Border Collie’s have beautiful coats, which are actually double coats consisting of a guard coat and a shorter undercoat. The guard coat is longer, and therefore needs to be groomed quite regularly.
While Bordie Collies are known to be a relatively healthy breed, certain genetic conditions and diseases can still occur, with the leading cause of death for the breed being cancer.
5. German Shepherd
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German Shepherds don’t just make great police and search and rescue dogs, they also make for loving house pets, which wouldn’t come as a surprise to the Aussies that made up the 4910 German Shepherd registrations over the past two years.
As a high-energy breed with a protective side, German Shepherds can become territorial of their chosen family. They are also highly intelligent and require lots of mental stimulation.
Smart breed dogs tend to be more mischievous because they get bored easier, but to prevent this, you can stimulate your dog through training, sports, chew toys or nose work games.
German shepherds also respond well to commands, and are keen on being given regular ‘jobs’.
Health issues for this breed include hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy (a neurological disorder), Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) and others.
6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are not quite as regal as their name may suggest, but they are a breed that originated in the United Kingdom. While still popular overseas, they are growing in popularity in Australia too—4344 were registered in the past two years.
As a breed, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels exercise needs are adaptable. They can be both active dogs or lap dogs who cuddle up on the sofa. This breed is typically calm and quiet, so you won’t have to worry much about barking and aggressive behaviour, either.
Unfortunately, Cavaliers do come with advanced health risks. The main concern is mitral valve disease, which is a heart condition. One study suggests that as many as 90% of Cavaliers will develop mitral valve disease, a heart condition, by the age of 10.
Other issues are syringomyelia (fluid-filled areas around the spinal cord that cause pain), dry eye and ear disorders.
7. Cocker Spaniel
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Coming in at seventh on the list of the most popular dog breeds in Australia is the Cocker Spaniel, with 3655 registered in the last two years alone. A Cocker Spaniel is actually one of two different dog types: the American Cocker Spaniel and the English Cocker Spaniel, depending on their country of origin.
Both American Cocker Spaniels and English Cocker Spaniels are bred in Australia, but they are usually all referred to simply as Cocker Spaniels regardless. They are an intelligent breed, which makes training usually quite a simple process; however, they can be known to bark a lot.
Due to their beautiful and lush coats, Cocker Spaniels do require quite a bit of grooming and upkeep, since they shed heavily. They also require regular trims.
Along with their luscious coats, Cocker Spaniels also have endearing and inquisitive eyes, which are unfortunately one of their leading causes of health problems: cataracts, cherry eye and progressive retinal atrophy are common among the breed.
8. French Bulldog
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French bulldogs, or Frenchies as they’re affectionately called, have skyrocketed in popularity in Australia, with 3424 Frenchies registered in the past two years.
Frenchies only need up to one hour of exercise per day. Since Frenchies are a brachycephalic breed, meaning their face is flat, they can easily have trouble breathing which can mean they often require operations. You’ll have to pay special attention when exercising your Frenchie to ensure they’re not overheating during exercise, and avoid over-exerting them in hot or humid weather.
Frenchies shed moderately but are typically considered low-shedders. They also aren’t a very vocal breed and won’t bark much.
Related: Pet Insurance For French Bulldogs In Australia
9. Mini Schnauzer
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Miniature schnauzers are another terrier on this list, with 3162 of the breed registered in Australia recently. As with most terriers, they are a high-energy, obedient and outgoing companion, but they also do tend to bark a lot. This behavior should be discouraged from an early age with training, such as puppy school.
Miniature schnauzers don’t need much exercise and will be satisfied with a couple of daily walks, brain games and indoor play. They are quick learners and do well with training but may get bored easily, making constant mental stimulation essential for this breed.
A miniature schnauzer’s coat comes in three colors: salt and pepper, black and silver and solid black. Their hair is hard and wiry and will need combing once or twice a week. They can be taken to get professionally groomed every five to eight weeks.
Health concerns for this breed include cataracts, pancreatitis, high cholesterol and kidney and bladder stones.
10. Rottweiler
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Rottweilers are in the working group of dog breeds, meaning that they thrive when they have an activity or ‘job’. Combined with their protective and alert nature, they make excellent watch or guard dogs which many Australians desire, evident through the 3020 registrations of Rottweilers in the past two years.
Despite their territorial nature, they’re also a loving and loyal breed and with proper training and socialisation, a Rottie’s instincts can be controlled.
A rottweiler is a big dog, typically standing between 22 to 27 inches and weighing between 80 to 135 pounds. They’re an active breed and are great for accompanying you on a jog or long walks, and they also enjoy games and sports.
Despite their protective nature, rottweilers aren’t known for being a very vocal breed. You won’t hear them bark much outside of protecting their territory and loved ones.
When it comes to health concerns, rottweilers tend to have higher cases of hip dysplasia, eye issues such as progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts, as well as heart issues.
