AUSTRALIA’S MOST POPULAR DOG BREEDS REVEALED

Designer breeds, such as Cavoodles, Groodles, and Labradoodles, have surged in popularity.

Australia’s devotion to its four-legged friends continues to evolve, with new data revealing the most popular dog breeds in each state and territory for 2025.

According to Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia, national preferences reflect both longstanding favourites and the growing popularity of designer and hypoallergenic breeds.

“Australia is a nation of dog lovers, and every year, the list of most popular breeds shifts to reflect trends in pet ownership,” Crighton said. “From the ever-popular Cavoodle to the growing fascination with doodle breeds, certain preferences stand out across different states.”

NATIONAL TOP TEN

The Cavoodle remains the country’s top dog, followed by breeds like the French Bulldog, Golden Retriever, and Border Collie. Rounding out the national top ten are the Groodle, Miniature Dachshund, German Shepherd, Labrador, Maltese, and Poodle.

“The Cavoodle remains Australia's favourite dog, combining the best of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle,” Crighton said. “The ongoing trend of designer breeds, particularly those with hypoallergenic coats, has contributed to the popularity of doodles like the Groodle and Labradoodle.”

Traditional working breeds, such as the Border Collie and German Shepherd, continue to earn their place, mainly due to their intelligence and adaptability.

STATE-BY-STATE SNAPSHOT

New South Wales Cavoodles lead the pack in NSW, followed closely by the French Bulldog and Golden Retriever. “New South Wales dog owners show a preference for family-friendly, intelligent breeds,” said Crighton, adding that Golden Retrievers and Border Collies reflect the state’s love for active, trainable dogs.

Queensland Cavoodles are also top in Queensland, with French Bulldogs and Golden Retrievers trailing. The list also includes Labradors, Maltese, and the ever-popular doodle breeds. “Queensland’s list closely mirrors the national ranking, with an added emphasis on breeds that thrive in warm weather,” Crighton said.

South Australia Border Collies and German Shepherds feature prominently in South Australia’s top ten, highlighting the appeal of working breeds. Doodles like the Groodle and Labradoodle also remain strong. “South Australians appreciate versatile working breeds,” Crighton noted.

Victoria, the Cavoodle, holds the top spot, with the Golden Retriever taking second. Poodles and Groodles are popular among Victorians, reflecting a preference for intelligent, low-shedding breeds. “The high ranking of the Poodle and Groodle also suggests that many Victorians are drawn to intelligent breeds with low-shedding coats,” said Crighton.

Western Australia’s top ten includes a unique appearance from the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier. “Western Australia stands out with the inclusion of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and American Staffordshire Terrier, both known for their loyalty and protective nature,” said Crighton.

Northern Territory: Distinctly different from the other states, the Northern Territory favours rugged, energetic breeds. “Northern Territory’s list is unique, favouring working and hunting breeds that thrive in rugged environments,” said Crighton. Jack Russell Terriers, Boerboels, and Great Danes are among the most popular.

WHY THE DIFFERENCES?

Breed popularity varies widely depending on climate, lifestyle, and living arrangements. Urban areas, such as Sydney and Melbourne, tend to favour apartment-friendly breeds, while rural and hotter regions exhibit stronger preferences for working or heat-tolerant dogs.

“Climate, lifestyle, and even allergy concerns play a major role,” said Crighton. “The ongoing rise of doodle breeds across all states reflects a growing demand for intelligent, low-shedding pets suited to allergy-prone owners.”

THE DOODLE DOMINANCE

Designer breeds like Cavoodles, Groodles, and Labradoodles have surged in popularity, thanks to their low-shedding coats and good temperament.

“These breeds offer the best of both worlds: the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle, combined with the temperament and loyalty of breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Golden Retriever, and Labrador,” Crighton said.

LOYALTY, INTELLIGENCE, AND LOVE

Despite the rise of new breeds, traditional favourites still hold firm in Australian hearts.

“While the Cavoodle remains the undisputed leader, the continued success of traditional breeds like the Golden Retriever, Labrador, and Border Collie proves that Australians still have a deep love for loyal, intelligent companions,” Crighton said.

Whether it’s a doodle with a designer coat or a classic working dog, one thing is clear: Aussies are barking mad for their furry mates.