Let’s face it, dogs are the best people!
Dog ownership has sky rocketed since the pandemic began in 2020. Having a source of joy for you or your family is so important at a time like this. Surprisingly though, some of the dogs that are very popular at the moment weren’t so popular several years ago. So lets take a look at some of the most popular breeds for 2021. You may even find one that you love and jump onboard as a dog owner!
Over the last few years there has been a shift in the most popular breeds, and mixed or cross breeds, in particular ‘oodles’ (dog breeds mixed with poodles), have climbed to take out the usual favourites. These newer designer breeds such as Cavoodles, Labradoodles and Spoodles are quickly becoming the most popular dog breeds.
These breeds have so many good characteristics: a lovable nature, designer ‘teddy bear’ look and the attraction of having a non-shedding or hypoallergenic dog.
So which ‘Oodle’s take out the top spots?

Cavoodle
The Cavoodle (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel x Poodle) is one of the most popular of the ‘oodles’. It was first bred in the 1990s and has been growing in popularity ever since. A small dog, with a gentle nature this dog makes a fantastic family companion known for being playful, affectionate and great with kids. They do well in apartments and small homes as long as they get daily exercise.

Labradoodle
The Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever x Poodle) is another very popular medium sized ‘oodle’. They are very friendly and are known for being gentle with children, hence being great family pets! They can be boisterous as puppies, and will benefit from training early. Daily exercise is a must for this dog and they enjoy socialising with other dogs.
The Spoodle (Cocker Spaniel x Poodle) is a small ‘oodle’ which is another great family dog. They are very sociable and affectionate. Easily adapting to small homes or apartment living, as long as they receive daily exercise. They are highly intelligent, as are the majority of ‘oodle’s, and they have a high eagerness to please, making them easy to train.
Other popular dog breeds
If you’re not looking for an ‘oodle’ then other popular breeds for 2021 include the following:
The Golden Retriever is a favourite around the world, with a sweet and social nature which makes them the perfect family pet. They love to be involved in all family matters, whether indoors or outdoors, and have an intense desire to please.

French Bulldog
The French Bulldog or Frenchie is a compact and muscular breed which is playful and affectionate. They are lively, and are known for their very comical personality. Frenchie’s are easy-going, and another breed that has seen a rise in popularity recently.
The Australian Shepherd despite its name, is actually not Australian but is another popular dog breed. They are medium sized working dogs, with a strong herding instinct. It is recommended to train and socialise them early, as they need something to do, and without a purpose in life they can become bored and destructive. They are best in well-fenced yards, and make good family dogs as they are good protectors.
The Border Collie is known for its intelligence, perceptiveness and stubbornness, and is ideal for working and training. Border Collies can form very close bonds with their owner and family, but need plenty of time and exercise. They are devoted, determined and brave, but if not occupied can be very mischievous.
The German Shepherd is a large and loveable breed which is intelligent and easily trained. They form close bonds with their owners, and will want to be with them as much as possible. Loyalty and guarding are second nature to German Shepherds, and they are often chosen for tracking, rescue or personal protection work.

Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is a small and active toy dog, known for its ego. Looking like miniature foxes, they sparkle with character and friendliness. They are great family dogs, very loyal and energetic and make excellent guard dogs as they are very vocal.
The Pug is the other toy breed that is increasingly popular over the last few years. They are well known for their blunt noses, large eyes, wrinkly squashed face and tightly curled tail. Loyal, loving and affectionate Pugs are ideal family pets. They are rambunctious and playful dogs, sure to keep you laughing!
Did you find something that you liked from the list? If not there are hundreds of other breeds to choose from. One thing is certain though, a dog will certainly be a great companion through good times and bad!