As the sun rises over the Australian landscape, the familiar sight of dog walkers with their furry companions is a testament to the nation’s love affair with canines. Whether it’s the jogger with a loyal pup at their heels or the café-goer sharing a flat white with a four-legged friend, it’s clear that dogs are more than just pets—they’re part of the family. As this bond continues to grow, so do the trends in breed preferences.
As we settle into 2025, it seems that the preferences of dog lovers are evolving. Pet Insurance Australia has just released their list of the most popular dog breeds for the year, and the results may surprise you.
Gone are the days when the Maltese Cross, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and Kelpie Cross reigned supreme. Instead, new favourites have emerged, reflecting a shift in lifestyle and family dynamics.
The French Bulldog, Miniature Dachshund, and Labradoodle are now among the top contenders, with Australians favouring breeds that are well-suited to smaller living spaces and the hustle and bustle of modern life. These breeds offer the perfect blend of companionship and adaptability, making them ideal for city dwellers and those with busy schedules.
Yet, one breed continues to capture the hearts of Australians year after year: the Cavoodle. This delightful cross between a King Charles Cavalier and a Poodle has consistently topped the charts, and it’s not hard to see why.
Cavoodles are intelligent, affectionate, and highly adaptable, making them the perfect pet for families, allergy sufferers, and anyone looking for a low-shedding, easy-to-train companion, according to Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia.
Their popularity is so widespread that Cavoodles are the number one breed in all but one state’s list of favourite breeds, with the Northern Territory being the exception. Here, the rugged environment and unique lifestyle have led to a preference for working and hunting breeds like the Jack Russell Terrier, Boerboel, and Great Dane, instead.
The rise of the Cavoodle and other designer breeds is a clear indication of the changing landscape of pet ownership in the country. As pet lovers become more conscious of responsible pet ownership, it’s crucial to choose a breed that aligns with their lifestyle.
The Cavoodle, with its friendly disposition and adaptability, seems to be the perfect fit for many.
This just shows that the popularity of dog breeds is as dynamic as the people who love them. As lives change, so too do preferences for canine companions. It’s a fascinating trend to observe, and one that speaks volumes about the evolving nature of a pet owner’s relationship with their beloved four-legged friends.
Here’s a closer look at Australia’s top ten dog breeds for 2025:
1. Cavoodle
2. French Bulldog
3. Golden Retriever
4. Border Collie
5. Groodle
6. Miniature Dachshund
7. German Shepherd
8. Labrador
9. Maltese
10. Poodle
The continued love for breeds like the Golden Retriever and Border Collie shows that Australians still cherish intelligent and family-friendly dogs. Meanwhile, the popularity of the Labradoodle and French Bulldog suggests a growing demand for pets that are both affectionate and adaptable.
As you navigate the ever-changing world of pet ownership, it’s important to stay informed and choose a breed that not only captures your heart but also fits seamlessly into your life. Whether you’re a seasoned dog owner or considering bringing a new pup into your home, understanding these trends can help you make the best decision for your family.
We’d love to hear from you, our YourLifeChoices readers, about your experiences with these breeds and any others that have captured your hearts. What breed do you have, and why did you choose it? Share your stories in the comments below.
I don’t like cross bred dogs at all. They have been cross bred just to make money for the breeder.