Dogs come in all shapes and sizes - the UK Kennel Club recognises 221 different pedigree dogs, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).
Then there are all manner of crossbreeds, from so-called ‘designer dogs’ to lovable mongrels.
Each has its own list of positive and negative attributes, and it’s important to take plenty of time to think about what breed will fit into your lifestyle the best - for instance a smaller dog if you live in a flat, or a hypoallergenic dog if the mere mention of dog hair makes you think about sneezing.
There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
Meanwhile, if you are looking to get involved in the competitive world of dogs shows there are certain breeds that are tried and tested rosette winners.
Here are the 12 dog breeds who have most often won the coveted Best in Show price at Crufts - the world’s most famous dog show.
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1. English Cocker Spaniel
If you want the best chance of winning Best in Show then history tells us the English Cocker Spaniels is your best shot. They have won the title on a remarkable seven occasions. The last Cocker to win was Canigou Cambrai (also known as Albert) in 1996. | Getty Images for Westminster Ken
2. Irish Setter
Four breeds have won Crufts on four occasions since the competition was opened to all breeds in 1886 (for five years prior to this, the show was only for terriers). The first is the gorgeous Irish Setter with their eye-catching mahogany red coat. This breed's last victory came in 1999 when Caspians Intrepid, owner by Jackie Lorimer, took the title. | Getty Images for Westminster Ken
3. Standard Poodle
The second Crufts quadruple winner is the Standard Poodle - the largest of the three individual Poodle breeds. With their immaculately-groomed coats, Poodles are perhaps many people's idea of a perfect show dog | AFP via Getty Images
4. Welsh Terrier
The third of the four-time champs is the Welsh Terrier. Sadly this is a dog you will see fairly rarely - it is now classed as a vulnerable native dog breed by the Kennel Club after a steep drop in popularity. | Getty Images for Westminster Ken