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.
9. American Water Spaniel
The rarest breed of spaniel in the UK is the American Water Spaniel - with one Kennel Club registration last year. It was developed in the American state of Wisconsin in the 19th century, where it remains the official state dog. | Canva/Getty Images
10. Laekenois Belgian Shepherd
The Lakenois is one of four types of Belgian Shepherd - the others being the Groenendael, the Malinois and the Tervuren. Easy to distinguish from the others due to its rough hair, not a single one was registered last year. | Canva/Getty Images
11. Kuvasz
The Kuvasz is a Hungarian breed which was used to guard the country's royal family back in the day. They are now a popular family pet, although not in the UK where none were registered last year. | Canva/Getty Images
12. Komondor
Another Hungarian breed that wasn't registered a single time in the UK last year is the Komondor. Declared as a national treasure in Hungary, it was traditionally used as a sheepdog and are easy to spot thanks to their 'mop' coat. | Canva/Getty Images