11. Aussie Shepherd
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Another herding dog on this list, Australian Shepherds are known for their boundless energy and gorgeous coat. They’re loyal, tough and brainy, but the main characteristic of this breed is that they need a job and training to be happy. They are not a breed for sedentary owners.
Many owners tend to have Australian Shepherds help out on a farm or ranch, or they get them heavily involved in dog sports such as agility competitions. In the past two years, 2783 Australian Shepherds were registered here in Australia.
Brain games are also important for the breed, such as food toys, hide and seek around the house, and dog sports.
An Aussie’s coat is of medium length and has average shedding. They will need to be brushed once or twice a week. Aussies are a hearty breed but some health issues include hip and elbow dysplasia, eye problems and epilepsy.
12. Dachshund
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The Dachshund breed came in as the 12th most popular breed for Australians, with 2720 registrations during the years of 2022 and 2024. There are different types of Dachshunds, with the most common in Australia being the short-haired.
Often called weiner dogs, dachshunds are known for their long bodies and short legs. They’re funny, curious and have endless energy. But as with many small dogs, they can be feisty, especially when you enter their territory.
This also means that they tend to be a vocal breed. Dachshunds have a loud bark and will use it along with their bold personalities to express themselves.
A dachshund’s grooming needs depend on the type you have. Dachshunds have three different types of coats: short-haired, long-haired and wire-haired. Short-haired dachshunds don’t require much brushing, but long-haired dachshunds have hair that can get matted if not brushed daily.
Health problems for dachshunds are mostly back problems due to their anatomy.Intervertebral Disc Disease or IVDD is very prevalent in dachshunds. To prevent this, try to limit your dog from jumping off the sofa or any other strenuous exercise that can place stress on its back.
13. Toy Poodle
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Poodles are known for being smart and social as well for their beautiful, high-maintenance coats. As one of the most intelligent dog breeds, Poodles also need lots of exercise and brain games to be content.
Poodles come in a standard size, miniature size and toy size. The Toy Poodle is the most popular in Australia, with 2332 registrations in the past two years.
Generally, regardless of size, poodles tend to be proud, playful, friendly and bright. They’re good with other pets, strangers and children, making them quite versatile.
When it comes to their coat, poodles need a lot of care. Rather than poodles being big shedders, their hair tends to get matted. To prevent this, you’ll need to brush them every other day. They will also need to be professionally clipped and groomed about every six weeks.
As far as health issues go, poodles are prone to gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV), Cushing’s disease, eye issues like progressive retinal atrophy and more.
14. German Shorthaired Pointer
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German shorthaired pointers are another breed that does well with a job, training and vigorous exercise. This is because they are highly intelligent and active dogs and historically, they’ve been used as efficient hunting dogs.
One interesting fact about this breed is that they’re known for pointing. A leftover instinct from their hunting nature, German shorthaired pointers will often stop and go into a “pointing” stance to show you something interesting. They’ve even been known to point while dreaming.
Due to their high-maintenance exercise and mental stimulation needs, German shorthaired pointers are not for relaxed, inactive owners. There were 2004 German Shorthaired Pointers registered in Australia in the past two years, which is understandable considering we are largely an active society.
German shorthaired pointers tend to be a vocal breed and will often bark and whine to get attention. Skin and ear infections, as well as eye diseases have also been noted as troublesome issues for the breed.
15. Boxer
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Boxers are another breed that’s known for being protective of their owners. They’re a muscular dog that requires training and plenty of opportunities to exercise. Also due to their protective nature, socialisation is important to limit a guarded attitude and any excessive territorial barking.
The breed comes in as 15th on our list of most popular dogs in Australia, with 1847 registered in the last two years. But just because they finished last doesn’t mean they aren’t a great match for you or your family: boxers are also known for being comical, energetic and loyal, are playful with children and generally get along well with other pets.
As another flat-faced breed, Boxers are prone to heat stroke. Their time in hot or humid weather should be limited. Other health issues are different types of cancer (brain tumours, mast cell tumors, etc), irregular heart rhythm (called ARVC or “boxer arrhythmia”) and GDV.
Which Dog Breed Is Best For Me?
The above list looks at the most popular breeds for dog owners in Australia, but that doesn’t mean that one of them would be best suited for you. With hundreds of different breeds of dogs, your best fit could be a breed you haven’t even heard of yet!
On Dogs Australia, you can fill in a ‘Breed Matcher’ survey which will provide you with some breeds that would best suit your lifestyle, living situation, and capabilities in terms of providing for the dog, whether that’s by food costs, exercise, training, or the cost of the necessary pet insurance policy for its health needs.
Related: How To Find The Best Pet Insurance Policy For Your Dog
We’ve also done some research to look at the best breeds suitable for different types of owners below:
Most Suitable Dogs for Active Owners
If you’re looking for a dog to take on long runs each day, you’ll need to find a dog that both enjoys physical activity and is physically capable of it. Some of the most suitable dogs for active owners include:
- German Shepherds are smart and energetic large sized dogs “recommended to active families with older children”, Bow Wow Meow Pet Insurance says.
