We’re a nation of dog lovers, with around one-in-three households including at least one four-legged friend.
By far the most popular pet in the UK, they make for wonderful companions, all the while improving both our mental and physical health - and that’s a scientific fact.
The army of dog owners continues to grow, with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds.
Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts the ability to adapt.
You also have the option of adopting a dog from a dog shelter for a minimal fee - for example from the Dogs Trust.
One thing to bear in mind is that some breeds of dog are vastly more popular than others - if you welcome a Labrador into your home, you’ll see numerous other Labs every time you go for walkies.
Meanwhile others will be sure to turn heads, being a rare sight at your local dog run.
The UK Kennel Club release breed statistics each year that break down how many dogs of each breed were registered.
Last year a total of 16 types of pup were registered one-or-less times.
Here are all 16.
5. Greenland Dog
A classic sled dog considered culturally important in its titular native land, the Greenland Dog originated in Siberia over a thousand years ago. There's not much use for sleds in the UK - perhaps explaining the single registration last year. | Canva/Getty Images
6. Pyrenean Mastiff
There was also a single registration of a Pyrenean Mastiff last year. The Spanish breed was traditionally used to protect flocks during their annual journey to high summer pastures. | Canva/Getty Images
7. Portuguese Pointing Dog
Not a single Portuguese Pointing Dog was registered last year. It's a specialist hunting dog used in Portugal or to help bag red-legged partridge. | Canva/Getty Images
8. Small Munsterlander
The Small Munsterlander is another member of the 'one registration' club. It's named after the Münster area of Germany from which it originated. | Canva/Getty Images