The results of the UK’s largest dog census are in, and it’s clear that we are still very much a nation of dog lovers, with 99 per cent of respondents viewing dogs as family, and 98 per cent of dog owners agreeing that their dog makes them happy.
The results of the survey revealed that although dog owners across Northern Ireland still love a crossbreed – 42 per cent of dogs living here are crossbreeds - when it comes to specific breeds, there are some distinct favourites.
Here are the top 10 favourite dog breeds in Northern Ireland, according to the Dog’s Trust survey.
5. Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is Northern Ireland's fifth most popular dog breed. These intelligent gundogs have a distinctive gold or cream coat. Photo: unsplash
6. Jack Russell
The Jack Russell terrier comes in at sixth place on the list of favourite dog breeds in Northern Ireland, according to the Dog's Trust survey. Terriers were originally bred and used for hunting vermin. Photo: unsplash
7. Shih Tzu
The cute Shih Tzu is Northern Ireland's seventh most popular dog breed. In its early days it was known as the Lhasa Lion dog. Photo: pexels
8. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier comes in at eighth place in Northern Ireland's top 10 favourite dog breeds. This 'toy' breed is recognised as a small dog with a big personality! Photo: unsplash