- Border Collies are also recommended to active families by Bow Wow Meow Pet Insurance, as they “require considerable physical and mental stimulation”.
- German Shorthaired Pointers are “ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, as [the breed] thrives in activities like running, hiking, and swimming”, Sharon Nguyen, a vet nurse at Petsy Pet Insurance told Forbes Advisor Australia.
“We recommend tailoring exercise to the specific needs and health conditions of your pet, it’s always recommended to talk to a registered breeder or vet specialist about the breeds that might be right for you,” Nguyen says.
Most Suitable Dogs for Young Children
Speaking with Forbes Advisor Australia, Annie Lee, a vet nurse and customer care operator, at Fetch Pet Insurance gave her three top picks for young children.
- Golden Retrievers are a top pick, with Lee saying her own Golden Retriever has been “brilliant” with her toddler as it is “playful, high energy, and super duper easy to train”.
- Poodles and Poodle crosses are another great option for families with young children, Lee says, as they love attention from adults and kids alike.
- Labradors are Lee’s next choice, saying they are very social, friendly and protective, while remaining gentle. “They can be really good with children and often have beautiful relationships with them,” Lee says.
Most Suitable Dogs for Seniors
Dogs make wonderful companions, especially for the elderly in desire of some company at home. RSPCA Pet Insurance recommends seniors look for “gentle, smaller breeds of dogs”, such as the following:
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: the easy-going pup that only weigh around a maximum of nine kilograms, making them a great lap warmer
- Bichon Frise: while it didn’t make the top 15 in terms of dog popularity in Australia, that doesn’t mean this breed isn’t a wonderful companion, especially for the elderly as they are very low maintenance.
- Pugs: another breed that didn’t make the most popular list is another that perfectly suits senior citizens—after all, pugs prefer sleep over exercise and are often closely attached to their owners.
The Benefits Of Pet Adoption
Regardless of what breed of dog you are seeking, don’t overlook the possibility of adopting your new companion instead of purchasing directly from a store or breeder. If your heart is set on a specific breed, it could be worth looking at a variety of shelters near you to see if any are available.
After all, according to the latest RSPCA statistics, more than 18,778 dogs were received to their shelters alone last year. There are many other shelters across the country as well: at the time of writing, PetRescue has more than 3000 dogs in need of adoption; SavourLife has nearly 2500 dogs in its shelters; and
In regards to the 18,778 dogs with the RSPCA last year, there were 15,903 which were lucky enough to find their forever homes. However, a total of 2,875 dogs were euthanised, emphasising the importance of considering adopting instead of shopping.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many dog breeds are there?
The official number of dog breeds is contested around the world, as different groups govern the registration of canines depending on the country. For example, the American Kennel Club recognises 195 different breeds, while the Federation Cynologique International (based in Belgium) recognises 360.
Here in Australia, Dogs Australia says that “for more than 60 years, [it] has supported the responsible breeding of over 200 unique breeds of pure-bred dogs through our registered breeder and breed club networks”.
Which breeds have the longest lifespan?
Small dog breeds are known to have longer lifespans than larger breeds do, evolutionary experts at the University of Melbourne suggest it probably has something to do with the faster rate at which large dogs age.
MadPaws, a Sydney-founded pet sitting startup, found some of the longest living dog breeds include:
- Chihuahua: average life span of 15 to 20 years.
- Aussie Shepherd: average life span of 13 to 15 years.
- Beagles: average life span of 12 to 15 years.
- Maltese: average life span of 12 to 15 years.
- Australian Cattle Dog: average life span of 12 to 15 years.
- Yorkshire Terrier: average life span of 12 to 14 years.
But dogs can surprise you, some living much longer than you’d think. After all, the oldest living dog in history is Bluey, an Australian Cattle Dog from Victoria, who lived double the average life expectancy for her breed.
Bluey continues to hold the Guinness World Record for Oldest Dog at 29 and a half years old. Imagine how old that would be in human years!
How do you choose a dog breed?
There are many factors to consider when choosing a dog breed. This includes (but is not limited to):
- Your accommodation: do you live in a house with a backyard, or an apartment with only a small balcony?
- Your availability: will you be able to spend time with your dog regularly and fulfill its companionship requirements, considering some dogs can be left alone for long periods and others cannot? Do you have the time to train your dog, and play with your dog?
- Your physical desires and capabilities: do you want a dog to go on long runs with you, or are looking for a four-legged friend to curl up on the couch with? Do you have the physical strength to control a large dog on walks?
- The household: are there elderly people living in your house, or young children and babies? What about other pets?
- Allergies: does anyone in your family have allergies? If so, you would want to look for a breed that has minimal shedding and/or is hypoallergenic.
Dogs Australia has a ‘Breed Matcher’ survey which will provide you with some breeds that would best suit your lifestyle when considering the factors above. There are also many other surveys and questionnaires out there for you to take if you want another opinion and, of course, you can always talk to a vet or a breeder about the type of canine companion that would suit you best.