We’re officially a nations of dog owners, with the UK’s most popular pet living in around one-in-three households (and rising).
That means that there are around three million pooches living here, with more people choosing to join the army of dog lovers every week.
Of course, if you are looking to welcome a dog into your family, there are 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest addition.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
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.
Spaniels are a type of dog that are hugely popular in the UK, perfect for people who have active lifestyles (they need plenty of exercise).
These are the 10 most popular breeds of Spaniel in the UK, according to UK Kennel Club registrations in 2024.
9. Irish Water Spaniel
Holding the distinction of being the tallest of all the spaniels, the Irish Water Spaniel gots it's name from its native country and its love of water - which has been used to great use over the years by those hunting waterfowl. It's easy to tell them apart from their newer American counterparts due to the tuft of frizzy hair on the top of its head. There were 53 new Irish Water Spaniels registered last year. | Canva/Getty Images
10. King Charles Spaniel
Completing our list, with 45 Kennel Club registrations in 2024, is the King Charles Spaniel. Sharing much of its history - and its name - with its slightly larger Cavalier cousin, the King Charles Spaniel's association with royalty dates back to Queen Mary I. It also has a rounder head and a shorter nose than the far more popular Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. | Canva/Getty Images