The numbers behind our dog-crazy nation: The National Dog Survey
Nearly one in three dog owners now describe their pet as their "fur-baby", with millions of Britons buying their dogs Christmas presents, celebrating birthdays and even changing jobs to suit their canine companions, according to one of the UK's largest surveys of dog owners.
The findings, from Dogs Trust's National Dog Survey of more than 180,000 people, reveal the extraordinary role dogs play in family life and communities across the UK. The survey is a truly unique insight into the nation's relationship with our favourite pets, including the most popular names and breeds as well as the behaviour of dog owners and their prized pooches.
Releasing the results to celebrate National Dog Day on Wednesday 26th August, Dogs Trust reveals how an overwhelming 90% of owners believe dogs should be treated as members of the family, while almost a third (32%) describe their pet as a "fur-baby" or "fur-child".
The survey found owners increasingly organise their lives around their four-legged family members. More than four in five (81%) buy their dog a Christmas present, while almost three quarters (74%) celebrate their dog's birthday or "gotcha day".
For many, devotion to their dog goes even further. More than a third (36%) have chosen a UK holiday instead of travelling abroad because of their dog, 35% have cancelled social plans in order to stay with their pet, and one in seven (15%) have changed jobs or adjusted their working hours to better care for their dog.
Dog ownership remains one of the nation’s uniting passions. 82% of respondents say having a dog has led to more positive social interactions, while more than half (54%) say it has helped them feel more connected to their local community.
The survey also reveals changing trends in what Britons are calling their pets. Poppy remains the UK's most common female dog name overall and Milo retains the top spot for males.
However, the biggest mover is Mabel, which has surged in popularity among puppies born this year despite not featuring in the top 20 female names just five years ago.
The survey results show the popularity of over 18,000 different dog names, including unique and less-common names including 34 dogs in the survey named Tinkerbell, nine called Mr. Pickles, and 18 who answer to Phil.
Meanwhile, greyhounds continue to enjoy a renaissance, climbing from 15th place among dogs acquired in 2023 to become the UK's sixth most popular breed acquired so far in 2026. Mixed breeds, Labradors and Cocker Spaniels remain the most popular breeds for the fifth year in a row.
Owen Sharp, CEO of Dogs Trust, said:
“Dogs are Britain’s most beloved pets, and our National Dog Survey is a unique insight into the country’s love affair with our pooches.
“Whether it’s treating them like members of the family, buying Christmas or birthday presents, or even changing their job arrangements to help look after their dogs, people in Britain are crazy about our furry friends.
"At Dogs Trust, we of course know that not every dog is lucky enough to have a loving home, but these results show that millions of Milos and plenty of Poppies are fully fledged family members."
For full survey results, and to check the popularity of any dog’s name using our new online checker, visit www.dogstrust.org.uk
