Labrador reigns supreme as Northwest's favourite Dog in UK's Biggest Dog Survey

Teddy and Poppy – names you’ll likely hear echoing around the parks of Tameside and across the Northwest – have officially become the region’s most popular dog names, and fittingly, they often belong to the nation’s favourite breed: the Labrador Retriever.

That’s according to Dogs Trust’s 2025 National Dog Survey – the largest of its kind in the UK – which has lifted the lid on the habits, names, breeds and daily routines of dog owners across the country.

In the Northwest, it’s clear that our dogs are more than just pets, they’re family. Dog owners here spend an average of two hours and 14 minutes each day tending to their canine companions. That’s slightly above the national average and includes walking, grooming, feeding, and even running errands with their pooches in tow.

According to the survey, 41% of dogs in the region are crossbreeds, proving that Northwest dog lovers have a real soft spot for unique, one-of-a-kind pups. Popular mixes include Cockapoos, Cavapoos, Labradoodles, and Lurchers, all winning hearts with their quirky looks and lovable personalities.

When it comes to breed popularity, the faithful Labrador Retriever has once again claimed the top spot both regionally and nationally. In the Northwest, 7% of all dogs are Labradors, and across the UK, they make up 13.5% of all purebreds.

And if you thought naming your Lab "Teddy" or "Poppy" was a stroke of originality, think again! Those are the top names in the Northwest, followed closely by Luna, Bella, Milo and Alfie.

The data also revealed changing trends in breed popularity. Dachshunds have crept into the top 10 most popular puppy breeds under one year old for the first time, a sign of their rising status among dog lovers.

Mr Happy and Little Bear the Dachshunds.

On the flip side, French Bulldogs are starting to fall out of favour. Currently 15th for puppies under one, this drop may be linked to increased awareness around the health problems often associated with flat-faced breeds.

To celebrate the individuality of every dog, Dogs Trust has launched an interactive online quiz where owners can compare their pet’s name, breed, and location against national trends. You can try it yourself at How Does Your Dogs Name and Breed Compare? | Dogs Trust

But beyond the fun facts and rankings, the National Dog Survey serves a serious purpose. The insights gathered help Dogs Trust, the UK’s leading dog welfare charity, to shape its services and support offerings.

Owen Sharp, Chief Executive of Dogs Trust, explained: “With thousands of responses, the National Dog Survey paints a picture of the nation’s ever-changing relationship with its canine companions.

But the survey is more than just a snapshot of our favourite breeds and names. It helps us understand the impact of dogs, the challenges, and the joy of dog ownership. Whether you are one of the 94% of people who treat your dog as a member of your family, or you have a Labrador named Teddy, every dog deserves a loving home and the right support.”

Daisy and Kevin the King Charles Cavalier Spaniels.

The survey is generously supported by the People’s Postcode Lottery, whose players have raised more than £26 million for Dogs Trust since 2013 – transforming the lives of over 100,000 dogs through welfare services, rehoming efforts and behaviour support.

So, whether you’re walking your Cockapoo in Cheetham Park or playing fetch with a Labrador in Stamford Park, take pride in knowing you're part of a passionate community of dog lovers helping shape the future of canine care in the UK.