The Rise and Fall of the French Bulldog
With their distinctive ears and playful personalities, it’s no surprise that French bulldogs have been a top choice for dog lovers for over a decade. However, this long-standing dominance has finally come to an end. According to recent data, the cocker spaniel has taken the crown as the most popular breed in the United Kingdom.
A report from Pets4Homes analyzed 7.5 million pets rehomed over the past six years and found that “flat-faced” breeds like the French bulldog are becoming less favored. These dogs, while charming, often come with health complications and high price tags, which may be contributing to their declining popularity. In contrast, the cocker spaniel has seen a significant rise in demand, securing its place at the top of the list.
The royal family has played a role in this shift. Prince William and Princess Kate adopted a cocker spaniel named Orla in 2020 after losing their previous pet, Lupo, also a cocker spaniel. This endorsement likely helped boost the breed’s appeal among the public.
Another breed making waves is the miniature dachshund, which has entered the top three for the first time. Celebrities such as Prince Harry’s ex-girlfriend Cressida Bonas and Game of Thrones actress Emilia Clarke have contributed to the breed’s growing popularity.
Pandemic Impact on Pet Ownership
The pandemic significantly influenced pet ownership trends. With more people staying home, there was a sharp increase in the number of people adopting new pets. However, this surge was followed by a decline due to factors like over-supply, rising living costs, and adoption fatigue. Despite these challenges, demand for pets rebounded in 2023, with a 33% increase in interest and a 14.3% rise in puppy prices.
While the cocker spaniel leads in overall popularity, the goldendoodle—known for being a mix between a golden retriever and a poodle—has become the most sought-after breed. According to Pets4Homes, each listing for a goldendoodle received around 900 interested buyers, followed closely by maltipoos (802) and golden retrievers (771).
Expensive Breeds and Changing Preferences
Some of the most expensive dog breeds include English bulldogs, which average £1,544—up by a quarter from the previous year. Cavalier King Charles spaniels cost £1,528, a rise of more than a quarter, while golden retrievers average £1,521, up 15.8%. Boxers are priced at £1,472, reflecting a 17.2% increase.
Axel Lagercrantz, CEO of Pets4Homes, explained that the decline of French bulldogs as the top breed reflects a broader societal shift away from dogs perceived as unhealthy. He noted that bulldogs are also among the most expensive breeds, and as the cost of keeping a pet rises, so does the preference for more affordable options.
Conclusion
The changing preferences in dog ownership highlight a growing awareness of health and cost considerations. While the French bulldog may no longer hold the top spot, the popularity of breeds like the cocker spaniel and goldendoodle suggests that consumers are looking for pets that are not only affectionate but also practical and healthy. As the market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these trends shape the future of pet ownership in the UK.
