But in Jersey the lovable labrador has come out as top dog when it comes to being man’s best friend.
Microchipping data compiled over the past decade has revealed which are the most popular breeds in the Channel Islands and the rest of Britain.
1. Labrador 509,500
2. Jack Russell 376,300
3. Staffordshire bull terrier 356,000
4. Border collie 233,700
5. Cocker spaniel 224,400
6. English springer spaniel 194,700
7. German shepherd 158,900
8. Yorkshire terrier 144,800
9. Shih Tzu 117,900
And top of the bill in Jersey are labradors, with 700 electronically tagged, followed by Jack Russells with 500 registered.
The figures also show that Islanders’ preferences regarding breeds echoes that of the UK where labrador and Jack Russells again proved the most popular with more than 509,000 and 376,000 tagged respectively.
Meanwhile, the data, from Petlog and Animalcare, revealed that there are 300 cocker spaniels, 200 border collies and 200 English springer spaniels registered in the Island.
Ian Cox, vet at New Era Veterinary Hospital, said he was not surprised that labradors had come out on top as he says they tend to have a ‘fantastic temperament’ and are ‘very trainable’.
But he added: ‘There are trends in dog ownership, often led by celebs. At the moment we are seeing a huge upsurge in the number of short-face breeds such as French bulldogs and pugs.
‘These dogs can have fantastic personalities but may suffer from airway issues. People should always try to think carefully before buying a dog to make sure they are aware of their temperament, exercise requirements and potential health issues.’
Steven Laffoley-Edwards, chairman of the Kennel Club of Jersey, said the dogs which had proved the most popular were loyal breeds.
He added: ‘Cocker spaniels are common for Jersey as they are perfect for people who have an office lifestyle. Border collies are very lively and need a lot of exercise and training. They’re ideal for people who like going on long walks. They’re not really suited for people in flats as they will go stir crazy.’
Meanwhile, in Guernsey Labradors again top the list, with 400 electronically tagged followed by 300 Jack Russells, 200 cocker spaniels, 200 English springer spaniels and 100 West Highland white terriers.
The data, which included five million dogs but excluded the numerous permutations of crossbreeds, also revealed that Liverpool was the most popular postcode for Shih Tzus, while greyhounds are the dog of choice in Halifax, West Yorkshire.
