Greater Manchester’s favourite and least favourite dog breeds revealed

-Credit: (Image: SHARED CONTENT UNIT)
-Credit: (Image: SHARED CONTENT UNIT)


Puppies.co.uk has revealed Greater Manchester’s favourite and least favourite dog breeds.

Around 40% of UK households own at least one pet, and the most popular pet is a dog, according to research conducted by the Pet Food Manufacturers' Association (PFMA). The popularity of pet dogs continues to rise as people note the benefits of having companionship, and more and more establishments across the country are becoming ‘dog friendly’.

Read more: Huge Christmas party for dogs to take place in city centre - with free present for every pooch

And Manchester is not an exception to the rising popularity of dogs. But which breeds are the most popular? According to research from puppies.co.uk, an online marketplace which connects prospective dog owners to breeders, Greater Manchester has a firm favourite breed.

The most searched dog breed by Mancunians is the gorgeous Cane Corso. Cane Corso dogs are smart, easy to train and loyal. The name roughly translates from Latin to ‘bodyguard dog’.

Manchester’s most popular dog thrives in homes where they have a clear role and are part of a stable, structured environment. Early socialisation and training are key to ensuring that they are well-behaved around strangers and other pets.

Cane Corso dog
Cane Corso is Greater Manchester's favourite dog breed -Credit:West Lothian Courier

Cane Corso’s are large dogs, typically weighing between 41-54 kg and standing 24-28 inches tall. They tend to be independent so strict training is required.

In second place, there is a tie between two very different dog breeds - the cockapoo and the doberman. Both are very popular across the UK for various reasons.

Cockapoo dogs are a cross between a cocker spaniel and a poodle, and have become very popular among families due to their size and temperament. They are friendly and affectionate and tend to weigh between 4-11 kg.

Dobermans have taken Instagram and TikTok by storm recently, with adorable dobers getting social media pages dedicated to them.

Dobermans are known for their unwavering loyalty to their families. They are intelligent and naturally protective, which makes them excellent guard dogs. And despite their tough appearance, Dobermans are gentle and affectionate with their families, including children.

Doberman dog
Doberman dogs are among Greater Manchester's favourite breed -Credit:Andrew Teebay Liverpool Echo

There is controversy surrounding Dobermans regarding the illegal clipping of their ears to make them look more intimidating, which is currently prohibited under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Near the top of the list also sits golden retrievers, cocker spaniels, rottweilers, and dachshunds. On the other end of the table, Greater Manchester’s least favourite dog breeds include Kerry Beagle, Irish Glen of Imaal Terrier, Norwegian Lundehund, Bergamasco Sheepdog and the Chinook.

While there is a continuing increase in demand for pet dogs, there has been an increase in dog breeders too, but also a rising number of dogs that need homes.

Dogs Trust Manchester has many dogs that need loving homes.