The 10 most popular dog breeds born in 2022, according to PetSure policy data

When it comes to dog breed, pet parents are often biased with their view of what they believe is the best dog breed based on their personal experience or preferences. To identify the most popular dog breeds in Australia, we analysed 2022 PetSure policy data to reveal the list of the most popular breeds. 

We also worked with our Veterinary Advisors to create a snapshot of the key characteristics, facts and insights of each breed.

Which dog breeds made the top 10 breed list?

1. Cavoodle

Coming in first place was the affectionate, intelligent and fluffy Cavoodle. Typically weighing between 5 and 12kg, the Cavoodle is suitable for active households who have time to exercise them daily and provide them with plenty of attention.

Based on 2022 PetSure claims data, Cavoodles may be prone to gastrointestinal conditions including hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, colitis and dietary indiscretion so pet owners should be mindful of their diet.

Did you know that many celebrities have Cavoodles? Hugh Jackman’s adorable Allegra features prominently on his social media accounts.

2. Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever came in at second place for the top 10 breeds list. As a large breed, Golden Retrievers typically weigh between 27 and 35kgs and need plenty of exercise. Often described as affectionate, active and intelligent, they are better suited to large properties with an outdoor space.

With a dense and wavy coat, Golden Retrievers can shed so regular grooming is required. According to PetSure claims data, they can be susceptible to skin conditions including lick dermatitis, hair loss and allergic skin disorders.

3. French Bulldog

Coming in third place was the playful and energetic French Bulldog. As a smaller breed, French Bulldogs may be suitable for apartment living but they still require a medium amount of exercise. 

PetSure claims data for 2022 shows the common health conditions for French Bulldogs are skin conditions, allergies and dermatitis. 

Fun fact – did you know that female French Bulldogs require cesarean sections to give birth due to the large head of the breed, and the female’s narrow pelvis!

4. Border Collie

The highly intelligent and energetic Border Collie made it to the top 5 of the list of popular dog breeds. Classified as a medium-large breed, Bordie Collies normally weigh around 17-20kg and are suitable for active pet parents who can exercise them regularly. 

With a medium-long coat, Bordie Collies often shed so this is something pet parents should be mindful of.

The most common health condition in 2022 for Bordie Collies was arthritis. 

5. Miniature Dachshund

Rounding out the top five popular breeds is the smooth-haired miniature dachshund. Often described as independent, intelligent and playful, the miniature dachshund is a great companion dog for active singles, families or for elderly pet parents. 

As a small breed, they normally weigh under 5kgs and are just 15cm tall.

Miniature Dachshunds may be prone to skin conditions including allergies, dermatitis and pyoderma. See our Miniature Dachshund breed profile for more breed insights.

Did you know that Dachsund means ‘badger hound’ in German? 

6. Golden Doodle (Groodle)

The Golden Doodle, or affectionately known as the ‘Groodle’, is one of Australia’s most popular dog breeds. As an affectionate and active breed, Groodles need plenty of exercise and are suitable for active households with larger properties.

The Groodle generally measures up to 61cm high and weighs around 37kg. With a long curly coat, Groodles may shed so regular grooming is needed.

Based on 2022 PetSure data, Groodles may be prone to skin conditions including allergies, dermatitis and pyoderma.

See our Groodle breed profile to learn more about this breed.

7. Labrador

The Labrador came in seventh place. With a friendly temperament, Labradors are intelligent and energetic and need a high level of exercise so they are better suited for larger properties. As a medium-large breed, Labradors typically measure 55-62cm high and weigh between 25-36kg.

With a short and thick coat, Labradors shed a lot so frequent grooming is recommended. As for common health conditions for Labradors in 2022, they can be susceptible to skin conditions including allergies and dermatitis. See our Labrador breed profile to learn more.

Did you know that in the popular American film Marley & Me, 22 different Labradors played the role of Marley?

8. German Shepherd

The German Shepherd is one of Australia’s most popular canine breeds. Described as active, alert and intelligent, this breed is suited for active people who are experienced with dogs. With a thick double coat, German Shepherds shed all year round, so regular grooming is needed.

Based on 2022 PetSure claims data, German Shepherds often experience skin conditions including allergies, dermatitis and pyoderma. 

Want to learn more about German Shepherds? Check out our breed profile.

9. Labradoodle

Number nine on the list is the family-friendly Labradoodle. As a medium-large breed, Labradoodles are great companion animals for active families in larger properties. 

Common health conditions for the Labradoodle including ear conditions like ear infections and aural haematoma. 

Fun fact – Sultan was part of one of the first official litters of Labradoodles. He lived in Hawaii where he worked as a guide dog up until his retirement, before turning to Australia.

10. Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Rounding out the top ten list of popular dog breeds is the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. As a medium breed, they typically weigh between 11-17kgs and need a high level of exercise so they are best suited for pet parents with an active lifestyle. 

Their temperament is energetic, playful and friendly and they need a lot of socialisation from an early age.

Based on 2022 PetSure claims data, Staffordshire Bull Terriers are prone to skin conditions including allergies, dermatitis and pyoderma. 

So whether you’re an existing pet parent or you’re looking to buy a companion dog, knowing popular dog breeds and the temperament, characteristics and common health conditions of a breed is a key to being a responsible pet owner because a pet is for life.

Pet insurance can help by covering a portion of the eligible vet bill if the unexpected happens. Because it is difficult to predict the costs of veterinary care, it can help to have measures in place to help prepare for the unexpected. Check out our partner network and explore our policy tools to find a pet insurance policy.

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