Swindon's Top Dog 

A new study of pet microchip data has revealed the most popular breeds in the UK, including Swindon's favourite pooch...

 

We're often described as a nation of dog lovers, and Swindon is no exception to the rule.

 

From Affenpinscher's to Yorkshire Terriers, and from Basset Hound's to Springer Spaniels - we really do love our 4-legged friends in Wiltshire!

 

But have you ever wondered which breeds are the most popular?

 

Well, recent data from pet registration companies Petlog and Animalcare allows us to reveal just that!

 

Taking data from over 5 million microchips, the analysis has for the first time ever given us a clear indication of the top dog breeds across the country, including Swindon!

 

 

And the winner?

 

The loyal Labrador! Yes, the breed made famous by the Andrex toilet paper adverts has triumphed in Swindon, pipping the little Jack Russell by a nose.

 

It's often said that Swindon is a good indicator as to what the rest of the nation is doing, and sure enough the Labrador leads the way across the UK with almost 510,000 Labrador's registered in the past ten years! That's a lot of Pedigree Chum!

 

Swindon's Top Dogs

 

1. Labrador Retriever - 6,100

 

Originally bred as a gun dog, the Labrador is a firm favourite within the UK.

 

This intelligent breed is great with adults and children alike, and is regularly used as an assistance dog for the blind, as well as a sniffer dog for drug and arms detection.

   

2. Jack Russell Terriers - 5,000

  

This small dog with a larger-than-life personality has its origins in fox hunting, and relies on a high level of exercise.

 

Spirited and obedient, this fearless dog is generally regarded as one of the easiest terriers to train.

   

A regular winner at Crufts, the Cocker Spaniel is a good-natured dog, easy to train, and is at its happiest foraging around fields and hedgerows.

 

As with many dogs, the Cocker Spaniel particularly thrives on human companionship.

 

  

4. Staffordshire Bull Terriers - 2,400

 

This popular dog, descended from a cross between the Bulldog and a terrier, is great with kids and one of the most popular of all the terriers.

 

Despite its historical connection with fighting, the dog has now become a firm favourite in the show ring.

 

5. English Springer Spaniels - 2,300

 

A lively breed that derived its name from its ability to spring upwards to startle birds into the air when out hunting.

 

As with many of the gundog breeds, the Springer Spaniel's playful nature makes for an extremely energetic companion!